art and angkor
At this property, one is greeted by a striking multi-coloured life-sized painting of an Oriental lady whose face is created in perfect fractal symmetry by Siem Reap-based Belgian artist Christian Develter. Along with other pieces by Develter, the artworks here are curated by Australian Roger Nelson, a specialist in contemporary Cambodian art forms and styles. This body of aesthetic encapsulates the spirit of this recently refurbished property, located at the heart of Siem Reap.
Belmond La Residence D’Angkor is a sleek yet traditional resort-style hotel featuring rich and shiny wood in the property’s interiors as well as an abundance of tropical greenery that camouflages the bustling city beyond its walls. While the hotel’s 59-suites feature an abundance of teak, punchy silk cushions and traditional Cambodian design accents, the in-room technology is international and up-to-date with widescreen LCD high definition televisions, iPod docks, and alarm clocks for early risers.
The social centre of the boutique hotel is its inviting saltwater pool, an ideal spot to enjoy a cocktail or catch up on reading. Many of the hotel’s guests take the opportunity to rest, relax and tap into the city’s laidback vibe. At Spice Circle, where a buffet breakfast is served daily, there is an abundance of freshly pressed fruit juices like guava, cantaloupe and papaya as well as champagne for those who prefer celebratory drinks in the mornings. For those wanting to explore the city, the Old Market is minutes away as are restaurants, cafes and shops. Or head to where the friendly locals buy their produce, and sample the country’s culinary delicacies, many of which are both tasty and unconventional enough to warrant a return visit.
