Steve Lidgey
As general manager, I oversee our team in handcrafting unique journeys. We believe in letting our guests experience the destination by, where possible, giving them interaction with local people. Fortunately, in Cambodia, people are very open and eager to meet tourists making interaction easier. I believe travelers should also give something back to the place they are visiting - that can include just being friendly and communicating with local people. As a travel agent, we then help on the rest in order to do things in a responsible manner by supporting as many local people and projects as possible.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Cambodia is a small country so we cover the whole country for all budgets. We specialize in personalized travel, listening to our guests and creating unique itineraries according to the interests, budget and other requirements. Where possible we try to include local interaction, be that stopping at the side of the road to try local snacks with vendors to staying at local community homestays."
How did you get involved in travel?
"After I left college I worked in Germany for a hotel that was only open from Apr-Oct. Working hard I was able to save lots of money and travel to see the world. After visiting 50+ countries I decided to get a job that allows me to help others travel. First I worked back in my home country (England) before moving to Cambodia where I set up my own travel company.
The personal desire to travel is still there. However, instead of counting countries, I prefer to explore places I like in more depth and off the beaten track. "
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"Inevitably I should mention Cambodia. I was lucky enough to visit in 1994 and had Angkor Wat almost all to myself. It wasn't a happy time in Cambodia as the civil war was still going on and there was an air of sadness to the country. Many places were off limits and I hired a motorbike to visit the temples. It was educational more than enjoyable at that time.
Fast forward to 2011 when I next visited Cambodia for a tourism trade show. I was able to see the country developing as a destination with friendly, welcoming people. The dangers were gone and the natural happiness of the Cambodian people returned. I decided to look for work in travel and moved later that year to the capital, Phnom Penh."
Featured trips & expertise
Laos & Cambodia: Luang Prabang Overland to Siem Reap - 14 Days
This 14-day overland adventure explores the top highlights of two distinct countries, from the ethnic minority villages, plus the spectacular waterfalls and bucolic "4000 Islands" of the Mekong River, in Laos, to Cambodia's "floating villages" and the great temple complex of Angkor. Along the way, you'll get to explore by river boat, bicycle, and tuk-tuk, while gaining an immersion and intimate insight into the two nations' diverse cultures.
Feel Good Cambodia: Responsible Adventures from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap - 14 Days
Contribute to the betterment of Cambodian society on this feel-good 14-day active adventure that engages you with community projects, from an art school in Phnom Penh and an elephant-care project to restaurants that train young disadvantaged Cambodians for brighter futures. Along the way, you'll hike to waterfalls in the mountains, cycle to countryside villages, explore Angkor's temples by tuk-tuk, and visit the "floating villages" of Tonlé Sap Lake by boat.
Cambodia History & Nature: Phnom Penh, Mekong Dolphins & Angkor Temples – 10 Days
This 10-day itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking the splendor of Cambodian history, wildlife, and culture. Exploring by pedicab, you'll begin in Phnom Penh for the Royal Palace and National Museum before kayaking the Mekong River in search of Irrawaddy dolphins, then visiting the "floating villages" of Tonlé Sap Lake by boat. Finish your adventure in Siem Reap as you explore the magnificent temples of Angkor by tuk-tuk, accompanied by a local expert.
Angkor to the Mekong: Temples, Nature & Culture - 10 Days
Experience many of the quintessential highlights of Angkor and eastern Cambodia, from the temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom to the floating villages of Tonlé Sap, the wild elephants of Mondulkiri, and the endangered freshwater dolphins of the Mekong River. Along with a mix of outdoor activities and cultural tours, you'll visit a silk farm, Cham and Phnong indigenous villages, plus pepper and coffee plantations for a well-rounded and fulfilling adventure to remember.
Siem Reap to the Coast: Phnom Penh, Kampot & Kep - 10 Days
This itinerary covers a wide range of must-see places and unique excursions for an authentic taste of Cambodian history and culture. Over 10 days, you'll marvel at exploring Angkor's temples before visiting Tonlé Sap Lake's "floating villages" and spending two nights in Phnom Penh. From here, bicycle the countryside, explore the seafood markets around Kampot, and head to the seaside resort of Kep, where you'll complete the adventure.
Active Cambodia: Cycle Angkor & Battambang - 7 Days
Perfect for active travelers who enjoy cycling, this 7-day tour of Cambodia winds at an easy pace past the most majestic temples of Angkor and through the rice fields and idyllic countryside around Battambang. You'll learn about local culture and lifestyle, savor traditional Khmer cooking, and enjoy a performance of ancient Apsara dancing.
Recent trip reviews for Steve
A wonderful trip to Cambodia. A really great ...
Cambodia
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Dec 18 - Dec 31, 2022
A wonderful trip to Cambodia. A really great itinerary was planned before hand which went very smoothly. The choices and timings of itinerary were well suited for my friend and I. The guides and drivers were all very kind and helpful. They were also knowledgeable and enthusiastic. A really great trip which made for a lovely experience and memories, with highlights such as the Angkor temples and beach time at Koh Rong Samloem island. Many thanks for an excellent trip. read more
Dear Ali & Vicky,
Thanks for the wonderful review. It was a pleasure having you travel with us in Cambodia. I can see the itinerary ticked all the boxes for you, and I'm glad it went so smoothly. Thanks also for the appreciation of our guides and drivers. Last, but not least, it was nice to meet you during the visit to Apopo HeroRats in Siem Reap.
Wishing you both a fantastic 2023!
Steve.
A perfect trip for seekers
Cambodia
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Dec 17 - Dec 23, 2022
I had very memorable and cherished travels during a week long trip to Cambodia over December 2022. From planning to execution, Steve's support and advice was perfect. He understood what I was looking for as a solo traveler and kept my suggestions in mind. I am grateful for the attention to detail and very quick response time nearly always. After two months of planning, it was time to meet Steve before I wrapped up my journey, which was great!
The guides during my trip, both Sreypich and... read more
Dear Priti,
Thank you so much for your wholesome review! It's lovely to see that Cambodia more than satisfied your interests. I'm personally also pleased that you appreciated a couple of interesting places, Sosoro Museum and Sambor Prei Kuk, that many visitors do not have the time to visit.
It was also lovely to catch up with you in Siem Reap during your 'morning at leisure'.
Take care, and look forward to welcoming your family one day!
Steve.
Amazing Honeymoon in Cambodia!
Cambodia
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Dec 14 - Dec 18, 2022
kimkim did it again, putting together the perfect itinerary for us during a 5-day visit to Cambodia. We especially appreciated our guide, Hout Bunhak, who made the trip extra special and made us feel like family. The travel partner, Travel Asia a la cart was excellent! Our hotel was perfect for our preferences. We hope to return to Cambodia in the future and will certainly utilize kimkim to arrange our next Cambodian adventure! read more
Hi Jon & Kelsey. Thanks for your visit and for blessing Cambodia with your honeymoon visit. It was also lovely to meet you both on the first evening.
I'll share the glowing feedback with our guide and all the suppliers involved. Thanks again and I look forward to your return!
Cambodia review
Cambodia
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Nov 7 - Nov 11, 2022
This is the second time I have used KimKim, and have been extremely impressed with the whole process of how the itinerary is managed and customised to my requirements .
I found the whole booking process managed very smoothly .
Secondly the guides were exceptionally , knowledgeable and flexible and made it very comfortable for us .
Steve was amazing he ensured we were kept informed , meticulous administration and also put together a list of restaurants that would be suitable to our... read more
Dear Manjit,
Thank you for the wonderful review and also the excellent feedback. I am so happy you are pleased with the whole process. Also, it's especially encouraging that we chose the correct guides for you. We love to customise trips according to your needs. Thanks for choosing Kimkim and we very much look to giving you a memorable journey in another part of the world!
Two weeks in Cambodia
Cambodia
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Jun 24 - Jul 6, 2022
I had an incredible time in Cambodia. I 100% recommend working with Steve (Travel Asia A la Carte). Each leg of the trip was well organized and accounted for. Our local guides (especially Kanha) showed us unique parts of their country outside of the standard tourist traps. Through this, we felt that our funds spend supported local communities. All of the hotels and experiences exceeded my expectations. This was my first trip to Asia and it has left me wanting to return to explore such an... read more
Hi Amir. Thanks for visiting Cambodia and using our services. Glad to hear you had a wonderful time and appreciated the way we provide services that give something back to the destination. It was also great to have a little chat whilst you were in Siem Reap!
An unforgettable experience.
Cambodia
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Jun 24 - Jul 6, 2022
Cambodia was incredible. I took this trip with my long time friend and had pretty high expectations. With the help of KimKim and Steve, (our appointed local guide) this trip completely blew them out of the water.
Kahna our guide for the first week was absolutely incredible, going above and beyond to explain the nuances of culture and history to us while still keeping us excited and entertained. We were equipped with the information and understanding to complete the trip knowing how to... read more
Thanks Carlos for the glowing review! It was a pleasure to have you travel with us in Cambodia and it's clear you loved the country and its people. We've shared your comments with our guide, Kanha both in person and online. Please let your friends and family know Cambodia is a very authentic destination with lovely, welcoming people. Thanks again.
Laos and Cambodia for the Holidays!
Cambodia
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Dec 23 - Dec 30, 2019
We had the most amazing experience in Laos and Cambodia thanks to Steve at KimKim travel. He planned everything exactly like we wanted. Luang Prabang was phenomenal. Such an incredible country and our guide Van made it perfect. His english was excellent and he personally made a point for us to have a great time and get a real feeling for the uniqueness of his country. We loved playing games with the locals and eating at "locals only" establishments!
Cambodia was a perfect balance of... read more
Hi Terri,
Many thanks for the glowing feedback.
It was a pleasure to have lovely guests like you wanting to experience the real destination and 'go local' for authentic experiences. Thanks for travelling with us to Laos and Cambodia.
Cambodia Itinerary
Cambodia
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Oct 1 - Oct 15, 2019
It has been an amazing experience visiting Cambodia for a two week period..
To start with a lot of communication was exchanged with Steve and he was quick in understanding what experience we were looking for and he soon suggested the itinerary. With some changes we were assured of a great time and could not wait to get there.
Dy our guide for the Siem Reap circuit and Sreylen for the Phnom Penh circuit were knowledgeable and took care of the plan. The drivers of both circuits were brilliant... read more
Thanks Bharat & Hansa for this glowing review. All at Travel Asia a la carte work hard on every booking to ensure we deliver memorable experiences. I will share your comments with Sreylen and Dy and make sure the drivers and operations team are aware of your satisfaction.
Best regards from a sunny Siem Reap.
Steve.
Cambodia Trip
Cambodia
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Jun 16 - Jun 22, 2019
Steve and his team took such great care of us throughout the trip! Our two guides, Pich and Dy, were wonderful as they helped navigate us around Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Not only did they show us the sites but they were helpful in recommending places to visit as well. The itinerary crafted by Steve was well thought out and was very accommodating to my family since we could only walk a few miles per day. I highly recommend using this agency for any future Cambodia travels!
Hi Sheela,
Many thanks for taking the time to review our services. That really helps future travellers.
We were pleased to welcome you to the Kingdom of Wonder and it seems like both you and your parents have happy memories. Do let us know if you ever plan to return.
Best regards from a sunny Siem Reap in rainy season!
Steve.
Cambodia
Cambodia
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Feb 1 - Feb 11, 2019
It was a beautiful trip and the guides, such as Dao in Laos and Mak in Siem Reap went out of their way to provide us with all the experiences we had hope to have. Going to alms in Laos, having 2 hours with a meditation master in Hanchey Bamboo Resort, and visiting Angkor Thom were some of the highlights. While in Siem Reap we stayed at Jaya House. We have traveled extensively and there are few hotels that we have appreciated as much as Jaya House. Thank you for choosing that hotel. ... read more
Hi Joy,
Many thanks for taking the time to review our services. I am very pleased they met your satisfaction. I will share the comments with the guides.
There was nothing too unusual about your requests. All very manageable and we pride ourselves on doing customised tours. We believe that is how travel should be...changed to meet each individuals needs.
Wishing you all the best and it would be a pleasure to welcome you back to the Far East.
Best regards, Steve.
Authentic Cambodia
Cambodia
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Feb 4 - Feb 13, 2019
My wife and I spent a wonderful 10 days in Cambodia in Feb 2019 on a trip designed by Steve to see as much of the "authentic Cambodia" as we could in the limited time we had in-country. In short, to say that we enjoyed the trip would be an understatement. Steve's local knowledge and expert planning made all the difference - we hadn't been to Cambodia before so his suggestions and recommendations were absolutely invaluable. Our guides (Reya in Phnom Penh and Dy in Battambang / Siem Reap) and... read more
Hi Eric.
Thanks for your kind words. We worked hard to give you and Pamela a fabulous trip and it paid off. Of course it does help you told us about your interests and preferences. That makes the planning a lot easier.
I will share your lovely comments with our guides and drivers. They are the hardest working of all.
It would be a pleasure to welcome you again to Cambodia.
Travelling from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh then Siahnookville
Cambodia
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Dec 18 - Dec 24, 2018
This was an absolute pleasure from planning right through to the experience, which raged from navigating the crowded terraces of Angkor Wat to an impromptu game of "hacky-sack" Cambodian style at night on the riverbank in Phnom Penh. Our principle guide, Sarun, was a wealth of historical information and our night food Vespa Adventures tour was a highlight. The local specialists were Travel Asia a la carte and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone who wants a tailor-made tour. Just make sure you include the Phare Circus - a highlight of our two weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia.
Hi Jimmy & Sue,
Thanks for travelling with Travel Asia a la carte. It was a pleasure to meet you in Siem Reap and I'm glad to hear that the tour was an 'absolute pleasure'. The information received during the tour planning about your likes and dislikes was exactly what we needed to plan the perfect trip.
Please share with your friends and family the wonders of Cambodia and hopefully they will visit us someday.
Happy New Year for 2019 and thanks again.