Amansara
Siem Reap

Amansara is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Boutique Hotels and Top 10 Aman Resorts in Asia.

When Aman Resorts took over the former guest house of King Sihanouk, they raised the bar for hotels in Siem Reap to extraordinary levels and it hasn’t been surpassed since. Built in the 1960s by Laurent Mondet, this exclusive retreat is the epitome of swinging sixties, pared back, pool-party cool.

Free form pools, large expansive lawns and oversized daybeds complement the attentive, friendly and discreet service, wonderful food and ideal location. The complimentary cakes at afternoon tea are also a delight! All 24 suites are spacious and open planned with a sunbathed private courtyard or a private pool (5 x 6 metres) and a free-standing bath, which is run for you daily. Natural light floods in through vast floor-to-ceiling windows and Aman’s killer combination of understated yet chic interior design adds a sophisticated touch to the bright but serene suites.

The circular Dining Room, with its soaring ceiling and shaded terrace, is the focal point of the property and serves a menu of both traditional Khmer and Western cuisines. Adjacent to this lies the main 17-metre state-of-the-art swimming pool, which provides a great spot in which to unwind after a busy day sightseeing, as does the tranquil Spa complete with holistic Khmer treatments. Or, you can simply take a soak in the comfort of your own private bath or pool if you prefer. For those feeling active there is a gym, tucked away amongst a thicket of bamboo trees, with Technogym equipment, so guests can work up an appetite before embarking on a street food tour of Siem Reap or dinner at Amansara’s Khmer Village wooden house in Angkor.

To add to its strengths, Amansara is located in a convenient spot in the cultural capital of Cambodia. Just a 10-minute drive away from the majestic Angkor Wat and a 15-minute drive away from Siem Reap airport, this property it is an ideal home away home for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site temples and Khmer culture. Complimentary outings to the temples surrounding Angkor Wat are conducted in the early mornings and late afternoons, utilising Amansara’s own fleet of remorks (moped-powered trishaws), each with its own Amansara driver and guide. Amansara really is a luxurious tranquil retreat and you will come away feeling part of their family.

To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson