Amansara, as in Amanresort? The one and only. Adrian Zecha's ultra-deluxe chain that invented the oft-imitated but rarely paralleled concept of boutique hotels, has spawned another offshoot. Where this time? Their 13th resort - unlucky for some but lucky for luxury-lovers - is in Cambodia's historical hub, Siem Reap. Of Angkor Wat, World Heritage Site fame? Absolutely. Only 20 minutes from the legendary 12th-century sandstone temples, the hotel has been conceived as a base to visit Angkor Wat (far right), Bayon, Ta Phrom and the hundred or so other awe-inspiring ruins scattered in the area. The library is stocked with reference books on the sacred temples and Khmer history. Is the hotel as historic as the temples? No, but it does date back to 1962. Formerly known as Villa Princiere, the hotel was the royal holiday home of King Norodom Sihanouk, built to host state visits by foreign dignitaries. Anyone we might have heard of? Former French president Charles de Gaulle and former US first lady Jacqueline Kennedy have languished by the pool. And Peter O'Toole stayed there while filming Lord Jim around the ancient remains. And now? Its laid-back manager Toby Anderson is tight-lipped when it comes to naming names, but admits to having already hosted a number of international celebrities since opening a few weeks ago. Privacy is priority - the inconspicuous nameplate at the entrance is written only in Khmer and the solid metal gate is guarded night and day. Is the rest of the decor as minimalist? More comfortable contemporary, in keeping with the original 1960s modernist architecture which has been left intact. Twelve suites look out on to a grassy courtyard with a stylish black-tiled 17-metre pool. The 12 expansive, open-plan suites feature concrete-look terrazzo flooring (warmer on the tootsies), dark wood furniture, Philippe Starck-style baths, twin terrazzo sinks and glass-walled 'wet rooms' so you can shower while looking out on to your private courtyard and lily-leafed pond. What about food? Khmer fare (similar to Thai cuisine but not as spicy) is served all day in the circular dining room, once used by the king as a private cinema. Anything else we should know? Appropriately, the name derives from the Sanskrit words aman (peace) and aspara (heavenly nymphs). Road to Angkor, Siem Reap. Tel: 2255 2626 or [855 63] 760 333; www.amanresorts.com . Standard double suites, US$675 or HK$5,265; Amansara double suite, US$725; including transfers, breakfast, choice of lunch or dinner, all beverages and house wine, temple guides and a personal remorque (a motorised rickshaw) and driver.
