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Six-course Khmer cuisine for a good cause

Aniba, a Singaporean fine-dining restaurant, collaborates with Chef Mariya Un Noun and NGO Smiling Gecko, founded by Hannes Schmid, to offer a six-course Khmer cuisine experience. A portion of the proceeds supports Smiling Gecko’s mission to provide education and vocational training in rural Cambodia.The menu, crafted by Chef Mariya and Aniba’s executive chef Anas Shami, showcases authentic Khmer flavors with modern twists. The event takes place on January 21st and 22nd at Aniba. Explore the full article to discover the unique culinary experience and its impact on a good cause. Read...

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Contributing to the Restoration of Cambodia’s Culture and Future

Explore the transformative impact of sustainable tourism in Cambodia with Hannes Schmid, Founder of Smiling Gecko Farmhouse Resort & Spa, as featured in Asian Journey – Singapore Magazine. Dive into the heart of Smiling Gecko’s mission, providing education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty.  Discover how your stay at The Farmhouse Resort & Spa contributes to this noble cause, offering stylish accommodation, tantalizing food, and a sanctuary spa rooted in traditional Khmer architecture. Immerse yourself in a unique cultural experience, knowing your...

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The Incredible Tales Of Brilliant Madman Hannes Schmid—Adventurer, Photographer & Painter

Hannes Schmid’s journey from a Swiss photographer to a humanitarian is a tale of resilience and compassion. Known for his daring adventures, including surviving a cannibal tribe in Indonesia, Schmid’s life took a significant turn when he encountered the plight of exploited Cambodian children. This led to the creation of Smiling Gecko, an NGO aimed at providing education and sustainable living to impoverished communities.Within this transformative project lies the Farmhouse Resort & Spa, which houses our Restaurant Un. Explore the full story to learn more about Hannes Schmid’s...

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Daily Cuts – Helping underprivileged women and children in Cambodia

Explore the untold story behind Smiling Gecko, Farmhouse Resort & Spa, and Restaurant Un with founder Hannes Schmid, a renowned photographer of rockstars like Freddie Mercury and Mick Jagger, as he shares his remarkable transition from capturing iconic images to championing the cause of underprivileged women and children in Cambodia. In a revealing interview on Daily Cuts from CNA938, Hannes shares how a pivotal moment with Bob Geldof inspired his mission with Smiling Gecko, the NGO behind Farmhouse Resort & Spa and Restaurant Un. Join hosts Lance Alexander and Daniel Martin as...

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Collaborative Gastronomic Triumph: Mariya Un Noun’s Inspirational Journey

Mariya Un Noun’s remarkable journey from Cambodian slums to culinary prestige is a story of triumph and inspiration. During her time in Switzerland, Mariya crossed paths with Tino Staub at the “Widder” hotel in Zurich and forged a profound bond. Despite differences, their collaboration bloomed, with Tino mentoring Mariya while she shared her Khmer culinary treasures. Together, they embarked on a flavorful journey, with Mariya introducing Tino to Kampo Pepper, enriching his culinary repertoire. Their friendship transcends borders, with Tino visiting Cambodia and Mariya returning...

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Mariya’s seamless blend of Khmer heritage with European flair

Mariya Un Noun’s remarkable journey from Cambodian slums to culinary prestige is a story of triumph and inspiration. Mariya’s talent impressed renowned chefs like Andreas Caminada, who admired her fusion of Khmer and European cuisine. Today, Mariya serves as a dedicated advocate for Smiling Gecko, showcasing her Nouvelle Khmer Cuisine as head chef of esteemed dining establishments Restaurant Un and Chef’s Table. Chef Andrea teams up with Mariya, blending their culinary talents in a friendly and exciting kitchen collaboration. Side by side, they’re cooking up a storm,...

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Exceptional chefs from Green Pearls® hotels worldwide

A standout achievement of our project is the inspiring tale of Chef Mariya Un Noun. Chef Mariya Un Noun’s rise from Phnom Penh’s slums to executive chef at Smiling Gecko embodies the essence of inspiration. With minimal formal education, her extraordinary talent and perseverance took her to Switzerland, transforming Cambodian cuisine with a European twist. Championed by culinary luminary Andreas Caminada, Mariya’s journey is a shining example of culinary arts as a vehicle for change. Read Full Article

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Life is about transformation Trust in Transformation – michelin star

Enfold the transformative journey of Smiling Gecko, where a small hotel project blossomed into a thriving farmhouse serving over 100 guests daily. Witness the inspiring tale of Mariya Un Noun, a culinary talent supported by Michelin-starred chef Andreas Caminada. Experience the power of transformation and trust where future of hundreds children in Kampong District are transformed Read Full Article

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Behind the Scenes – Green Chefs (Part 2) — Michelin star

Chef Mariya Un Noun’s culinary art at Farmhouse Smiling Gecko radiates passion and innovation. Elevating Cambodia’s food scene since 2015, her expertise fuses local and European tastes, crafting a unique dining experience. Mariya’s intuitive cooking not only enriches Cambodian cuisine but also highlights her remarkable path to gastronomic excellence. Read Full Article

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Cowboys & Rockstars Fund Farmhouse Smiling Gecko for Sustainable Community in Cambodia 

In an extraordinary alliance of Cowboys & Rockstars, the Farmhouse Smiling Gecko has emerged as a beacon of sustainability in Cambodia, thanks to their funding efforts. This unique partnership has created a culinary haven within a luxury hotel that serves innovative dishes while championing the cause of building a sustainable community. Read Full Article

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