Cowboy is a beloved tuk-tuk driver in Siem Reap, Cambodia, known for taking guests beyond the temples — bringing them to local villages to donate school supplies to children in need. He supports his wife and two young kids, but recently lost access to the van he used for airport transfers, a key part of his income. Cowboy is hoping to raise $2,000 for a down payment so he can secure a bank loan to purchase a used 2011 Hyundai Grand Starex van and continue working. Any amount raised beyond that will help him get closer to fully owning his own van, which costs about $15,000.

ABOUT COWBOY:

Hello — we’re Mike and Angela, Americans living in Thailand.

During our many trips to Siem Reap, Cambodia, we befriended an extraordinary tuk-tuk driver known as the Cambodian Cowboy. We first saw him on YouTube (check out Paddy Doyle’s video below) and we've used him every visit since — probably ten times by now!

You might remember Cowboy too: the guy in the cowboy hat singing Country Roads, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, and AC/DC through his tuk-tuk speakers — karaoke mic in hand — turning every ride into a rolling concert.

But Cowboy is more than just a driver. He’s built something truly special into his tours: without any pressure, he takes guests to a small shop to buy notebooks and pencils, then drives to remote villages where you hand out supplies to children in need. It’s a simple, unforgettable experience — one that captures the spirit of giving and travel at its best.

Cowboy and his wife were both orphaned. He was even enslaved as a young man before escaping into the jungle and finding refuge in a monastery. Today, they’re raising two young children with little means but enormous hearts — building a humble life on hard work, music, and generosity.

COWBOY'S CHALLENGE:

Siem Reap’s new airport is now an hour outside the city — too far for a tuk-tuk. Cowboy had been borrowing a van to pick up guests, but that van was sold a few days ago, suddenly leaving him without a way to work.

He’s found a 2011 Hyundai Grand Starex that costs about $15,000. If he can raise $2,000, the bank will finance the rest — but the more we can raise, the closer he’ll get to owning it outright and avoiding heavy interest.

Angela and I are contributing the first $500 to get things started, and Cowboy will be reaching out to his past guests — people like you — who’ve laughed, sung, and handed out books alongside him.

If you’ve ever met Cowboy, you already know what a kind and joyful soul he is. Please help him get back “on the road again.” Every contribution — large or small — will help this wonderful man keep providing for his family and spreading happiness to travelers and children alike.