Cambodia’s Most Storied Luxury Hotels, Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor, Are Set to Welcome Discerning Travelers From All Over the World as Cambodia Reopens
WRITTEN BY 5 REASONS TO VISIT® EDITORIAL STAFF
PUBLISHED MAY 2023 • 4 min read
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Two of Cambodia’s most iconic hotels, Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Pen and Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor, are inviting guests to experience the rich heritage of the Indochina region, following extensive renovations to both properties. With stunning cultural, wellness and gastronomic experiences offered at both hotels, this is the ideal twin-stay itinerary for those looking to discover Cambodia.
Source: Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor
Cambodia is currently experiencing a resurgence in interest from tourists, after opening its borders this year, and the renovation of both these Grand Dames will further complement demand. Cambodia is one of the top five most booked destinations in the region for luxury travelers this year and the opening of Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport in October 2023 will bring dozens of new global routes into this culturally rich and relatively unexplored country.
Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor
Source: Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor
Located in Siem Reap, Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor has reopened following a comprehensive refurbishment. Since it first opened its doors in 1932, this beautiful, luxury resort has remained a popular destination with explorers looking to visit world heritage site Angkor Wat.
Guests looking for deep cultural immersion are invited to observe early morning blessing ceremonies held by local monks, discover the art of lotus flower folding or learn how to prepare traditional Cambodian dishes with daily classes led by the hotel’s culinary experts. Old traditions that are ingrained into the local culture are reflected throughout the hotel at various touchpoints, such as the uniform of the Doormen, which is inspired by the Palace’s Royal Guards where the silk pantaloons change color each day according to the Royal Palace’s observance of the days of the week.
Source: Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor
Discover the best of Siem Reap through an enticing series of Raffles Curated Journeys designed to infuse local experiences with worldly elegance. Guests can explore the ancient Angkor Archaeological Park on a vintage Vespa scooter, before being one of the first travelers of the day to enter the temple.
Source: Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor
The resort has, for decades, celebrated the tradition of Afternoon Tea, served with a local flourish in the property’s conservatory with resident pianists. Guests are encouraged to stop for a pre-dinner cocktail at Siem Reap’s most celebrated drinks hotspot, the Elephant Bar, and sip on an Airavata, a captivating blend of rum, coconut, passionfruit, pineapple, lime juice and crème de banana.
Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Source: Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Raffles Hotel Le Royal is truly the “Grande Dame” of Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital city. Opened in 1929, the property has undergone an extensive renovation covering its 175 rooms and suites, restaurants and public spaces. A lush tropical oasis, an escape from the bustling city, the hotel is located a stone’s throw away from the culturally significant temple hill, Wat Phnom, and a short journey from Phnom Penh’s riverfront area.
Source: Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Guests looking for relaxation in the tranquil haven of the hotel gardens can find refuge by one of two outdoor pools, designed after the royal bathing pools of the King and flanked by vibrant frangipani trees. The Raffles Spa offers traditional Cambodian massage and healing Khmer rituals, complemented by an extensive fitness centre and a full hydrotherapy wellness suite with a sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.
Source: Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Restaurant Le Royal is the only restaurant in the country to offer guests a Royal Khmer experience, featuring centuries-old dining rituals and traditional recipes from the Cambodian royal family. This is showcased daily through its “Modern Khmer Cuisine” tasting menu.
Source: Raffles Hotel Le Royal
