Amansara
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap Center
Vibe
Past an unmarked black gate, low-slung New Khmer modernist pavilions unfold around tranquil reflecting ponds, mature trees, and open-air corridors.
“Mid-century royal hideaway”
Vintage 1965 Mercedes airport transfers, private remork drivers, and deeply intuitive service anticipating every temple excursion.
Mid-century New Khmer modernist architecture featuring cool terrazzo, dark Asian timber, and a circular domed dining pavilion.
The 1962 royal guest villa of King Norodom Sihanouk, originally built to host visiting international dignitaries.
Along Charles de Gaulle Boulevard, ten minutes south of Angkor Wat and a short ride from downtown Siem Reap.
“Vestiges of this Sixties architecture remain in the calming Zen-inflected minimalist style for which the AMAN resorts are known.”
Rooms
Terrazzo floors and dark timber define open-plan suites with walled garden courtyards, while half feature private outdoor plunge pools.
“the K-shaped pool still provides a refuge after a day spent touring the ruins of Angkor, before a dinner under the dome…”
Wellness
The restored 1960s curved slate pool complements a 25-meter lap pool and four dark-wood spa suites offering herbal compress rituals.
“The simple retro beauty of the restored property is a hark back to those pre-Pol Pot days, a symbol of triumph over evil and renewal.”
Backstory
Built in 1962 as King Sihanouk's royal guest villa, the New Khmer landmark was reconstructed using archival photographs from past international visitors.
Eat & drink
Housed in a circular domed pavilion, the Dining Room serves traditional fish amok and Kampot pepper curries beside candlelit poolside tables.
The neighborhood
Set along Charles de Gaulle Boulevard opposite the royal gardens, the resort sits ten minutes from Angkor Wat by private motorized remork.
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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.