In 2016, I arrived in Cambodia with an open heart and a sense of adventure, like many travelers passing through. I didn’t plan to stay. But the culture, the people, and the energy of the country quickly pulled me in.
As a solo woman, I chose to make Cambodia my home and started building a life with purpose.
After working as an architect, I took a leap in 2017 and opened my first hostel in Battambang. It was challenging, hands-on, and far from easy, but it gave birth to a clear mission: create meaningful job opportunities for local youth and build places where travelers and locals genuinely connect.
In 2022, following the Covid period, I expanded with a second hostel in Siem Reap. The team grew, the vision sharpened, and The Place Hostels started to feel like more than just accommodation, it became a community.
Last November 2025, we completed the circle with the opening of The Place Hostel & Garden Bar in Phnom Penh: a vibrant space designed to gather, share stories, and experience modern Cambodia with soul.
Today, The Place Hostels operates three locations across Cambodia and proudly employs around 40 local team members. Each hostel is rooted in the same philosophy: honest hospitality, strong local teams, and spaces that feel alive.
Emma, Founder & CEO of The Place Hostels
At The Place Hostels, we’re more than just beds and breakfast: we’re a crew of passionate locals and long-term expat who believe that travel should feel like coming home, wherever you land. Our mission? To create soulful hostels that blend Cambodian hospitality with the old-school backpacker spirit: affordable, friendly, full of character, and deeply connected to the local scene.
To create soulful hostels that blend Cambodian hospitality with old-school backpacker spirit: affordable, friendly, full of character, and deeply connected to the local scene.
Originally from France, Emma fell hard for Cambodia’s charm over a decade ago. With roots in hospitality and a love for culture, she opened The Place to be the kind of hostel she always wanted to find: affordable, warm, authentic, and just a little bit magical. She’s the driving force behind every detail. Her favorite part of the job? Talking with guests over coffee and seeing her team grow.
The heart and soul of the operation. Mony knows every inch of The Place from staffing to supplies to solving last-minute issues with a smile. He’s been with the project since day one and has helped turn vision into reality, step by step. Loyal, kind, and endlessly resourceful, Mony is that calm, capable presence that keeps everything moving smoothly across all locations.
Bunna is a local guy born and raised in Siem Reap who knows the city like the back of his hand. Friendly, approachable, and always ready to help, he makes sure guests experience the best of the temple town. From sharing local tips to creating a welcoming vibe around the hostel, Bunna helps make every stay feel easy and memorable.
Nold is from Battambang and was previously part of our team before returning as the new Manager for our Phnom Penh location. With his strong management knowledge and experience in hospitality, he plays a key role in making sure the energy is just right — relaxed, social, and stylish. Whether it’s setting up the bar by the pool or checking in late-night arrivals, he makes sure every guest feels seen and welcomed.
Quiet and thoughtful, Sak brings a peaceful energy to our Battambang hostel. He’s a master of the slow-travel mindset and deeply connected to his community. He helps guests find hidden gems in the countryside and always has the best food tips. The rooftop at sunset? That’s his favorite part of the day.