Amansara, the former guesthouse of King Sihanouk, is situated on the edge of Siem Reap just 10 minutes from the entrance to the Angkor UNESCO World Heritage Site. It derives its name from the twinning of two Sanskrit words – aman (peace) and apsara (the heavenly nymphs of ancient Hindu mythology). Set in a garden compound, the 24-suite resort has the ambience of a private home and is the ideal base for travellers seeking to explore Khmer culture and the majestic ruins of Angkor. A variety of temple tours and cultural walks is available as part of the guest experience
Amansara Guest Rooms Amansara has 24 suites, similar in design. Each enjoys an open-plan setting with finishes in terrazzo and timber, as well as outdoor courtyards.
Suites Rooms Each suite offers a combined sleeping and living area that contains a large writing desk and a king-size bed. Adjacent is a dressing area with hanging cupboards and drawers, a large sofa and an informal dining table and chairs. Beyond, and leading down a few steps is the bathroom with floor-to-ceiling glass doors which open onto a light-filled garden featuring a cushioned banquette. The bathroom contains twin vanities with makeup mirrors, a large soaking tub and a separate shower and toilet. Each suite is air-conditioned and offers Internet connections, ceiling fans, a telephone, room safe and music system.
Pool suites Rooms The courtyards of 12 Pool Suites feature private plunge pools measuring 6 by 5 metres.
Dining room Located near the main swimming pool, the circular Dining Room with its soaring seven-metre ceiling and shaded terrace is the focal point of the property. The menu offers both traditional Khmer and Western cuisines and features the freshest of seasonal produce. The dining area also includes a walk-in wine and cheese cellar where guests can make their selection, and a casual lounging area where they can help themselves to home-baked cakes on display. Guests can also dine poolside or in-suite. Every suite features a complimentary mini-bar with a range of alcoholic beverages as well as alternative herbal drinks and snacks.
Library The Library provides a range of coffee-table books, travel guides, novels, magazines, daily newspapers and complimentary Internet access through an in-house laptop. Also on offer are a range of audio CDs, board games and a comprehensive collection of reference books on the Angkor temples and Khmer civilisation.
Gallery The Gallery provides a variety of hand-woven silks, lacquer-ware, jewellery, local handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs available for purchase.
Roof terrace The Roof Terrace offers a seasonal alternative spot for early evening drinks or lunch, with cushioned seating and low tables shaded by trees. It is also an ideal place for yoga or quiet contemplation, especially at sunrise.
Spa Four treatment rooms, each with an attached relaxation area and private steam bath and shower, are available to provide guests with a range of massage and beauty treatments using Cambodian techniques and Aman’s own natural spa product range. All the treatment and relaxation rooms look out onto a reflection pond that is set against a 43.2 metre sandstone relief. The reception area overlooks a garden featuring an ancient rain tree.
Swimming & lap pools Twelve of Amansara’s suites are set around a central, grassed courtyard. At one end of the lawn, adjacent to a shady pergola and cushioned alcove is a 17.5-metre curved swimming pool with sundeck and loungers. Discreetly removed from view behind a 6-metre wall at the other end of the Pool Suites’ courtyard is a 25 by 5 metre lap pool.
Wireless broadband Wireless broadband connections are available throughout the resort.
GETTING THERE Visas: Tourist Visas are required and can be obtained in advance or upon arrival at the airport in Siem Reap. A doctor is on call at Amansara 24 hours a day.
Airport: Siem Reap (REP) - The daily flights are operated by Bangkok Airways or Vietnam Airlines. From Singapore, Silk Air flies thrice weekly. The flight takes approximately two hours and 10 minutes. The return flight takes a little longer as it travels via Phnom Penh, the capital. International flights are also scheduled to Laos and Vietnam. Domestic air travel is mostly to and from Phnom Penh, however there are flights frequently scheduled to the smaller towns throughout Cambodia. |