Stays That Slay: Cambodia & Laos

Our Cambodia & Laos: Buddhist Sites & City Nights tour focuses on three of Southeast Asia’s most iconic destinations: Luang Prabang, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. To best enjoy these sites, we’ve booked a trio of opulent hotels previewed below.

Colonial splendour in the heart of Luang Prabang

Transport yourself back in time while slumbering in the former residence of royalty.

In the heart of UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang you’ll find our first astounding accommodation, Villa Maly. This exquisite slice of Southeast Asian heaven was the former residence of Luang Prabang royalty and still evokes a sense of Colonial resplendence.

Surrounded by tropical gardens, the property gives you the sense you’re staying in a private villa. In the centre of the property you’ll find a stunning pool lined on all sides with luxurious lounge chairs. A lemongrass-scented spa offers visitors a quiet escape after a long day of touring.

In terms of design, Villa Maly is a boutique hotel with a distinct Art Deco style. Every room is outfitted with a blend of Colonial French and British furniture. The Superior Rooms we’ve reserved feature one king bed or two twin beds with mosquito nets, mahogany armoires and ceiling fans. The flat-screen TVs, air conditioning and free WiFi are just the lychee on top.

Phnom Penh’s premiere ‘urban resort’

Aquarius Hotel is a modern gem in an otherwise historic city.

Downtown Phnom Penh you’ll find Aquarius Hotel & Urban Resort, our second accommodation on this Flex Tour. You’ll be immediately enamoured by this sophisticated hotel’s modern design. Exposed brick walls, concrete floors and brass pipes are a smart backdrop for contemporary Khmer art. The hotel’s tropical potted plants nicely balance out the hotel’s heavier design elements.

Every room at Aquarius is smartly designed in a similarly modern style. The bathrooms are of particular note thanks to their clean, white tiling, porcelain amenities and glass showers.

Last but far from least is the gorgeous rooftop bar, complete with a salt-water infinity pool that needs to be seen to be believed. Fair warning: one cocktail up here and you may never leave!

Khmer decadence in Siem Reap

Our final hotel celebrates the country’s past and present.

To wrap up your vacation we’ve booked poolside suites at a boutique resort 15-minutes from Angkor Archaeological Park. After a hard day snapping selfies at the ancient site, you’ll definitely want to wade in said pool’s salty waters or indulge in a Khmer massage at the hotel spa.

In contrast to our industrial Phnom Penh accommodation, this hotel is inspired by Cambodia’s lush jungles, Khmer people and history. Centuries-old banyon trees shade the courtyard while artisanal textiles and apsara sculptures decorate the interior. Stylish and spacious rooms open directly onto the pool.

Finally, the hotel’s two inspired restaurants (Scribe and The Mansion) offer visitors a sumptuous taste of Southeast Asia. While Scribe specializes in grilled foods and exciting cocktail pairings, The Mansion celebrates classic Khmer cuisine as well as Asian-fusion.

Photo Credits

All photos courtesy of Villa Maly, Aquarius Hotel & Urban Resort, and FCC Angkor by Avani.

Uncover the history of South East Asia on our Cambodia & Laos: Buddhist Sites & City Nights tour.