Shinta Mani Angkor, Siem Reap

Location

On a quiet, tree lined street with good access to everything in Siem Reap town on foot or by tuk-tuk. 15 minutes by tuk tuk to the temples.


Review

From its opening around a decade ago, the Shinta Mani resort played second fiddle to its more flamboyant big brother, the Hotel de la Paix as Siem Reap's coolest hotel.

In 2012 the de la Paix disappeared to be reborn as the Park Hyatt, Siem Reap. Shinta Mani meanwhile, a couple of makeovers later, is now the Shinta Mani Club. The changes have been mainly cosmetic.

The hand of architect and designer Bill Bensley is now visible across 3 Siem Reap properties - the Park Hyatt, the Shinta Mani Angkor and the newest of them all and just across the road, the Shinta Mani Shack (another name change).

We're not sure why there've been so many name changes. These are very cool places to stay.

Shinta Mani Angkor has 39 rooms across 2 room categories - Superior and Deluxe. It's considered a few notches up on the Shinta Mani Shack in terms of quality but the grounds at the less expensive property are a big plus.

Rooms at the Shinta Mani Angkor are modern with spare design. The original building may have constrained the superior rooms somewhat. They're just 27sqm. At 55sqm, Deluxe rooms are a much better bet for space and also feature a generous balcony.

There is a narrow lap pool in the central courtyard that is sheltered from the sun for much of the day. Those hoping for a tan take note.

The neighbours across the road at the Shinta Mani Shack, pay less for a much nicer pool and courtyard garden.

Staff at the Shinta Mani Angkor are excellent - every bit as professional as large international chain hotels, but with a natural warmth and spontaneity that big brand hotels struggle to retain.

Shinta Mani is actively engaged in local philanthropic work and donates $5 of every room night to its foundation.


Brief
Pool, spa, free wifi, restaurants, DVD and LCD TV, in-room iPod dock and more.