Alila Villas Koh Russey
Sihanoukville, Cambodia
Koh Russey
Vibe
Low-slung pavilions sit tucked into dense jungle behind a long copper-sand beach, reached by speedboat across the Gulf of Thailand.
“Modernist island keep”
Pavilions and villas draw from geometric krama scarf patterns, featuring carved timber headboards and flat-roofed profiles.
A secluded island retreat with a kilometre-long copper beach, tiered outdoor pool, and private boat excursions.
Standalone villas offer private plunge pools, alfresco soaking tubs, and personalized island excursions across the archipelago.
On a private island in the Koh Rong archipelago, reached by boat from Ream.
“Dual-level flat-roofed pavilions house the bulk of the resort’s rooms, while 13 standalone pool villas boast covetable gardens and outdoor living space.”
Rooms
Cuboid pavilions and villas feature intricate geometric timber headboards, floor-to-ceiling glass, and deep soaking tubs looking onto native foliage.
Wellness
The beachfront spa offers Khmer botanical bodywork, while a dedicated studio hosts daily yoga and a tiered pool steps down toward the shore.
Backstory
Singapore architect Chioh-Hui Goh shaped the low-density footprint around traditional woven krama patterns, leaving most of the island's old-growth forest untouched.
Eat & drink
Beach Shack serves grilled seafood with toes in the sand, while poolside Horizon pairs regional produce with French-inspired dining.
The neighborhood
Bamboo Island sits ten minutes by speedboat from Ream, surrounded by the clear waters and quiet coves of the Koh Rong archipelago.
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.