Siem Reap

Siem Reap is far more than the gateway to Angkor’s ancient wonders. With its vibrant arts scene, stylish hotels and warm, easygoing charm, it’s a cultural gem in its own right, and a perfect complement to any luxury journey through South-East Asia.

“Grander than anything left to us by Greece or Rome,” said French explorer Henri Mahout when he uncovered the Angkor temples in the mid-19th-century. Scattered across a huge area of forests and rice fields just outside of Siem Reap, the temples remain many people’s reason to visit. And justifiable so. From the serene grandeur of Angkor Wat to the enigmatic stone faces of Bayon and the tree-entwined ruins of Ta Prohm, this UNESCO-listed complex is one of the world’s most astonishing cultural landscapes.

Yet Siem Reap is more than just a stepping stone to Angkor. With its mix of historic and boutique hotels, dynamic culinary scene and thriving community of artists and designers, it offers a fresh, creative energy that captivates all who visit. Nearby Tonlé Sap Lake, with its floating villages and unique ecosystem, reveals a different side of Cambodian life, while spa rituals and poolside pampering provide a soothing contrast to days of exploration. Stylish yet soulful, Siem Reap is a stunning addition to any Cambodia, Thailand or Vietnam itinerary.