BACK IN TIME

Heritage Suites Hotel provides an elegantly comfortable respite from the hubbub of Siem Reap.

Arriving at a hotel in a car that is significantly older than the property may not be unusual elsewhere, but this is no ordinary automobile and this is no ordinary hotel. The vintage Mercedes-benz once belonged to King Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia. Today, it serves as transport for the guests of Heritage Suites Hotel.

The car dates back to the late 1960s, while the hotel building dates back to 2006. The latter is modelled after a historic sailing club in Phnom Penh. Entering reveals a doublestorey space which serves as a lobby, lounge, bar and, a floor above, the Heritage Restaurant – where the refined Khmer Discovery Menu by chef Vibol is a must-order.

There is a sense of a village here. The lounge doubles as the communal hall for all to gather. A long path beyond – flanked by two colonial-inspired buildings housing a boutique, tour office and rooms on the first floor – leads to a clutch of villas hugged by verdant trees and anchored by a saltwater pool. Here is where the charm of Heritage Suites is most potent; the 20 bungalow suites cast a spell of old-world romance. The 55sqm suites are open plan, with freestanding tubs facing inviting beds and

The 55sqm suites are open plan, with freestanding tubs facing inviting beds.

outdoor showers just beyond. There are surprises: televisions, are supplied only on request.

Heritage Suites Hotel offers different ways of exploring Siem Reap – from glamping experiences in the countryside to supporting the Sala Bai Hotel School, an NGO that offers underprivileged Cambodians education in the hospitality industry.

Then, of course, there is the astonishing Angkor Wat Archaelogical Park complex. A site that should be seen at least once in a lifetime, it never fails to amaze. Compared to the historic monuments, the hotel may pale in grandeur, but it exudes a magnetic appeal of its own. Offering reception steeped in warmth and honesty, visitors first come to Siem Reap to see Angkor, but they return to stay at Heritage Suites Hotel. www. heritagesuiteshotel.com ≠

Heritage Suites Hotel offers different ways of exploring Siem Reap.

From above: dine in the warm elegance of the Heritage Restaurant; chef Vibol Boun. Facing page: enjoy a delicious breakfast by the pool.

The Bungalow Suites mix Asian elegance with art deco sleekness to create a private tropical hideaway.