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Cambodia
The Experience
In 1962, Cambodia's hipster prince, and future king, Norodom Sihanouk, tapped French architect Laurent Mondet to design a paean to mid-century modern on the edge of the ancient temple city Angkor Wat. Looking as if it might have been lifted out of swinging Southern California, the one-story Villa Princièr welcomed everyone from Jackie O to Peter O'Toole before falling into disrepair under the Khmer Rouge. Restored and rechristened by the Amanresort group in 2002, this contemporary design gem is once again an elegantly modern perch from which to explore one of the world's ancient wonders. Perfumed with jasmine and ornamented with stylish objets, the Amansara is among a handful of truly luxe Cambodian properties, but with its breezy Zen decor and intimate vibe it feels more like a private guesthouse than a hotel.
The RoomsFusing Asian elements (teak and rattan) with modern sleek (glossy terrazzo and rich woods), clean lines and open-floor plans give a nod to the property's '60s heyday. Set in a lush garden off a courtyard pool, 24 light-filled pavilion suites are designed with elegant restraint -- soothing after humid days exploring Cambodian monuments. Furnishings are simple and generously proportioned; a large writing desk, king-size bed, dining table and upholstered cotton sofa are fashioned in earth tones. Grace notes include Cambodian bas-reliefs, separate bath areas fitted with soaking tubs and rain showers that open onto verdant private terraces centered on lotus ponds. Book one with a private plunge pool.
The ServiceFast-tracked through Cambodia's comically stern airport customs (no smiling! very serious!), you're whisked away in Prince Sihanouk's vintage black Mercedes and escorted to your suite. Here, service is frequent and discreet, with flower-strewn sunset baths drawn for guests after a hot day of temple trawling.
The HighlightsThe Amansara is practically an all-inclusive: Twice-daily excursions (led by expert guides), two meals daily and cocktails are all included. Take the latter by the pool or on a sexy, candle-lit rooftop terrace edged with trees and set with daybeds and low-slung tables. Brush up on your history in the elegant library and enjoy shows in a towering circular dining room that once served as Sihanouk's private cinema. With a new spa built around an ancient rain tree, the temptation is to remain at the hotel, but Siem Reap has recently welcomed a slew of fashionable boîtes, and the Amansara's bespoke fleet of glossy, three-wheel remorques, outfitted with uniformed drivers, ferries guests back and forth.
-- Viia Beaumanis
