From Work–stress To Seamstress

Nov. 19, 2010 - PRLog -- “Now I look forward to each day – my future is bright” said a beaming graduate as she accepted her award for top graduating student at the Hôtel de la Paix Sewing School in Siem Reap, Kingdom of Cambodia.

Ten months ago 19 young Khmer women between the ages of 16 and 25 embarked upon a vocational training program that has changed their lives.  No longer will they spend 16 grueling hours a day on a cramped brick manufacturing site in stifling heat to earn US$1 a day.  Thanks to the generosity of Hôtel de la Paix’s guests and its ‘Connecting’ program, to date 131 women have graduated and living a new life.

Based at Wat Damnak and overseen by a network of local monks from the Life and Hope Association (LHA), the Hôtel de la Paix Sewing School provides these vulnerable young women sewing skills, daily English lessons, basic life skills, as well as training on running micro businesses.  

Upon graduation from the program each student received a sewing machine and table, bicycle with carry bag and a starter kit so they may return to their village and start their own business – thereby being able to build a bright future and support themselves and their families

Guests of Hôtel de la Paix are invited to support the revival of Cambodian culture and people through customised community based activities and sponsorships.  Personalised tour of the Sewing Centre is included in the Community Package or available upon request.  Visit www.hoteldelapaixangkor.com or Hôtel de la Paix, Cambodia FaceBook fan page for further information.

Notes to editors:
Located in the heart of Siem Reap, close to the cultural and historic heart of Cambodia, Hôtel de la Paix is a luxury boutique hotel within easy reach of colourful markets and vibrant nightlife; and just a few kilometres from the breathtaking temple complexes of Angkor Wat, often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Khmer culture is celebrated in every aspect of style and service at Hôtel de la Paix, from the Meric Restaurant, with its seasonally inspired local cuisine to the Arts Lounge, which pays tribute to Cambodian artists; and Spa Indochine, which offers signature traditional treatments. Each of Hôtel de la Paix’s 107 spacious, beautifully appointed en suite rooms’ features chic interiors and contemporary furnishings complimented by intricate wall mountings and handcrafted lamps, creating a balance between modern design and traditional detailing.

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Hôtel de la Paix is operated by Ativa Hospitality, an experienced, Asian-based management company specialising in the development and management of independent deluxe boutique hotels. Ativa Hospitality currently manages properties in Thailand and Cambodia with project developments in Vietnam, Laos and India. For further information visit www.ativahospitality.com