What it is

A compound-like boutique hotel that deftly combines Khmer and French colonial design.

What it isn't

Completely private: Deluxe rooms open directly onto the pool area. Suites are better shielded from view.

What we think

WIth just 39 rooms and suites, the Anantara offers an exquisitely intimate place to stay while experiencing Angkor and Cambodian culture. A quick ride outside of downtown Siem Reap, the hotel is centered around a beautiful, gold-flecked saltwater pool—you can dip your toe right in the water from ground-floor rooms. Authentic Khmer touches abound, like handwoven rugs, hand-carved teak furniture and locally made sandstone sculptures, but you'll see colonial influences, too (clawfoot tubs, wood louvers, mosquito netting). Add in attentive service from personal butlers, a tranquil spa and two accomplished restaurants, and you have an atmosphere that's at once romantic and authentically Cambodian. It doesn't get more authentic than the main attraction, the Angkor Archaeological Park, only a 15-minute drive away. The hotel will arrange guides for the temple complex, and can also set up picnics, market tours and cooking classes.

You're here because

Like the Khmer kings, you want to be pampered like royalty and cloistered from the crowds.

The Moment

After a long morning clambering around the temples, you rest on the divan in your private garden and inhale the sweet aromas of the flowers. A gentle knock on the door signals that the masseur has arrived.

Restaurants & Bars

Pool Bar - Serves Western & oriental snacks all day

Gallery Bar - Serves Western & oriental snacks in the evening

Sothea Restaurant - Serves Khmer inspired food all day

Pool Bar - Situated around the pool

Gallery Bar - Located on 2 levels around the courtyard

Sothea Restaurant - Royal Khmer Villa is the main dining room

Location

On the western edge of Siem Reap, hence quieter than in-town hotels. It's about 5 minutes by car to the airport, 15 minutes to the main temple complex. The hotel runs a complimentary tuk-tuk service into town.