For travelers visiting Cambodia seeking a luxurious experience full of unforgettable moments, look no further. Choose these two opulent hotels, steeped in history. Marvel at the spectacle of Angkor Wat at sunrise, savor refined Khmer cuisine, and unwind with bespoke spa treatments to relax your mind, body, and soul. In Cambodia, no pair of hotels boasts a history quite like the esteemed Raffles properties, one in Siem Reap and the other in Phnom Penh. For nearly a century, these havens of refined luxury have been the choice for world leaders, luminaries, and esteemed travelers. Experience lavish luxury, rich history, and first-rate service combining to create a luxury sanctuary you’ll never want to leave.
Stay at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Siem Reap
Our first stop was the iconic Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap, originally built in 1932 during the French colonial period. It quickly became a symbol of elegance and sophistication in the region. The architecture, grand facade, and tranquil lobby reflect the colonial style of the time, blending Khmer and French influences seamlessly. Despite Cambodia’s troubled history, which caused multiple closures during political unrest, the hotel was meticulously restored and reopened in 1997, marking a new era of luxury hospitality. Its luxury was further enhanced by a significant refurbishment project during the global pandemic, introducing brand new rooms and suites in 2022 to celebrate its incredible 90 years in the Kingdom.
Dining at 1932 is a must when staying at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Siem Reap. This elegant fine dining restaurant offers a culinary journey through four meticulously crafted menus, each celebrating a decade of Cambodia’s rich history. These tasting menus feature local seasonal produce, particularly the plant-based ‘Grand Renaissance’ menu, celebrating the 1950s when Cambodia gained independence. Our meal was a sublime blend of culinary creativity and Khmer flavors, with traditional Cambodian dishes elevated and adapted to make them vegan. The smoky eggplant atop Khmer rice cakes, a light and refreshing reimagined ‘nom banh chok,’ the rich and creamy amok, and the trio of palm sugar-filled ‘nom pla ai’ each took us on a delightful journey through Cambodian cuisine history.
Stay at Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh
After leaving Siem Reap post-breakfast, we arrived at Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh just in time for a late lunch. This luxury hotel is a true gem in Cambodia’s hospitality landscape, intertwined with Cambodian high society and colonial legacy. Originally opened in 1929, it quickly became a luxurious retreat for visiting royalty and dignitaries. Despite periods of political instability and varied uses during the Khmer Rouge era, the hotel symbolized resilience. Following meticulous restoration, modernisation, and refurbishment, Raffles Hotel Le Royal reopened in 1997, blending historic elegance with contemporary luxury. Nowadays, it stands as an iconic landmark in Phnom Penh, offering opulent accommodations, unparalleled service, and refined dining experiences for those wishing to experience Cambodia’s rich history.
Le Phnom 1929, the French-styled brasserie at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, treated us to long, lazy breakfasts with tropical juices, strong coffee, and freshly baked traditional breads. The attentive staff happily created off-menu dishes for our vegan dietary requirements, ensuring we were very well catered for. At lunch, the clearly marked vegan options included a vegetable tian with flaxseed dressing and a simply divine cauliflower steak on a bed of velvety pumpkin mash with sauce vierge—a light, flavorful, and perfectly plant-based dish.
Relax at Raffles Spa
Both Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Siem Reap offer exquisite spa facilities, as expected from prestigious hotels. Relax your mind, body, and soul in the sauna, steam, and jacuzzi before pampering yourself in a luxuriously appointed treatment room. We felt revitalized and rejuvenated after our aromatherapy massages, the perfect antidotes to exploring Angkor temples or bustling Phnom Penh streets. A spa visit is a must during your stay.
Check in at Raffles in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to enjoy luxury living in Cambodia at its finest. These historic hotels combine timeless elegance with unparalleled service, ensuring your stay leaves lasting memories. From opulent rooms and suites to refined dining experiences, every aspect is meticulously curated to exceed expectations. Raffles is committed to preserving and respecting Cambodia’s rich history, making it the premier choice for ultimate Cambodian indulgence and luxury living.