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Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor
PRICE: Worth maxing out for
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, a name synonymous with history and elegance, stands proudly in the heart of Siem Reap like a stately guardian of Cambodia’s past.
First opened in 1932, this grand hotel has been witness to decades of change, yet it remains timeless, offering a rare glimpse into an era of refined travel. Just a stone’s throw from Angkor Wat, it is a property that blends colonial grandeur with an authentic connection to the region’s cultural legacy.
The hotel’s architecture speaks of another time—an era of exploration and discovery. The façade, a dignified example of French colonial design, is softened by lush tropical gardens that envelop the building, creating a sense of seclusion despite its central location. 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 steeped in history, but never trapped by it.
The grounds of Raffles are nothing short of expansive. The property’s 15 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens are dotted with frangipani trees and traditional Cambodian sculptures, providing both a serene backdrop and a quiet sanctuary. At its center, a vast swimming pool—said to be the largest in Cambodia—glimmers beneath the swaying palms. Originally designed to mirror the royal baths of Angkor, it is a striking feature that, despite its grandeur, feels entirely harmonious with its surroundings.
Inside, the hotel’s interiors are just as impressive, though they never shout for attention. The rooms and suites have been thoughtfully restored to retain their original charm while incorporating modern comforts. There’s an unmistakable sense of nostalgia here—the four-poster beds, the marble bathrooms, the vintage rotary telephones—but it’s nostalgia of the most refined kind. Soft silks in muted tones complement the dark wooden furniture, while large windows frame views of the gardens or the iconic pool. The effect is one of calm elegance, where history and modernity meet seamlessly.
Location, of course, plays a pivotal role in the hotel’s enduring appeal. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is perfectly situated for those seeking to explore the temples of Angkor, with the entrance to Angkor Wat just a short drive away. The hotel’s concierge can arrange early morning visits, allowing guests to witness the temples at their most atmospheric, as the sun rises over ancient stone. After a day spent navigating the ruins, returning to Raffles feels like stepping into a different world—one where the frenetic energy of Siem Reap gives way to a sense of quiet luxury.
And yet, despite its proximity to the temples, the hotel is more than just a base for exploration. The Elephant Bar, a colonial-era institution in its own right, offers a glimpse into the past with its teak-paneled walls and rattan furniture. Here, guests can sip a signature cocktail—the Airavata, a blend of rum and coconut milk named after the mythical white elephant of Cambodian legend—while enjoying the gentle hum of conversation that echoes through the space. It is, quite simply, a place where time seems to slow.
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is not a hotel that shouts about its luxury. It doesn’t need to. Its history, its architecture, and its setting all speak for themselves, offering an experience that is as rich and layered as the city that surrounds it. For travelers seeking not just a place to stay, but a true sense of place, Raffles remains, as it has for nearly a century, the epitome of timeless elegance in the heart of Siem Reap.
Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor: The Gallery
