From star designer Bill Bensley's ultra-sleek design of this Siem Reap boutique hotel to its community outreach programmes, there is a lot to love about the Shinta Mani Angkor - Bensley Collection:
The Shinta Mani Angkor - Bensley Collection is less like a hotel and more like private clubhouse for the hedonist traveller. The third creation of the Shinta Mani hospitality group—the other two are mere metres away—opened last summer, and it’s hands down the city’s best new boutique stay.
It is also the first venture to be partly owned and operated by Bangkok-based American designer Bill Bensley, the go-to name for luxurious properties around the world including the Siam in Bangkok and the Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, among others.
Location, location, location
The property is set in a shaded compound next to the town’s royal residence, and it’s a 15-minute tuk-tuk ride from the temples. Surrounded by lush vegetation, it feels secluded while being minutes away from the centre and some of the city's most beautiful streets.
See also: 10 Of The Most Luxurious Villas You Can Rent In Southeast Asia
The property
The hotel boasts 10 very slick and sizeable one-bedroom villas kitted out with a private pool, outdoor patio and rooftop lounge area with a marble-topped bar and double daybed—all hidden behind high garden walls. Keeping with Bensley’s signature aesthetic, the style is “maximalist.”
A strong palette of black-and-white, dark wood, gold accents and grey furniture defines the overall décor, which combines both Khmer traditions (like a gigantic mural of the feet and rippling robe of 12th century Khmer king, Jayavarman, by the pool) and contemporary vibes.
Details like an outdoor bathtub shrouded by plants, a rainforest shower and a cabinet of free treats such as banana chips, sweet potatoes crisps and spicy trail mix—all locally produced—make for luxurious extras that make you feel a little bit special.
