Written By: Lakshmi Dhevi
If you’re looking for a unique holiday to shake away those covid blues, look no further than Cambodia. For those seeking to escape the ordinary and experience something truly unforgettable, this destination does not disappoint. For many couples, planning a getaway can be tedious and time-consuming, so we’ve put together everything you need to know to plan the perfect Cambodia holiday in the beautiful city of Siem Reap with your loved one.
Siem Reap is the cultural capital of Cambodia, also known as the temple city. Famous for the Angkor Wat temples, the world’s largest site for temples, also a UNESCO world heritage site, the temples are sometimes hailed as the 9th wonder of the world. Their ancient architectural marvel coupled with the sheer size and grandeur of the temples, make them an absolute must-see for those who are culturally inclined. Spend your days exploring the temples, and your evenings relaxing in one of the many restaurants and bars at the vibrant Pub street, or explore the night market to do some shopping for Cambodian buddhas and other souvenirs.
Siem Reap is home to several hotels and resorts, as it is a popular destination for those from neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia. However, we have handpicked two of the best resorts that we have ranked for two types of discerning travellers.
Anantara Siem Reap: Our pick for the best honeymoon hotel in Siem Reap
An iconic resort located very close to the Angkor Wat temples, Anantara is our top recommendation for five-star luxury at Siem Reap. Aside from the fantastic location of the property that no other hotel in Siem Reap offers (a mere twenty minutes from the temples), Anantara is also a haven for those who want to experience luxury after a long day of exploring the temples.
From convenient and complimentary airport transfers and delightful culinary amenities to the luxury of a personal butler for your every need; this is the ultimate way to enjoy the holiday by exploring ancient kingdoms during the day and being treated like royalty at night.
Our favourite is the private pool suite which features a beautiful plunge pool, outdoor shower, and even a private spa room. This suite known as the Henri Mouhot suite features two bedrooms across 235 square metres, featuring bold colours and luxurious silk from the coveted Jim Thompson. One can spend time in the solace of the library indoors, or even in the tranquillity of the jacuzzi bath. The perfect getaway for honeymooners looking for some privacy and seeking utmost luxury, whilst being steeped in the culture and romance of the ancient town. Aside from this, all the rooms come equipped with a private balcony that faces the lush greenery that surrounds the property.
For those seeking the best food in Siem Reap, Anantara also offers exquisite cuisine and particularly, authentic Khmer cuisine native to Cambodia. For vegetarians too, the menu is extensive and features a wide variety of food including American, European, and Asian cuisine. The Khmer curry is a must-try and is an explosively intoxicating dish bursting with flavours and filled with the goodness of a home-cooked Cambodian meal.
We particularly love Anantara’s signature private dining concept, Dining by design, which allows couples to also indulge in a private curated dinner under the stars, a unique signature private dining concept by Anantara. Customize your experience by selecting from a choice of menus or create your own with the help of your own personal chef. Dining by Design offers a journey that is utterly bespoke, undeniably romantic and completely unforgettable. In fact, it is also the perfect way to celebrate important occasions such as anniversaries, or even to make a proposal to a loved one under the twinkling Cambodian starry night.
The most enticing part of booking a honeymoon or vacation with Anantara is the convenience that comes with it. Packages such as the Discovery package, include daily activities, passes to the temples, as well as à la carte dining options. For those looking to explore the city, the hotel arranges exquisite and private guided tours of Angkor’s monumental heritage, as well as private market tours. Enjoy unrivalled immersion into Angkor’s rich culture and history, and customize your tour according to your preference.
We highly recommend also opting for a monk blessing which is a local tradition that is considered sacred for newlyweds, which Anantara organizes and is an unforgettable experience. For those looking for some adventure, we also recommend the countryside cycling tours, the ATV rides, the Angkor zipline, and the Angkor balloon which offers stunning aerial views of the magnificent temple.
A visit to Siem Reap is filled with all the makings of a fulfilling holiday – culture, adventure, romance, and luxury. An absolutely untouched paradise with the goodness of local culture and food, a stay at the Anantara in Siem Reap is sure to be one that is an adventure of a lifetime.
