Going camping
Camping can be a divisive subject. Some like the experience of being in the wild, in the rough, while some can’t see why anyone would subject themselves to a stay that does not involve five-star luxuries. Boutique retreat Heritage Suite Hotels in Siem Reap, Cambodia, invites you to combine the two in its Luxury Tented Camp experience, which begins 15 December and extends all the way until 28 February 2017.
The Luxury Tented Camp experience commences with a morning tour of the Cambodian countryside in a Jeep accompanied by a driver and guide to discover local villages, hidden temples and archaeological wonders such as Prei Monti and Beng Mealea on the way to the camp site. Sustenance will be provided along the way with a picnic lunch in a unique spot: Poeung Komnou, surrounded by ancient Hindu carvings and lush greenery. Then on the road once again, to the glamping site, where a cooling cocktail sets the tone for one magical night. The ‘tents’ are each set up on 5x10m wooden platforms, with luxurious amenities that provide minimum fuss and maximum relaxation. With verandahs designed for basking in the outdoors and amenities from Cambodian botanicals brand Bodia Nature, tearing yourself away from the splendour of the unspoilt surroundings for dinner is tough. Heritage Restaurant at Heritage Suites Hotels, however, will tame temptation with a gourmet dinner served in the soft, flickering glow of hundreds of candles and tealights.
As morning breaks, a hearty breakfast will be prepared before a trip to the nearby village in a traditional ox cart. It’s an unforgettable outing that will banish any doubts you ever have about camping.
The Heritage Suites Hotel’s Luxury Tented Experience Camp is priced per tent for a 2 day, 1 night package, from US$1,695/RM7,475 (1 tent), US$1,490/RM6,110 (2 tents), US$1,295/RM5,711 (3 tents), US$1,095/RM4,829 (4 tents) and US$965/RM4,255 (5 tents). The experience runs until 28 February 2017 this season,