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No wonder Adrian Zecha jumped at the opportunity to restore King Norodom Sihanouk's guesthouse in Siem Reap. Built in 1962 as the Villa Princière, this series of low-slung pavilions arranged around an irregularly curved swimming pool is a modernist gem. It's also within 15 minutes' drive of the vast archaeological park of Angkor. Interior designer Kerry Hill has followed the Amanresorts' philosophy of Zen-like simplicity: polished grey concrete, creamy stucco walls and rich, dark Asian timbers blend effortlessly with rattan furniture. All 12 spacious suites are open-plan, leading out to shady courtyards with lotus ponds. Amansara is the Sanskrit word for peace and the new hotel has neither a stress-inducing business centre nor a health club. The roof-side terrace overlooking the Siem Reap River is scattered with cushions, while the intimate library feels more like a meditation room. Service from the young Cambodian staff is attentive but unhurried; conversation is generally confined to dinner, so daytime noises amount to little more than birdsong. Rates are pricey but come packaged with half-board, house wine, a driver and tours to temples. Expect an extensive wine list, but not à la carte dining: a daily menu highlighting Asian cuisine is the modus operandi of chef Toby Anderson - 'It's like being invited to dine at Adrian's house,' he says
WHEN TO GO
The dry season lasts from November to April; the coolest month is January.
WHICH ROOM TO BOOK
Suite 12 is furthest away from the road
to Angkor.
CONTACT
Amansara, Siem Reap, Cambodia (00 855 63 760 333; fax: 760 335; www.amanresorts.com). Doubles from US$817
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