Amansara, Siem Reap

Location 

Amansara, an amalgam of the Sanskrit words aman (peace) and apsara (the heavenly nymphs of Hindu mythology), was once the guesthouse of King Sihanouk, and sits proudly in a garden compound on the edge of Siem Reap, just ten minutes from the entrance to the temples of Angkor. Designed by French architect Laurent Mondet in 1962 for King Sihanouk to accommodate visitors, the modernist building has retained the feeling of a private home, picking up awards for its levels of service and quickly establishing itself as the hotel of choice for discerning travellers looking for a taste of authentic Khmer culture.

Accommodation 

The hotel’s 24 suites are all are similar in design with sharp, crisp lines, low-slung minimalist Le Corbusier-inspired furniture, and a good balance of proportion. There are two types of suite on offer, Suites and Pool Suites. Suites feature king-size beds and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a light-filled garden with a cushioned banquette. Bathrooms contain twin vanities with makeup mirrors, a large tub to soak in and a separate shower and toilet. To truly indulge, opt for one of the 12 Pool Suites with private plunge pools measuring six by five metres. Thoughtful touches like fresh limes and homemade cookies in the complimentary mini bars all add to the sense of being pampered. 

Dining

The Dining Room is located near the main swimming pool, and has soaring seven-metre ceilings and a shaded terrace that’s the focal point of the hotel. The menu features traditional Khmer and Western dishes made from the freshest of seasonal produce. The dining area also includes a walk-in wine and cheese cellar, as well as a casual lounging area where you can help yourself to freshly baked goods. 

Facilities 

There is a range of facilities on offer at the hotel. The library has a wide selection of coffee table books, travel guides, novels, magazines and daily newspapers along with complimentary internet access. There’s also a roof terrace where you can relax, enjoy evening drinks or private dinners, or practise yoga. The spa features four treatment rooms and a menu of traditional Cambodian treatments. To cool off after a day exploring Angkor’s UNESCO-listed temples, dive into the hotel’s 17-metre pool or take a turn in the 25-metre lap pool. A huge range of excursions is also available, from cultural tours and Khmer cooking classes to helicopter tours, cycling trips and excursions to South East Asia’s largest lake, Tonle Sap.