La Residence d'Angkor
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Soft elegance abounds at this colonial-style hotel, offering peace in the city, and comfort and hospitality in abundance
La Résidence hits all the right notes: lush tropical
gardens, delightful airy rooms, loungers encircling a cool pool and
colonial architecture that fits snugly in its place. It stands
across the road from the Siem Reap river with the old town a short
stroll west, but you might want to stay put – this is one of
those intoxicating hotels that pulls off the rarest trick; you
simply feel happy padding about its tranquil corridors and
paths.
Skip over a ribbon of water that wraps around the main house in
Japanese style and you enter a world of wood. An inviting
lounge/bar spills out onto the swimming pool terrace, while an
air-conditioned
restaurant
already slips into the garden in clement weather. Most of the
bedrooms horseshoe around the swimming pool, some with
garden views, others overlooking the river or pool. All are hugely
restful and come with a private terrace or balcony. As for Angkor,
guides and cars can be arranged, so pull yourself away from the
tranquillity and explore its endless majesty. Brilliant.

Reviewed by Tom Bell
Last updated
03 September 2010
Highs
- This is a big hotel that feels like a small hotel: there’s a lively feel to the place, but it remains wonderfully intimate
- The saltwater pool surrounded by lush gardens and soaring palms is a pretty good spot in the middle of a city
- Big bedrooms are a treat: spoiling, elegant and hard to leave
- A 7-minute walk to nightlife and restaurants, a 10-minute walk to Angkor Wat
- Fabulous new La Residence and Spa Suites and Spa open October 2009
Lows
- River rooms may get a bit of noise. We heard nothing and they are set back from the road, but light sleepers may want to take a Garden room, just in case
- The exchange rate at reception isn't too good; get your money changed in Siem Reap
- Views from some rooms are obscured by dense vegetation
Arguably the most charming and romantic of all the top-end places in Siem Reap...
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