Hotel de la Paix
Siem Reap, Cambodia
A stand-out hotel of serious style, designed to inspire with a contemporary blend of art deco and Khmer design
Hotel de la Paix provides an oasis of style in a tourist town
largely overtaken by mass market brands. Set in Siem Reap, the
gateway to Angkor Wat, it was lovingly designed by Harvard
architect Bill Bensley, famed for his exotic, luxurious creations
and off-the-wall philosophy: 'lebih gila, lebih biak'; the
odder, the better'. It's certainly quirky - envisage a foyer floor
that dramatically floods with water or hanging daybeds at breakfast
- but was well worth the investment: the blend of old and new world
is wonderful.
Paix is hip yet accessible with friendly attentive service that
comes with a wide smile. Set around a stunning inner garden lined
with peaceful water gardens and towering palms, the order of the
day is relaxation and contemplation. Rooms are cool and
calm; the eating areas will make you want to linger over your food.
Further inspiration is provided by ever-changing art works,
beautifully displayed in the chameleon Arts Lounge bar. Those who
seek creative style with an understated flair, who like their
hotels to soothe with spirit, will love it.
Reviewed by Rachael Oakes-Ash
Last updated 22 May 2012
Highs
- One of my favourite hotels in 5 years of travel journalism
- The staff here genuinely care and this attitude comes from the top down
- Fabulous fusion food: Khmer meets European
- An admirable commitment to local artists and philanthropic projects
- The rooftop pool that weaves its way from indoor to outdoor with bridges, hanging gardens and recessed spas
- The flames that shoot from the entrance pillars at night
- Pre-programmed iPods in every room
Lows
- At 107 rooms it is larger than most i-escape properties
- The views from some rooms look straight into the houses of locals - not so private when the hotel windows are almost floor-to-ceiling
- No clocks in the room; this is so guests relax at their own pace but can be unnerving if you have any time restraints
- Hotel will be closed for extensive refurbishment from the 30th June 2012 for up to 9 months
