Newly Recommended Hotels in Cambodia

It used to be that travelers visited Cambodia, spent a few days exploring the Angkor Wat complex and then headed off to other countries in Southeast Asia. But Cambodia is changing and there are more luxury resorts there than ever. Our editors found two wonderful new refuges: one on the outskirts of Siem Reap and the other in the wilds of the Cardamom Mountains.

Phum Baitang

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Sophisticated hotel on 20 lush, manicured acres that replicate the look and feel of a traditional Cambodian village. Wooden boardwalks crisscross the tranquil property, leading to 45 stilted villas surrounding working rice paddies (the crop is hand-harvested and gently worked by the property’s two water buffalo). Expansive Terrace Villas and Pool Villas are minimalist in décor but exceedingly comfortable.

From the editor: “The well-curated boutique is also an enjoyable place to spend time. Stocked with handcrafted Cambodian goods, it was nice to be able to take home something from this special place while also supporting local artisans.”

Read more about Phum Baitang.

Shinta Mani Wild

Southern Cambodia

Located three hours to the southwest of Phnom Penh on a private nature sanctuary, this ecolodge is set on an 865-acre site in a wildlife corridor between the Bokor and Kirirom national parks and surrounded by a forested landscape dominated by the peaks of the Cardamom Mountains. The camp is dramatically situated at the edge of a ravine and comprises 15 opulent tented accommodations erected on stilts. The personal project of the renowned architect and designer Bill Bensley, its interiors reflect his theatrical and baroque style, with public areas resembling those of an old-fashioned colonial-style safari camp, complete with brass fixtures, leather chairs, steamer trunks and crystal tumblers and decanters.

From the editor: “Overall, our villa struck us as a romantic private world, in which it would be a pleasure to luxuriate and unwind.”

Read more about Shinta Mani Wild.