- Travel
Designer hotels commemorate their environments in Cambodia’s 2nd city.
Released December 5, 2023
4 minutes checked out
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK)
Siem Reap’s hotel scene has evolved from the backpacker hostels of years past, with plenty of oasis-like options to retreat to after a day’s exploring in the Cambodian heat.
1. Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas
Set in the leafy French Quarter, it’s ideally situated: close enough to the city centre to be walking distance, far enough to be serenaded by chirping cicadas.
The place is peaceful, this boutique property is a stunning one. Designer and architect Bill Bensley has created a space that’s sophisticated yet whimsical: the black-and-white palette is punctuated by splashes of vibrant color, and there’s quirky, Cambodian-inspired art around every corner. The Shinta Mani’s suites are spread across three sibling houses, all with the Bensley touch, which share facilities–including a spa and wellness center–and flank a tranquil street. On the north side is the Shinta Mani Angkor; on the south sit the Bayon rooms, which overlook a courtyard pool; and there are 10 private Bensley Collection Pool Villas.
There’s variety, too, when it comes to dining options, with three bars and two restaurants. Kroya by Chef Chanrith–the hotel’s signature dining experience–serves an elevated take on Khmer cuisine, from butter-catfish soup to sautéed scallops with minced pork. Enjoy your dinner on a cushioned ‘swing table’ over a koi fish pond–and, if you’re left suitably inspired, learn the secrets of Cambodian cuisine at the restaurant’s Khmer cooking classes. From US$ 152 (£125).
Celebrating Siem Reap’s tree-shaded temples, Cambodian designer Hok Kang incorporated local flora into Treeline Urban Resort’s design. There are more nods to the surroundings: Cambodian art adorns the walls around the property, while locally crafted soft furnishings make its 48 rooms feel homely. From US$ 180 (£148).
The Jaya House’s super-sleek design–from the minimalist bedrooms to a chic pool area–was inspired by 1960s Cambodian modernism. Design features have been crafted from local wood and stone, and a piece by Dorset artist Sasha Constable–who lived in Cambodia for 17 years–sits in the lobby. All paintings have been commissioned from the Small Art School, a local NGO. From US$ 270 (£221).
Walking distance from the Old Market, this 1950s-inspired hotel straddles the urban and the wild. Vertical gardens cascade down every floor, making you feel like you’re in the depths of the jungle. The rooms blend modern detailing with traditional Cambodian artifacts. From US$ 206 (£168).
Published in the December 2023 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here
