Amansara

An impressive garden enclave built in 1962, the Amansara was built for visiting guests of King Sihanouk. A wonderful example of Modernist architecture, the low-rise building with its clean lines and exposed stone, blends beautifully into its leafy location in Siem Reap’s old French Quarter. Both Jackie Onassis and Charles de Gaulle have stayed here, and the hotel makes the perfect retreat after a day of sightseeing. With only 24 suites, there is a personal vibe which almost makes it feel as if you are staying in your own exclusive villa.  Full of Aman’s signature zen-like simplicity but with luxurious levels of comfort, service and accommodation, this peaceful and majestic garden enclave will ensure your visit to Siem Reap is an indulgent and once-in-a-lifetime experience. The city’s night market, bars and restaurants are around a 10-minute walk away, while the temples at Angkor and Siem Reap airport can both be reached within a 15-minute drive.

The Amansara has just 12 Suites and 12 Pool Suites with saltwater infinity pools. All suites enjoy a private outdoor courtyard, open-plan sleeping and seating area with sofa, chairs and dining table and modern bathroom, decorated with dark wood furniture, white décor, polished marble floor and full-length glass doors opening out onto the courtyard, creating a wall of glass. The overall effect is light, spacious and private. Guests enjoy air-conditioning, ceiling fan, state-of-the-art music system and Wi-Fi. The food is amazing offering both Western and Khmer cuisine and guests can dine in the circular dining room (one of the hotel’s standout features), on the roof terrace, or in the privacy of their suite. The bar is also based in the dining room, where there is a relaxed lounge area.

The tropical gardens are a lovely place to unwind in the shade and guests can enjoy the use of two swimming pools. One is the original slate pool which curves around the sun loungers and the other is a lap pool for exercise. There is also a tranquil spa, library and gallery. A feature of the Amansara is the daily outing offered with an English-speaking guide and driver in a motorised rickshaw, who will use his local knowledge to ensure you get the most from your sightseeing. This iconic building is a wonderful hotel and we can’t think of a better place to retreat to after visiting the temple complex and attractions of Siem Reap.

When to go

In general, the best time to go to Cambodia is from November through to April, as this is when there is the least rain, although it can start to get very hot from March onwards. The wet season is from May to October. The beginning of the wet season in May and June, and the end in October tend to just see short, heavy showers, whereas rain is more frequent from July to September, particularly in the south of the country. November is a particularly good month to travel, as the country is still lush and green from the rainy season.