I recently enjoyed a wonderful holiday in Thailand (home to my favorite hotel in the world: Soneva Kiri) and the Kingdom of Cambodia. You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: Etihad Airways Airbus A380 First Class Apartment from Paris to Abu Dhabi
• Review: Etihad Airways Dreamliner B787 Business Class from Abu Dhabi to Bangkok
• Review: Waldorf Astoria Bangkok, Thailand
• Review: Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang, Cambodia
• Review: A visit to the Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia (today)
• Review: Alila Villas Koh Russey, Cambodia
• Review: Bensley Collection, Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia
• Review: Cathay Dragon Airbus A320 Business Class from Phnom Penh to Hong Kong
• Review: Cathay Pacific First Class Boeing 777 from Hong Kong to Frankfurt

Today (27 May, 2020): a tour of the Angkor Wat temple complex (Cambodia).

Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Asia’s most famous archeological site and the principle draw card to the Kingdom of Cambodia for many savvy tourists from around the globe. Angkor stood once at the center of the mighty Khmer empire (9th to 15th century) and grew to become the largest known pre-industrial settlement, spanning a site roughly equivalent to nowadays Paris. The site comprises dozens of iconic temples, including Angkor Wat itself (with its world-famous silhouette, best observed at sunrise); Bayon (a temple famous for its smiling, serene faces carved onto gigantic towers) and Ta Prohm (a magnificent temple ruin engulfed by the jungle).

Angkor Wat features in my top 10 list of the most fabulous archaeological sites in the world.

Have you ever visited Angkor Wat? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube clip & slideshow):

• History
• Best season to visit
• Best time of the day to visit: morning or afternoon?
• Buying tickets
• What temples to visit?
• How to explore the temples: by car, tuktuk or bicycle?
• Visitor code of conduct
• What hotel to stay at?
• Photos

ANGKOR WAT: HISTORY

Angkor was once the capital of the Khmer Empire, which held sway over territory that includes present-day Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and southern Vietnam. The beginning of the era of the Khmer Empire is conventionally dated to 802 when King Jayavarman II declared himself chakravartin (“king of the world” or “king of kings”). A large series of migrations of Thai people in the 13th and 14th centuries accelerated the downfall of the Khmer Empire, culminating in the Thai Kingdom’s seizure of Angkor in 1431. The remnants of the Khmer people migrated, with the capital moving to Phnom Penh; the empire then faded away, absorbed by newcomers.

In the late 9th century, the ruler Yasovarman founded Angkor, the original name of which was Yashodharapura or “glory-bearing city.” Historians believe that at the time, Angkor was the largest city in the world, rivaling the modern sprawling metropolis of Paris in size. The Angkor temples were constructed at a time when the Khmer Empire reached its peak in terms of cultural and artistic achievements. It was believed that the Khmer king had a divine role, and an appropriate temple had to be constructed by each king to consecrate the symbolic relationship between ruler and divinity. When the king died, his successor initiated construction of a new state temple, which was always bigger and grander than the one built by his predecessor, dedicating it to the religion of his choice. These massive stone temples withstood the test of time as testament to the Khmer Empire’s power a millennium later.

ANGKOR WAT: BEST SEASON TO VISIT

The Kingdom of Cambodia experiences four annual seasons:

• The cool and dry season– which lasts from November to February – is considered the best time to visit Cambodia, with plenty of sunshine and day temperatures in the high 70s°F to low 80s°F (26°C-29°C). Sporadic showers may occur in the cool season but are infrequent events.
• The hot and dry season lasts from March to May, with humidity reaching uncomfortable levels and temperatures averaging in the upper 90s Fahrenheit (mid-30s Celsius). Although this period usually remains dry, rains may gather force in the month of May, which is more of a transition period towards the wet season.
• The hot and wet season, which lasts from June to August, is marked by daily heavy downpours, which bring relief for the sticky, humid weather. The days often start sunny, with showers mostly occurring in the (late) afternoon or evening, lasting for 3 to 4 hours.
• The cool and wet season occurs in September and October and sees the return of more comfortable temperatures, although it’s probably the worst time to visit Cambodia because the torrential rains are coming to a peak, often bringing floods and making roads impassable. It’s not all bad news since low visitor numbers means great hotel deals.

The best time to visit Angkor Wat coincides with the northern hemisphere’s winter period, November through February. Days are assurdedly sunny and warm. From March on, the temperature picks up and it can get unbearably hot during the day for a comfortable temple visit; avoid these months unless you can handle heat and suffocating humidity as you explore the ancient temples. From May until October, there is a high risk of showery weather, which may ruin a visit to the temples since most of the temples are open-air.

No matter what time of the year you visit Angkor Wat, always be armed with mosquito repellent, sunscreen, good walking shoes, a hat and bottles of water.

ANGKOR WAT: BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Angkor Wat is the early morning for three reasons:

• It gives you an opportunity to witness Angkor Wat’s iconic sunrise. Indeed, watching the reflections of the towers of Angkor War in the water, with beautiful oranges and reds peeking out behind the temple complex, is unique travel experience. However, keep in mind that you’ll have to share this experience with hundreds of other tourists who often behave unruly in order to take the best photo spot. Also, the iconic photo of Angkor Wat’s sunrise is slightly deceiving in a way that it gives you the impression that there is a large water party in front of the temple, while there are only two small ponds (literally surrounded by thick lines of tourists taking photos).
• Most importantly, the weather is still cool in the morning. From March to May, it simply gets too hot during the day for a visit (you will be longing for the comfort of your airconditioned hotel room). During the rainy season (June to November), most rain also falls in the afternoon, giving you the best chance for a dry visit in the morning
• Although there are a lot of travelers packing together during the sunrise at Angkor Wat itself, most of them seem to vanish after sunrise, so early morning is still the best time for a peaceful and tranquil visit to most temples in the area.

ANGKOR WAT: BUYING TICKETS

Entrance tickets for a visit to Angkor Wat can only be purchased from the official ticket booth on the road that connects Siem Reap city to the archeological site (online tickets are not available yet)  The ticket office is open from 5.00 AM to 5.30 PM every day, and you can choose from 3 types of tickets:

• 1-day pass – $37 USD
• 3-day pass – $62 USD (has to be used within a week)
• 7-day pass – $72 USD (has to be used within a month)

Some things to keep in mind:

• Cash and VISA cards are accepted to buy the ticket.
• Tickets purchased from a third party are not valid, so don’t buy Angkor Wat tickets or tours from unauthorized people.
• Always carry your ticket with you; in most temples the security staff will check tickets at the entrance of the ruins.
• The tickets are personal with your name and photo on it.
• You cannot buy the pass in advance. You can only purchase it on the day of your visit or from 5 pm for the next day.
• Many people want to watch the sunrise, so there is often a queue at the ticket office in the early morning. And yes, some people have missed the best light for a photo because of these long waiting times. So if you want to watch the sunrise and are a passionate photographer, you may consider purchasing your ticket one day in advance (after 5 pm).

HOW MUCH TIME TO SPEND AT ANGKOR WAT? WHAT TEMPLES TO VISIT?

Although travelers with tight itineraries in Southeast Asia try to squeeze in as many sights as they can in a day, remember that the Angkor complex is actually the largest religious monument in the world and that the entire site features dozens of temples! You’re going to need more time than you think to not end up rushing around. A one-day visit to Angkor Wat allows you to see the highlights of most famous temples but not more. Three days are enough to visit all the major temples and a few minor ones. Seven days are sufficient to really explore the major temples, visit many of the minor structures, experience some activities and take time to explore the countryside and villages as well.

That said, if you are not a culture of history buff like my, you can comfortably visit Angkor Wat’s three most famous temple in half a day:

• Angkor Wat is the most iconic temple and the largest religious monument ever constructed. It means “Buddhist Monastery in the city”. It was built by Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple, dedicated to the god Vishnu, a member of the holy trinity in Hinduism. It was later subtly converted into a Bhuddist temple, and many of its carvings and statues of Hindu deities were replaced by Buddhist shrines. Angkor Wat remained a Bhuddist temple into the 1800s but although never truly abandoned, the temple fell gradually into disuse and disrepair. The French restored Angkor Wat in the early 1900s. Miraculously, Angkor Wat only sustained minor damage during the Khmer Rouge regime.
• Bayon lies in the heart of Angkor Thom, the last capital city of the Khmer Empire, a short 10 min tuktuk ride from Angkor Wat. Built in the 12th century, Bayon is also called Jayavarman’s Temple, in honor of the king who ordered its construction. Bayon is most famous for its giant stone faces which adorn its towers (there are 54 towers of four faces each, totaling 216 faces) and for its epic bas-reliefs, which depict the daily life of the Khmers at the time of Angkor’s grandeur.
• For most visitors, Ta Prohm is Angkor’s most photogenic site, with tall trees growing out of the ruins and intertwining with the stonework. Ta Prohm was built by king Jayavarman VII and served as a Buddhist monastery and university; the site was once home to 12,500 people (including 18 high priests and 615 dancers). Ta Prohm is often dubbed the Tomb Raider templea s it provided the mystical backdrop for the 2001 Hollywood movie starring Angelina Jolie. Restoration works are ongoing at Ta Prohm with walkways and ropes protecting the monument from tourists

HOW TO EXPLORE THE TEMPLES?

The temples are too far apart to make foot travel practical. Angkor Wat, the nearest temple, is located at 6.5 km (4 mi) from Siem Reap. There are several modes of transport allowed inside the site, from bicycles to vehicles. Most hotel staffs will be able to assist you with one of the following options:

• Car taxi (3-4 seats): $ 25 to 30 USD per day. This is the most comfortable mean of transportation, with air-conditioning.
• Three-wheel remork (tuktuk): $12 to 15 USD per day. This is the most used mode of transport to discover Angkor (for max 4 persons per tuktuk).
• Bicycle: $2 to 3 USD per day. There are many cycle paths around Angkor. The ground is flat and makes it easy to pedal but pay attention to the heat. Cycling also allows you to escape the tourist crowds and to travel at your own pace.

To smell the forest and listen to birds and cicadas, I recommend you to discover the temples by “3-wheel remork” (tuk tuk) or bicycle. You can also absorb the enormity of Angkor on an early morning balloon flight. Rising before dawn to watch the eeriest of shadows stretch across hallowed temple grounds as the sun rises is a sight to behold, and definitely something to add to your bucket list.

ANGKOR WAT: VISITOR CODE OF CONDUCT

• Revealing clothes such as shorts and skirts above the knees and showing bare shoulders are prohibited in sacred places. Respectful dress is strongly encouraged during a visit to Angkor Wat.
• As Angkor is a sacred site, loud conversation, noises and other inappropriate behaviour in Cambodian culture is considered to be offensive and may disturb other visitors. Please keep calm and be respectful.
• As a member of the World Health Organization, Angkor has been a smoke free site since 2012. Smoking cigarettes disturbs others and cigarettes can start bush fires. To protect the environment, please do not smoke and litter.
• Monks are revered and respected. If you want to take pictures, please ask for permission first. Women should not touch nor stand or sit too close to monks.
• Touching carvings, sitting on fragile structures, leaning on temple structures, moving or taking archaeological artifacts and graffiti are strictly prohibited. Backpacks, umbrellas with sharp tips, tripods and high heels are discouraged from being brought or worn inside the temples.
• For your own safety and for the conservation of Angkor, please comply with all signs on the site and be mindful of your steps at all times. Do not climb on loose stones.
• Buying items, giving candy or money to children encourages them not to attend school but to beg. If you wish to help the children, please consider donating to a recognized charity.

WHAT HOTEL TO STAY AT?

Siem Reap, the city closest to Angkor Wat, features several luxurious hotels. The best one, by far, is Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang − also called ‘the green village’. Set within 8 acres of lush gardens, lemon-grass meadows and rice paddies, this elegant retreat is home to 45 private villas made to resemble traditional Cambodian houses in plantations. The hotel also has two gourmet restaurants, a magnificent pool, cigar & cocktail lounge, and an indulgent spa. You can read my review of Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang here or watch my YouTube clip below:

Other luxury hotels in Siem Reap are:

• Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor sits by the tree-shaded river at the heart of Siem Reap and was one of the first luxury hotels to open in town. It is ideally located for Angkor Wat and the great Tonle Sap lake. The town’s colorful craft markets and lively cafes are a short walk away. The hotel lies in a tropical garden that encloses a swimming pool and lotus ponds to create a tranquil retreat. Traditionally-designed suites spread out among lush flora. Each suite features wooden fixtures in the typical Khmer style and many suites also have terraces with views onto the gardens. The Kong Kea Spa, the most spacious of its kind in the country, offers total peace and relaxation.
• Park Hyatt Siem Reap offers comfort and opulence in each of its 104 spacious rooms and suites. A luxurious home away from home that is strategically located in the heart of Siem Reap, this stylish contemporary hotel adorned with Cambodian art is near the airport, the renowned 12th century ruins of Angkor Wat temple and just a five-minute leisurely walk to the local nightlife scene. The hotel serves French and authentic cuisine from Cambodia at The Dining Room and a delectable array of desserts and light fare at The Glasshouse deli-patisserie. For utmost relaxation and rejuvenation, the hotel has two swimming pools and a selection of invigorating massages and treatments at the spa.
• Amansara is a peaceful sanctuary on the outskirts of Siem Reap, inutes from the sacred temples of Angkor. A masterpiece of 1960s New Khmer architecture commissioned by King Norodom Sihanouk for his guests, today the residence houses 24 sleek suites, along with a soaring circular dining room and a holistic spa. The original pool has been replicated amid tranquil mature grounds, and many of the suites feature private plunge pools, adding to the introspective atmosphere. Custom-fitted remorks (rickshaws) and vintage Jeeps whisk guests and their private guides to Angkor, where Amansara’s Khmer Village House provides respite and rustic meals within the archaeological complex.

PHOTOS

*** Follow me on Instagram, Youtube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Review: a visit to Angkor Wat (Cambodia) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

I recently enjoyed a wonderful holiday in Thailand (home to my favorite hotel in the world: Soneva Kiri) and the Kingdom of Cambodia. You can read my trip reports here:

• Review: Etihad Airways Airbus A380 First Class Apartment from Paris to Abu Dhabi
• Review: Etihad Airways Dreamliner B787 Business Class from Abu Dhabi to Bangkok
• Review: Waldorf Astoria Bangkok, Thailand
• Review: Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang, Cambodia (today)
• Review: A visit to Angkor Wat, Cambodia
• Review: Alila Villas Koh Russey, Cambodia
• Review: Bensley Collection, Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia
• Review: Cathay Dragon Airbus A320 Business Class from Phnom Penh to Hong Kong
• Review: Cathay Pacific First Class Boeing 777 from Hong Kong to Frankfurt

Today (20 May, 2020): Review of Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang (Cambodia).

• Location: Google maps
• Hotel website: Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Classic Travel

Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang − also called ‘the green village’ − is the best 5-star luxury resort near Siem Reap in Cambodia. Set within 8 acres of lush gardens, lemon-grass meadows and rice paddies, this elegant retreat is a gateway to the Angkor World Heritage Site and numerous natural and cultural wonders. The property is home to 45 private villas made to resemble traditional Cambodian houses in plantations. The hotel also has two gourmet restaurants, a magnificent pool, cigar & cocktail lounge, and an indulgent spa.

Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury hotels in Cambodia.

Have you ever stayed at Phum Baitang? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube clip & slideshow):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Photos

REVIEW OF PHUM BAITANG: PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Phum Baitang is the best luxury resort in Siem Reap and one of the premier hotel destinations in Cambodia. Recreating the simple charm of village life, this sublime retreat is nestled peacefully in a quiet rural area just outside of town, slightly apart from Siem Reap’s many hotels, busy markets, and tourist restaurants. The property is only a short 15-minute ride to the Angkor ruins, the Old Market downtown area and the airport, yet its serene and tranquil ambiance feels a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Siem Reap town. Phum Baitang has its own fleet of tuk-tuks and cars to pick up guests at the airport or to drive them around town or to the temples.

• Designed by the Parisian architecture firm AW₂, Phum Baitang is gorgeous recreation of a Cambodian village. Clusters of rustic hotel pavilions are scattered over 8 acres of lush gardens, which are organized around a traditional landscape of rice fields, creating vast perspectives from all sides. A long wooden walkway floats above the palm-lined rice paddy and leads from the intimate lobby on one side of the resort to the main pool and one of the restaurants on the property’s other side. It truly feel like being in the middle of a working rice farm; the rice is harvested three times a year and given to guests as a farewell gift upon departure.

• Both in its public areas and private villas, the resort’s design achieves a striking balance between rustic elegance and genuine luxury. The materials used – timber, bamboo, cotton, stone, and renders – are voluntarily understated, with natural textures and colors being preferred. The architectural elements are taken from the local vernacular architecture. The shutters and the vertical or horizontal rhythm of the timber cladding create touches of Khmer references throughout. The traditional Cambodian colonial aesthetic is further infused with hand-picked antiques, giving the hotel design a sense of belonging and a form of timelessness

• Phum Baitang is comprised of 45 wooden and stilted villas that are designed to resemble traditional Khmer houses. There are 25 spacious villas with private terraces, and 20 others with private plunge pools, all of them standing amidst the rice paddy and verdant lawns. During my visit, I stayed in a terrace villa, which was organized as a single space with high-pitched ceilings, featuring a kingsize bed, a separate sitting area and a desk. The elegant ensuite bathroom was equipped with a huge freestanding tub, rain shower and double vanity. A large glass door opened up the view towards an outdoor living terrace, creating a direct contact with the landscape.

• Phum Baitang features a magnificent infinity pool, which overlooks the rice paddies, sugar palms and traditional resort pavilions. Clad in rough-hewn black stone, the freeform salt water pool is a generous 50 m (164 ft) long and lined by one row of stylish loungers and sun umbrellas. Thatch-roofed salas at either end of the pool make good hideaways for couples to lounge the day away. Adjacent to the infinity pool is a pool bar, which offers a stunning open-air setting with magnificent views. Here, guests can enjoy a light meal or refreshing homemade juices while soaking up the Cambodian sun.

• There are two locally-inspired gourmet restaurants that offer delicious meal choices that go far beyond the norm for what is considered typical Khmer cuisine:
  • With views over the surrounding rice paddies and gardens, Bay Phsar restaurant is located along the main pool and offers an array of vibrant Cambodian flavors created using local ingredients. Each morning, it’s also the scene of an excellent breakfast (with buffet & menu).
  • Hang Bay restaurant is located next to the lobby and serves a fusion of international cuisine, from the freshest seafood to the finest steaks, either in an elegant dining room or on a stylish porch with great views of the beautiful sunsets and starlit nights.

• The villas and restaurant pavilions are new, but the 100-year old Cambodian farmhouse at the heart of the rice paddies is not. Smartly restored and repurposed as the hotel’s cocktail and cigar bar, it’s easily one of the most atmospheric venues in the Siem Reap area, with rattan wing chairs and oriental carpets evoking the glamorous turn-of-the-century era when French explorers settled here. At the lounge, guests can delight in the pleasure of sipping a wide variety of cocktails (from the traditional to the innovative), a selection of fine wines, and vintage liqueurs location while watching the sun slowly set behind the property’s swimming pool.

• For those seeking the relaxing ambiance of a first class wellness center, the Temple Spa truly is a sanctuary within this resort oasis. The pavilion housing the spa reception is modeled after a temple with design motifs based on the elegant carvings and columns of Angkor Wat. The spa features seven spa treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, relaxation area as well as a yoga pavilion. Therapies based on traditional Khmer rituals or massage techniques such as Tibetan, Swedish or Ayurvedic can all be performed by highly trained therapists. A yoga pavilion, sauna and steam room, and a small but well-equipped fitness room complete the resort’s spa facilities.

• Phum Baitang is managed by Zannier Hotels, a family owned luxury hotel group, driven by passion for hospitality and gastronomy. The group’s vision and philosophy is based on Leonardo da Vinci’s famous quote “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”. The key principle behind every project of the group is the devotion to simplicity and the product’s authenticity. Zannier Hotels are pure, unique, and nestled in exquisitely beautiful parts of the world. The welcome is personal and the accommodation sumptuous. And yet it’s the total experience − the unique impression imparted by the hotel’s ambiance in that particular locality − that makes a stay unforgettable.

• The resort’s understated luxury beckons guests to unwind and recharge after a long day exploring the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, the principle draw card for many savvy tourists from around the globe. Built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat was constructed to symbolise Mount Meru, the mythical mountain of gods. Inside the temple, the walls are covered with stone carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and the wars Suryavarman II fought during his reign. Angkor Wat’s walls are decorated with more than 2,000 dancing figures, animals and devatas.

REVIEW OF PHUM BAITANG: CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang is by far the best luxury resort near Angkor Wat. The property offers a stunning green setting, traditional design, beautiful villas, sophisticated food, and world-class leisure facilities. Although there is little to say against the resort, you may want to know the following when considering a stay here:

• The gorgeous property is tucked away in what seems like the middle of nowhere in Cambodia’s countryside. But that is exactly what makes it so unique: it’s secluded, private, quiet and serene with its own amazing rice paddies, great dining options, and exclusive facilities. Although the isolated location is part of the appeal for most guests, it’s important to emphasize that you won’t find any restaurants, shops or night life within walking distance (although it’s just a 15 minute tuk-tuk ride to Siem Reap center if you are in need to venture outside the resort).

• Twenty of the 45 villas feature a lovely garden with private pool, but the privacy of these gardens is not always great, as public walkways offer peak-a-boo views into these gardens. This is mostly because of the sparse and young vegetation in some parts of the resort, but I assume this should get better over time as the plants grow taller and the vegetation becomes more dense.

REVIEW OF PHUM BAITANG: MY VERDICT

• Location: 8/10
• Design: 10/10
• Pool: 10/10
• Rooms: 9/10
• Food: 10/10
• Breakfast: 9/10
• Spa: 9/10
• Service: 10/10
• Value for money: 9/10
• Overall experience: exceptional 9,2/10

REVIEW OF PHUM BAITANG: TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Classic Travel (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast for two, early check-in, late check-out, and round trip airport transfers).

• Save money: read here my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel like Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang (and/or receive many free perks).

• Room tip: every villa at Phum Baitang is great and features a similar layout, but it’s worth splurging on a villa with a private plunge pool.

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

REVIEW OF PHUM BAITANG: BEST TIME TO VISIT

The weather in Cambodia is dominated by a tropical monsoon climate which means there are three main seasons: a cool, dry season between November and February (which is the best period to visit the area); a hot, dry season from March to June; and a rainy season from July to October. Expect daytime temperatures to be in excess of 30 °C (86°F) throughout the year (with the possible exception of late December and early January, when it’s a bit cooler). The two periods April to May and September to October are characterised by high, almost untolerable humidity. The southwest monsoons arrive between May and October bringing unsettled, cloudy conditions and, for many, this is a welcome respite.

REVIEW OF PHUM BAITANG: HOW TO GET THERE

The resort  is located a 15 min drive from Siem Reap International Airport (REP). Click here for a continuously updated list of airlines that offer direct flights to Siem Reap.

REVIEW OF PHUM BAITANG: PHOTOS

*** Follow me on Instagram, Youtube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Review: Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang (Cambodia) – AMAZING resort appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today (May 18, 2020): Top 10 best luxury hotels & resorts in Cambodia.

For many years, Cambodia’s reputation as a landmine-littered conflict zone drew nothing more than the most adventurous travelers. But that’s all a thing of the past, as the beautiful country is a rapidly becoming a popular travel destination in Southeast Asia. Most descriptions of traveling in Cambodia lead with words such as “tranquil,” “undiscovered,” and “authentic.” Those are all true, as there’s an unquestionable magic about this charming and alluring Kingdom. Part of that allure comes from its chaotic capital Phnom Penh, some of the best street food in the world, and low key tropical islands. Of course, the country’s real draw is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, an amazing architectural achievement unrivalled in scale and grandeur in Asia. In recent years, a string of fabulous properties has opened in the Kingdom and here’s my list of the 10 best luxury hotels in Cambodia.

There is more information (with trip reports & YouTube clips) below the slide show. Think I missed one? Leave a comment or take my poll below!

*** Follow me on Instagram, Youtube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. RAFFLES HOTEL LE ROYAL, PHNOM PENH

Raffles Hotel Le Royal has been the premier luxury hotel in Cambodia’s capital city since opening in 1929. A restoration project has returned the hotel to its original colonial grandeur with five luxurious restaurants and bars on-site. Besides serving the Jacqueline Kennedy menu, Restaurant Le Royal offers Royal Khmer cuisine with menus crafted by the Royal Palace. The Elephant Bar has welcomed many legendary visitors; its signature Femme Fatale cocktail was created to mark Jacqueline Kennedy’s 1967 visit to Cambodia. Two swimming pools, set in lush, tropical gardens, provide welcome respite after a day spent exploring this vibrant city.

• Hotel website: Raffles Hotel Le Royal
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out,  a 30 minute hotel heritage tour, and a 60 minute massage for two).
• Review: read my review of Raffles Hotel Le Royal here.

9. BELMOND LA RESIDENCE D’ANGKOR

An intimate Khmer-style hotel, Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor sits by the tree-shaded river at the heart of Siem Reap and was one of the first luxury hotels to open in town. It is ideally located for Angkor Wat and the great Tonle Sap lake. The town’s colorful craft markets and lively cafes are a short walk away. The hotel lies in a tropical garden that encloses a swimming pool and lotus ponds to create a tranquil retreat. Traditionally-designed suites spread out among lush flora. Each suite features wooden fixtures in the typical Khmer style and many suites also have terraces with views onto the gardens. The Kong Kea Spa, the most spacious of its kind in the country, offers total peace and relaxation.

• Hotel website: Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a 50 minute massage for two).

8. PARK HYATT SIEM REAP

Park Hyatt Siem Reap offers comfort and opulence in each of its 104 spacious rooms and suites. A luxurious home away from home that is strategically located in the heart of Siem Reap, this stylish contemporary hotel adorned with Cambodian art is near the airport, the renowned 12th century ruins of Angkor Wat temple and just a five-minute leisurely walk to the local nightlife scene. The hotel serves French and authentic cuisine from Cambodia at The Dining Room and a delectable array of desserts and light fare at The Glasshouse deli-patisserie. For utmost relaxation and rejuvenation, the hotel has two swimming pools and a selection of invigorating massages and treatments at the spa.

• Hotel website: Park Hyatt Siem Reap
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read my review of Park Hyatt Siem Reap here.

7. ROSEWOOD PHNOM PENH

Rosewood Phnom Penh occupies the top 14 floors of Vattanac Capital Tower One in the heart of the Central Business District, providing an ultra-luxury hotel experience in the exotic capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Soaring 188 m (617 ft) into the sky, the iconic building takes the form of a rising dragon oriented toward the east, offering unobstructed panoramic views of the city, including the fabled Mekong River. The hotel features 175 rooms and suites, which rank amongst the largest hotel guest rooms in Phnom Penh. Dining options include a 120-seat bistro, a 60-seat lobby lounge, two specialty restaurants and a spectacular sky bar on a cantilevered terrace.

• Hotel website: Rosewood Phnom Penh

6. AMANSARA, SIEM REAP

Minutes from the sacred temples of Angkor, Amansara is a peaceful sanctuary on the outskirts of Siem Reap. A masterpiece of 1960s New Khmer architecture commissioned by King Norodom Sihanouk for his guests, today the residence houses 24 sleek suites, along with a soaring circular dining room and a holistic spa. The original pool has been replicated amid tranquil mature grounds, and many of the suites feature private plunge pools, adding to the introspective atmosphere. Custom-fitted remorks (rickshaws) and vintage Jeeps whisk guests and their private guides to Angkor, where Amansara’s Khmer Village House provides respite and rustic meals within the archaeological complex.

• Hotel website: Amansara
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and a 60 min massage per room).

5. SIX SENSES KRABEY ISLAND, KOH RONG ARCHIPELAGO

Enjoying a private setting on a tiny Cambodian island, Six Senses Krabey Island comprises 40 free-standing pool villas that blend into the lush canopy of trees. The private island is located 3 miles (5 kilometers) off Ream National Park in the Gulf of Thailand in southern Cambodia; remote enough yet not cut off from a country offering abundant culture and history. There are two restaurants, with snacks, refreshments and light meals presented poolside plus a deli complete with ice cream parlor. Six Senses Spa Krabey Island offers several ancient Cambodian healing traditions and multi-day rejuvenation journeys, Six Senses integrated wellness, detox, yoga and workshops.

• Hotel website: Six Senses Krabey Island

4. ALILA VILLAS KOH RUSSEY, KOH RONG ARCHIPELAGO

Sublime natural beauty abounds on the enchanting island of Koh Russey, which is part of Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago. This private island resort is a tropical jewel blessed with stunning coastlines, dramatic headlands, powder-sand beaches and tropical forests, framed by the emerald waters of the gulf and the azure sky. Designed in harmony with these spectacular surroundings, Alila Villas Koh Russey is an ecological escape infused with Khmer culture and charm, where privacy, nature and local hospitality take center stage. The property offers 62 ultra-modern and spacious rooms & villas, a stylish spa, two excellent restaurants, and wide array of activities and excursions.

• Hotel website: Alila Villas Koh Russey
• Review: coming soon

3. SONG SAA PRIVATE ISLAND, KOH RONG ARCHIPELAGO

Created with sustainability in mind, Song Saa Private Island reflects the undiscovered beauty of Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago. It’s a place that breathes in time with nature, built from local materials, by local hands, and infused with local art and soul. An evolved tropical getaway with a pristine private beach, stunning sunset views, heavenly spa sanctuaries, world-class cuisine, and a preserved coral reef, Song Saa Private Island lets you detach from the world and tune into simple luxuries. With 9 overwater villas in addition to 18 garden and beach villas, this resort represents 5-star-plus luxury and a level of romance that you might not expect in Cambodia.

• Hotel website: Song Saa Private Island
• Other accolades: Song Saa Private Island also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s most beautiful overwater bungalows, the world’s best honeymoon hotels, and the world’s best eco-friendly luxury hotels.
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD resort credit).

2. ZANNIER HOTELS PHUM BAITANG, SIEM REAP

Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang − also called ‘the green village’ − is the best 5-star luxury hotel near Siem Reap and one of Cambodia’s premier resort destinations. Set within 8 acres of lush gardens, lemon-grass meadows and rice paddies, this elegant retreat is a gateway to the Angkor World Heritage Site and numerous natural and cultural wonders. The property is home to 45 magnificent private villas made to resemble traditional Cambodian houses in plantations. The hotel also has two gourmet restaurants, a fabulous swimming pool, cigar & cocktail lounge, and an indulgent spa. Phum Baitang is managed by Zannier Hotels, one of my favorite boutique hotel brands.

• Hotel website: Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Classic Travel (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and roundtrip airport transfers).
• Review: read my review of Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang here.

Created by famous resort designer Bill Bensley, Shinta Mani Wild is a radical new ‘glamping’ hotel concept in Cambodia, combining world class hospitality and conservation. The property is located in an unprotected wildlife corridor connecting the Bokor National Park with Kirirom National Park, and aims to protect this 350 hectares river valley from poaching, mining and logging. Fifteen custom designed tents are perched over swift moving waters and waterfalls, providing a view and experience unlike any other resort in Asia. Each tent is meticulously designed to invoke the feeling of what it would have been like to be on a luxury safari in the jungles of Cambodia with Jacky O.

• Hotel website:  Shinta Mani Wild
• Other accolades: Shinta Mani Wild also features in my top 10 list of the world’s best glamping sites.
• Review: read my review of Shinta Mani Wild here.

*** Follow me on Instagram, Youtube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Top 10 best luxury hotels & resorts in Cambodia appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Today  (March 3, 2014): Review of the Park Hyatt Siem Reap (Cambodia). 

• Location: Google Maps
• Address: Sivutha Boulevard, Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Hotel website: Park Hyatt Siem Reap
• Tip: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso

Hyatt rebranded the renowned Cambodia hotel to Park Hyatt Siem Reap in 2013, the first property of the luxury hotel brand in Cambodia.  The boutique hotel is situated in the center of Siem Reap, a 15 minute car drive from the famous 12th century ruins of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site that researchers believe was one of the largest pre-industrial cities in the world, and one of the world’s top 10 cultural destinations.

In this review (more info below my Youtube clip and slideshow):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Things to do in Siem Reap
• Best time to visit
• How to get there

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• As you would expect from the exclusive Park Hyatt brand, the high-end hotel feels very luxurious. It’s an elegant mix of colonial architecture and trendy touches.

• The hotel is located in the city center of Siem Reap, at walking distance from the French Quarter.

• The hotel is an urban oasis of luxury and tranquility, a world apart from the huzzle and buzzle of the surrounding, dusty, and hectic town.

• The service is outstanding and on pair with the best Asian resorts. The staff will serve you with a smile, always. And they all speak fluently English.

• The on site restaurant, the Dining Room, is superb and highly recommended (albeit pricy for Cambodian standards).

• The hotel has two swimming pools which never seemed too busy. There are enough loungers for the guests to relax after all the exhausting sightseeing at the nearby temples. Both pools, while not very large, are very enjoyable and the water has the ideal temperature to cool off under the hot Asian sun. The pool on the second floor is semi-indoor and shaded.

• The hotel has a spa as well as a small but pleasant gym room.

• The price is reasonable for a Park Hyatt, especially if you can make use of a best rate guarantee (which will discount the room rate by an additional 20%).

• The rooms are large, and nicely decorated with all modern touches one could want. Beds are very good (although mattresses are a bit on the hard side IMHO).

CONS  & THINGS TO KNOW

• Airport transfers are priced at US$50. This is expensive considering the fact that hotel is only a 20 minute drive away from the airport and that many hotels and guest houses in Seam Reap offer free pick-up and drop-off from the airport.

• Bath tubes in the room are very narrow.

• WiFi was of very variable quality during my stay: it did work in the communal areas of the hotel, but not in my room.

• The safe did not open on the day of my departure causing some stress since we had to catch a flight (but kudos to the hotel, someone was promptly sent to fix it).

MY VERDICT

• Location: 7/10
• Design: 8/10
• Rooms: 8/10
• Food: 9/10
• Service: 9/10
• Overall experience: very good: 8/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money: read my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury resort like Park Hyatt Siem Reap and/or how receive many free perks.

• Save money: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, one complimentary set menu “Taste of Cambodia” dinner for two per room at The Dining Room, destination-inspired amenities light snacks in hand-made jars with a large bottle of panna water, and cold towels and welcome drink, jasmine garland on arrival ).

• Save money: make use of Hyatt’s best rate guarantee. If you find a better rate, the Hyatt Hotel Group will match it and give you $50 toward your next stay.

• Elite members of Hyatt’s loyalty program, World of Hyatt, are well treated, with – amongst other benefits – complimentary room upgrade (when available), early check-in or late check-out  (when available), and free breakfast. Click here to read my review of the World of Hyatt program (with pros & cons).

• Request a hotel room away from the street (to avoid any street noise disturbance).

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

THINGS TO DO IN SIEM REAP

Cambodia has a surprisingly diverse range of terrain with the landscape a blend of rice paddies, sugar palm plantations and remote jungles. But most people come all the way to Cambodia, and Siem Reap in particular, because it is the home to the magnificent ancient Temple ruins of Angkor, with the iconic Angkor Wat, the stone faces on the gateways of Angkor Thom and the ubiquitous Ta Phrom. Vast, beautiful and beguiling, these temple complexes contain a magic that makes them stand out from the crowd.

Some tips to help organize your visit to Angkor :

• No matter how jet lagged you may be, get up very early to visit the amazing temple near Seam Reap, so that you can enjoy the magic of a sunrise over Angkor Wat (you will share this moment though with many others) and so that you avoid the unbearable heat of the day while exploring the temple complex.

• If you want to avoid temple fatigue, limit your visit to the 3 main sites: Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and the jungle covered Ta Prohm. You can visit them on a half day with the right guide (the Park Hyatt can arrange this for 55 USD per person for a party of 2, including the 20 USD entrance fee per person and the car driver).

• Wikipedia has an excellent webpage for planning your visit to Angkor Wat.

• If time is on your hand, consider combining the ancient temples of Angkor Wat with those of Borobodur in Indonesia and Bagan in Burma.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Like most of Southeast Asia, Cambodia varies from warm to very hot throughout the whole year. There are four annual seasons: cool and dry between November and February; (very) hot and dry between March and May; hot and wet between June and August; and cool and wet between September and early November. The best time to visit is the cool season, when the weather usually benefits from a pleasant dry heat and the countryside is still green from the rains.

HOW TO GET THERE

Most people reach Siem Reap by bus (from Phnom Penh) or by plane.

If you travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by bus (6 to 7 hours), then your best choice is the Giant Ibis bus company. You can book tickets online, the buses are modern and comfortable (with onboard wifi!)

If you fly into Seam Reap, then you have to start your journey in or connect via Southeast Asia. The following airlines (click here for direct links to their websites) serve the small airport:

• via Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville (Cambodia): Cambodia Angkor Air
• via Bangkok (Thailand): Bangkok Airways, Cambodia Angkor Air, Air Asia
• via Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia): Air Asia, Malaysia Airlines
• via Singapore: Jetstar, Silkair
• via Hong Kong: Dragonair
• via Seoul or Bisan (South Korea): Asiana Airlines, Korean Air, Air Busan, Eastar Jet
• via Yangon (Myanmar): Myanmar Airways International
• via Da Nang, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Luang Prabang (Vietnam): Vietnam Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air
• via Luang Prabang, Pakse, Vientiane (Laos):  Lao Airlines
• via Manila (Philipines): Cebu Pacific
• via Bejing, Shanghai, Kunming, or Guanghzou (China): Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air

*** Follow me on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Hotel review: Park Hyatt Siem Reap (Cambodia) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.