Jaya House River Park

Relax beneath the lush canopy of ancient trees in the private tropical garden of your villa in the cultural heart of Siem Reap. When designing the ten villa compounds, privacy and comfort were foremost in Bill Bensley’s mind. Think luxurious beds and custom-tailored linen, floor-to-ceiling glassed bathrooms and three-dimensional murals inspired by the folds of pioneering Khmer king Jayavarman’s robes. Artwork depicting Khmer civilisation complements custom-designed furniture and handcrafted fittings. Traditionally-trained butlers are discretely on hand to attend your all your needs.

Savour the very best of Khmer cuisine at the signature Kroya Restaurant, which boasts a tasting menu inspired by the seasons and local harvest. Then bring the busy day to a close with an expertly-mixed cocktail at Bensley’s Bar or the Elephant Polo Club.

The magnificent Temples of Angkor Wat are just a short drive away, and the Old Market, Kandal Village and Pub Street are within walking distance. Take time out from exploring Siem Reap and unwind in your private pool, or visit the tranquil Shinta Mani Spa by Khmer Tonics. There are a variety of rejuvenating treatments and healing rituals on offer, using Khmer herbs and traditions, which you can enjoy in the spa, or in the privacy of your villa.

With its sister hotel, Shinta Mani Angkor across the road, this resort is just as polished, although more substantial in size, with 62 guestrooms. Its French Quarter location also adds to the delightful ambience, and the tropical garden sets a most peaceful scene. Similarly to Shinta Mani Angkor, this resort takes a responsible outlook to tourism and strives to give back to the local community, with a variety of programs.

Built around a black-lined pool, the guestrooms each feature a balcony or terrace, overlooking the turquoise waters. Walls of chalky black are adorned with Khmer art, and splashes of orange give warmth to the interior.

Baitong, the hotel’s plant-filled eatery, serves international and local cuisine, paying particular attention to Khmer street food. Guests can also dine at Shinta Mani Angkor’s restaurant, Kroya and enjoy a drink at Bensley’s Bar. Shinta Mani Shack’s responsible approach extends to its plastic-free practices, and guests can fill up their water bottles at stations around the grounds.

Located next to the property is a tourism hospitality school, funded by the Shinta Mani Foundation. Guests can visit the school during the week and pick up a few trinkets at the hotel’s shop that also supports the foundation. There’s no on-site spa, but those in search of some pampering post-exploring the sights can stroll over to Shinta Mani Angkor’s spa.

With the feel of a rural Khmer village, Sala Lodge’s luxury lies in its calm simplicity and service.

The eleven stilted wooden houses were purchased from nearby villages, dismantled, transported and beautifully restored, now providing tremendously comfortable lodgings with their individual character intact.

The communal areas provide a contemporary feel to the hotel, the modern lines of the restaurant, bar and swimming pool contrasting and enhancing the traditional architecture of the houses.

Though located some 11km (7 miles) away from the hubbub of Siem Reap, residents will have an appointed tuk-tuk with a driver at their disposal to drive them into town. Other personal services, such as in house massages, private dinners and a range of tours can also be arranged.