CANADIAN-STYLE IN CAMBODIA

Three humanitarian workers from Greater Toronto have created what they say is the first and only hotel of its kind in Cambodia — it’s non-profit,

Three humanitarian workers from Greater Toronto have created what they say is the first and only hotel of its kind in Cambodia — it’s non-profit. The Green Leaf Boutique Hotel in Siem Reap is the brainchild of Amir Azimi, an international disaster response worker; Simon Scaduto, a government employee, and Damien Daniel, a transportation company worker.

Back story: Azimi says the cofounders fell for Cambodia while volunteering. They leased a hotel, renovated it, and opened it Nov. 1, 2015, as a non-profit (technically, as a charity, since Cambodia doesn’t have nonprofit status). Profits will go to the local orphanage where they volunteer, an education program and a water purification project.

What’s in a name: The hotel is named for the Moringa oleifera tree. Some believe the seeds can be used to purify water for developing countries.

Buzzworthy: The Green Leaf has hired and trained 12 people, most from the nearby orphanage where the hotel’s co-founders volunteer.

Next: The hotel has hired Irina Andreea from Toronto to be the yo- ga, mediation and nutritional instructor. They plan to take over land next door to build a yoga/meditation centre, and hope to start managing the orphanage and build a new school on its grounds.

á Words of wisdom: “The hotel is a very intimate place where we almost become friends and family with our guests,” Azimi says. “People get to feel good about their stay. They know their money goes to a good cause.”

Make it happen: The Green Leaf has a pool, restaurant/bar and 10 rooms. Prices are seasonal and range from $35 to $150 (U.S.). High season is October to March. jbain@thestar.ca

GREEN LEAF BOUTIQUE HOTEL PHOTOS The Green Leaf has 10 rooms. Eight are in the poolside building and two are upstairs in the taller building. The hotel features thatched roofs.

Staff like Bunthy were raised in the local orphanage that will benefit from the non-profit Green Leaf hotel.

The restaurant and bar offer up cool drinks and both Khmer and Western food.

The pool, shown here at night, is a focal point for guests.