Anantara Angkor Resort: A Luxury Gateway to Siem Reap
After savouring delicious dishes at the resort’s signature restaurant, Chi, indulging in locally-produced Stone Head craft beer at Road6 Bar & Lounge, and even taking a ride on the nearby big wheel, it wasn’t until our guide, Sina, took us on a sunset boat tour of Tonlé Sap Lake that we truly felt the soul of Siem Reap.
Nestled in the heart of the city, Anantara Angkor Resort is a seamless blend of luxury, culture and tranquillity. This five-star retreat offers the perfect gateway to the ancient marvels of Angkor Wat and the vibrant city life of Siem Reap. The resort’s architecture echoes the grandeur of Khmer design, with intricate carvings, expansive courtyards, and serene water features that immediately set a calming tone.
A Sunset Boat Tour of Tonlé Sap Lake: A Unique Cambodian Experience
A short transfer from the tranquil resort, we find ourselves walking through a village with our local guide Sina, who spends his days sharing the hidden corners of his hometown with curious travellers. The village is a world away from the bustling city centre and will soon be submerged as the monsoon rains swell Tonlé Sap Lake. Here, homes—hastily constructed from corrugated metal and wood—perch on stilts to guard against the rising waters.
We meet a fisherman who warmly invites us into his modest home, where nets and fishing gear take up nearly every corner. He shares that since the loss of his wife, his daughter has been his constant companion. Outside, nothing goes to waste—tarps cover windowless frames, and plastic buckets are filled with salvaged odds and ends, saved for when they might be needed.
Explore the Floating Villages of Tonlé Sap Lake
Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, is a vibrant and life-sustaining ecosystem, home to thousands of people. The lake’s waters teem with fish, making it one of the most productive fishing spots in the world. Along its shores, hundreds of boatmen wait for tourists eager to explore the floating villages. As we glide past these homes on stilts, long ladders reach down to the water, where children splash and play, a man showers beside his house, and families prepare meals—a vivid display of life intimately intertwined with the water.
Our dinner is enjoyed on board as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the lake. Small fishing boats zip past, their catch from the day secured, while lights from the village begin to flicker on, twinkling like stars as the night sets in. It’s a unique world, where the lake provides everything its residents need, from food to shelter, and even a place for the children to play.
The Chong Khneas Floating Village tour is just one example of the guest experiences on offer by Anantara Angkor Resort. While the resort is a treat in itself no one should visit Siem Reap without venturing beyond the city centre.
The Perfect Blend of Khmer Heritage and Modern Luxury at Anantara Angkor
Back at the resort, our Terrace Suite (pictured below) perfectly blends Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage with modern luxury. The floor-to-ceiling doors open to reveal a secluded deck and decorative pool, ideal for unwinding. The entire resort exudes tranquillity, and even with the saltwater swimming pool nestled among lush tropical gardens just steps away, the peaceful atmosphere makes it easy to forget there are other guests around.
Relax and Rejuvenate: Anantara Angkor Resort’s Signature Spa Experience
From the moment we arrived, the resort felt like a sanctuary. We were welcomed with a soothing foot massage by the spa staff. Despite usually avoiding foot treatments, I was amazed when my masseuse expertly pinpointed my stiff hips by simply working on my right foot. Luckily, the Anantara Spa offers a range of treatments inspired by ancient Khmer healing traditions, drawing on the essence of heavenly apsaras and indigenous lotuses to restore balance and harmony. The serene spa setting was perfect for a Signature Massage, and for those with more time, several thoughtfully curated wellness journeys are available to nurture all pillars of health and well-being.
Why You Should Venture Beyond Anantara Angkor’s Luxurious Walls
It’s easy to get lost in the serenity of Anantara Angkor Resort and never feel the need to leave, but doing so would mean missing out on the extraordinary Cambodian hospitality that thrives beyond its walls. Venturing out to meet locals, taste authentic cuisine, and book services not only enriches your experience but also supports the local economy and people. The hotel offers excellent recommendations for must-see spots and trusted companies, ensuring that your spending directly benefits the communities that need it most, making your visit even more meaningful.
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Fused flew direct to Siem Reap via Bangkok with Air Asia. For flights, dates, schedule information and the best prices click here.
