Phum Baitang, Siem Reap, true understated luxury

Greeted at the airport with a beautiful carved wooden sign, you know instantly that this is going to be something different. The hotel Land rover is waiting outside. Slightly taken aback at first by the choice of the car, but everything starts falling perfectly into place. Whisked through the stunning open-air reception area, without forgetting to present us to team we were taken to our pool villa and checked-in.  A perfectly effortless and very very pleasant arrival. 

The room was stunning, the large wooden floorboards, wooden interior shutters, beautiful furnishing and lots of little touches, making you feel as if you were in the guest room in someone’s home, not in a hotel room.

Everywhere the attention to detail is incredible.

The bathroom is just perfect. Two washbasins, huge bath with a beautiful view, huge shower, and separate toilet. Tonnes of lovely amenities, and more towels than you could possibly need. Again with these huge wooden floorboards which feel so good under bare feet, although there are fluffy slippers if you prefer. 

Plenty of hanging space and shelves, and the suitcases fit in the wardrobes so the room does not end up cluttered up with all your belongings.

Huge bed which was heavenly confortable. And a huge sofa and coffee table. Didn't turn the TV on but it is there for anyone who can't do without it. 

Aircon worked beautifully and no bugs to be seen, so no need for those horrible mosquito nets.

So much has allready been done, that you do not seem to need anything. Never noticed housekeeping, yet our room was always immaculate. Room service was good and efficient. The enthusiastic team genuinely looked proud to be there and so happy to be able to do anything for you.    

Plenty of dinning options as you would expect. The more formal restaurant is beautiful, indoor with aircon with a few tables outside. The food was excellent with a good choice. And the local dishes I found very authentic. The open air poolside restaurant where breakfast is served was also very good, with a more western menu, and a few asian favourites.  

The breakfast buffet is simply increadible and the choice is endless, with made to order eggs and hot dishes, fresh juices, fruit and just about anything you could wish to ask for. 

In Siem Reap although not in the town center. We found this ideal and very relaxing to be able to get away from it all ( Siem Reap is a crazy place).

The big advantage is you know you are going to get a good nights sleep. Once you are in your room, you are cut off from the world.

The hotel has Tuck-tucks to take you into town in less than 5 minutes and your driver will wait for you to bring you back whenever you want. 

So hopping into town for shopping, drinks or dining is completely effortless. You should not miss the main market (not the tourist market) it is huge and buzzing.  

I have staid in various Amans and Six Senses and plenty of other beautiful places, but Phum Baitang realy stands out for some reason. You have the design and attention to detail of an Aman, with the back to nature feel of a Six Senses combined with Peninsula class service (Pen HKG not Pen BKK). It feels as if the hotel has always been there, as if it is your sixth visit and that you know everyone, and everyone knows you. 

The main pool is beautiful overlooking the rice paddies and perfect for doing lengths in the morning. The setting is stunning and the sunset from the bar is faboulus (or is it the house cocktails...)

We are going back this year for our second stay and cannot wait.