Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor
PRICE: Worth maxing out for
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, located in the heart of Siem Reap, is a landmark property that blends colonial-era grandeur with Khmer influences.
Opened in 1932, the hotel features an iconic façade, manicured gardens, and a 35-metre lap pool tiled in original green sandstone. Its interiors showcase polished wood floors, high ceilings, and Art Deco details, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance.
The hotel offers 119 rooms and suites, each with period furnishings, curated artworks, and views of either the gardens, pool, or Royal Independence Gardens. The whitewashed walls and louvered shutters, reminiscent of the grand colonial hotels of Southeast Asia, are accented by dark wood and brass touches that lend an air of understated sophistication. As you step through its imposing doors, the high ceilings and polished floors create an immediate sense of space and light, while the Art Deco details remind you that this is a place rich in history.
The expansive grounds of Raffles include 15 acres of thoughtfully designed gardens, dotted with frangipani trees and traditional Cambodian sculptures. At its center, a vast swimming pool designed to mirror the royal baths of Angkor glimmers beneath massive palm trees.
Inside, the rooms and suites have been carefully restored to retain their original charm while incorporating modern comforts, including four-poster beds, marble bathrooms, and vintage rotary telephones. Soft silks in muted tones complement the dark wooden furniture, while large windows frame views of the gardens or the iconic pool.
Service is meticulous and unobtrusive, with staff coordinating personalised excursions to Angkor Wat, guided city tours, and cultural activities such as Apsara dance performances or local cooking classes. The hotel’s central location provides convenient access to Siem Reap’s attractions, including the Old Market and Angkor National Museum.
Guests can also indulge in the signature Restaurant Le Grand, known for its traditional Khmer menu and wine pairings. After a traditional meal, visit the Elephant Bar, a renowned spot for cocktails and afternoon tea. Here, guests can try the Airavata, a blend of rum and coconut milk named after the mythical white elephant of cambodian legend. Other amenities include the Raffles Spa, offering traditional treatments and wellness therapies, and a fitness centre.