Of course Siem Reap is best known for Angkor Wat and its satellite of temples, but I love popping up there from Phnom Penh to stay in one of the gorgeous resorts where I have spa treatments and find one of the new shops that seem to always be popping up. Here are some of my recommendations for the best hotels in town, where you can hop out of your Cassandra Harper cotton voile sightseeing/shopping/spa wear and slip into a silk caftan for afternoon poolside drinks.
Enjoy!!
I adore the Shinta Mani's unique style. It was designed by Bill Bensley, a Harvard educated designer who regularly appears on 'best designer' lists. From the black and white striped swimming pool, to the poolside orange bean bags, it's one of the most gorgeous hotels I've seen.
Highlights:
- Banana wrap body treatments in the rooftop spa
- Dinner on a striped swing lounge floating over a fish pond
Viroth's is all mid century modern pizazz and Palm Springs glamour.
Highlights:
- The beautifully appointed rooms with lovely attention to detail of art and textural fabrics.
- Mainly what I like most is the friendly service of the Viroth staff, truly making your stay a memorable one.
I haven't personally stayed at Hillocks, but I'm reliably informed it's a place for designer boutique hotels lovers who don't want to spend the earth.
Highlights:
- Enjoy the lost island vibe at the pool bar. The thatched roof bure and reclaimed stump chairs are like waking up in an episode of Fantasy Island.
Ah the Amansara. It's one of the original luxury resorts in Siem Reap and I am completely crazy about it. Think of zen luxury and then multiply that by 100 and that's what the Amansara is like.
Highlights:
- The incredible mid-century architecture
- The fabulous circular dining room and the gorgeous curved stone wall which create private spaces.
- The Aman Spa is also probably one of the most beautiful spas I have ever been to, a heavenly space to relax and unwind after a day at the temples.
The Park Hyatt is another gorgeous original. It's right in the centre of town, which might seem a little hectic, but when you get inside it's all peaceful and sumptuous.
Highlights:
- High tea in the lemon yellow Glasshouse Deli Patisserie
- Sink into the dusty pink velvet couches in the dark panelled Living Room bar for a pre-dinner glass of rosé (and then please have one for me!)