Mid-century royal hideaway
Past an unmarked black gate, low-slung New Khmer modernist pavilions unfold around tranquil reflecting ponds, mature trees, and open-air corridors.
“Hill kept things simple, playing up its modernist look with stark cream walls, expansive green lawns, and long corridors.”
Where it shines
Exceptional
Airport transfers in vintage 1965 Mercedes limousines, with private guides and remork drivers.
Remarkable
Restored mid-century New Khmer modernist pavilions with terrazzo floors and dark timber details.
What they say
Two Michelin Keys
Michelin
Forbes Five-Star
Forbes Travel Guide
2026
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and Tatler.
Vestiges of this Sixties architecture remain in the calming Zen-inflected minimalist style for which the AMAN resorts are known.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Set along Charles de Gaulle Boulevard opposite the royal gardens, the resort sits ten minutes from Angkor Wat by private motorized remork.
The rooms
Terrazzo floors and dark timber define open-plan suites with walled garden courtyards, while half feature private outdoor plunge pools.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The curved black slate swimming pool dates to the 1960s, reflecting the circular dining pavilion and tall palms.
The spa and studio
Treatment suites look out over a 43-meter sandstone bas-relief, and the movement studio opens onto a leafy courtyard.
Restaurant
The Dining Room
The soaring circular restaurant occupies a former royal screening room, serving Khmer curries and opening onto poolside tables.
Yet another creation of prolific 20th-century builder King Norodom Sihanouk, Amansara has had many different names over the years.
At the table
An open-air roof terrace sits among mature trees, set for candlelit drinks and evening dining.
How it began
Built in 1962 as King Sihanouk's royal guest villa, the New Khmer landmark was reconstructed using archival photographs from past international visitors.
“Upon arrival, I was greeted by name with an herbal drink and a cool lemongrass-scented towel. The staff embody that elusive Aman quality—intuitive, almost anticipatory hospitality.”
Stay here
Amansara
See rooms and prices on the hotel's own website.
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Siem Reap
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.