Showcasing Cambodia to the World: A Conversation with Serva Travel Founder, Savath Mao
At Cambodia Lifestyle, we love connecting with visionary entrepreneurs who are shaping the way Cambodia is experienced by travelers. One such entrepreneur is Savath Mao, the founder and Managing Director of Serva Travel. His passion for his homeland and extensive experience in the tourism industry have led him to create a luxury travel company with a mission—offering unforgettable experiences while ensuring local communities benefit.
Q: What inspired you to start Serva Travel?
My story isn’t just about travel; it’s about my deep love for Cambodia and Southeast Asia, a perfect opportunity, and making a real difference. Over 18 years, I worked in tourism, leading tours and managing operations. I saw firsthand how travelers enjoyed Angkor Wat and the local markets, but they often missed the real story—the local people, our rich culture, and how tourism truly affects our communities. Luxury travel, especially, felt disconnected. I knew we could do better. I wanted to create a travel experience that was both luxurious and meaningful, one that helped preserve our heritage and benefited the people who make this region so special.
The time was right. People were starting to want more than just sightseeing; they craved real connections and experiences. My time at Intrepid Travel gave me the experience and knowledge to build something new. And most importantly, I felt a responsibility to create a company that offered amazing trips and helped our communities.
Q: How has Serva Travel grown since its inception?
I established the company because I saw a gap in the luxury travel market in Southeast Asia. Traditional luxury tours often overlook the authentic cultural experiences and the positive impact tourism can have on local communities. The original idea was to combine high-end accommodations and services with meaningful cultural immersion and sustainable practices. My goal was to bridge the gap between luxury travel and responsible tourism, ensuring that local communities benefit.
With my experience in the tourism industry, particularly at Intrepid Travel, I built Serva Travel on the foundation of authenticity, sustainability, and community engagement. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to these values, creating immersive experiences that transform both travelers and the communities they visit.
Q: What is your long-term vision for Serva Travel?
Serva Travel has been operational for nearly two years, but it is built on nearly two decades of experience. My dream is to redefine luxury travel in Cambodia and beyond by creating immersive and transformative experiences that benefit both travelers and local communities. I want to protect the region’s beauty and culture while empowering those who live here.
The timing felt right because travelers are looking for deeper connections, more meaningful experiences, and responsible tourism. My love for Cambodia, my industry experience, and my desire to create something truly impactful all played a role in launching Serva Travel. Some of our biggest highlights have been witnessing the impact of our experiences—seeing travelers deeply moved and knowing we are creating positive change within local communities. As we move forward, our focus remains on sustainable growth and reinforcing our commitment to responsible travel.
Q: What makes Serva Travel unique?
The best thing about Serva Travel is our commitment to meaningful luxury. We blend high-end travel with authentic cultural experiences and sustainable practices. We prioritize integrity, ethics, and a culture of respect for local communities and the environment. Our goal is to create transformative travel experiences that leave a lasting positive impact on both visitors and the people of Cambodia.
Q: Why should travelers choose Serva Travel?
Serva Travel fills the gap between traditional luxury travel and responsible, culturally immersive experiences. We offer unique opportunities to connect with local people, learn about their culture, and contribute to their well-being. Our focus on sustainable travel and community engagement makes us a compelling choice for travelers seeking experiences that go beyond sightseeing. We ensure that every journey is not only luxurious but also meaningful and impactful.
Q: How does Serva Travel benefit local communities and diversify Cambodia’s tourism offerings?
We work directly with local communities to ensure that tourism benefits them through employment, fair trade practices, and community development projects. We also diversify Cambodia’s tourism landscape by offering authentic cultural experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing. By focusing on sustainable travel, we help protect the environment while creating economic opportunities for local people.
Q: What keeps you motivated to do this work?
My deep love for Cambodia is what drives me. I want to share this region’s beauty and culture with the world while ensuring its preservation. I’m passionate about creating a legacy of positive impact—one that allows both travelers and locals to benefit from tourism in a responsible and meaningful way.
At Serva Travel, we don’t just create trips; we create stories, connections, and lasting memories that make a difference. For anyone looking to experience Cambodia in a way that is luxurious yet responsible, we are here to make that journey unforgettable.
Contact Serve Travel in Cambodia:
Company Name: Serva Travel Co., Ltd.
Address: Krous Village, Svaydangkum, Siem Reap, Cambodia.Â
Phone: +855 (0) 61 310 001
Email: info@servatravel.com
Website: www.servatravel.com
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 08.00 to 18.00
 | Cambodia |
 | https://www.cambodialifestyle.com |
 | +855 9 678 01791 |
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
