Stepping into the multi award-winning Borei Angkor Resort & Spa, I was immediately enveloped in a warm and opulent Khmer embrace.
Words: Irvin Hanni
At the reception, I was welcomed with a special pandan (screwpine leaf) drink and a cold hand towel drenched in refreshing lemongrass-infused water. Scanning the spacious and luxurious lounge, my eyes were drawn to a huge and intricately sculptured lotus tree centrepiece, where, on a platform, a Khmer lady stood, playing a tune on a roneat aek, a traditional Khmer bamboo saxophone. This was definitely a unique welcome.
I was checked into the Landmark Room, which boasted hardwood flooring, classic wooden furniture and heavy green silk curtains. The room came with the usual amenities – complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, electronic safe, refrigerator and mini bar, as well as coffee, tea, and drinking water. To my delight, I discovered that the bathroom was not only spacious enough to twirl around in, but it even had a Victorian-style bath tub! Guests who are booked into rooms on the Privilege Floor have the added advantage of customised services, with perks including 24-hour Hospitality Desk assistance and car service, personalised tour services, complimentary massages and sunset cocktails, plus a mobile phone with a Cambodian SIM card for easy connectivity!
To unwind, I headed to the pool. Although small, its blue waters were inviting and the surrounding sunbeds beckoned me to lounge with a heavenly glass of Borei Paradise – a fruity concoction of mango and pineapple juice, and refreshing soda water – in hand. Though the hotel is located in the heart of town, the buzz of the daily grind was inaudible from within the three-hectare compound of the resort. This is a place for true relaxation.
Dining at Borei Angkor is a delightful affair. For lunch and dinner, the Borei Café has an array of tantalising options from traditional Khmer food to Western fare, while the Kasin Lounge offers appetising cakes and snacks for tea time or supper. I was lucky to visit when the hotel was celebrating Earth Hour. That night, tables were set around the poolside while the lawns were decorated with pretty lanterns and candles. Accompanying the three-course dinner was a captivating Apsara (celestial nymph) dance and a musical performance by the in-house pinpeat (classical Khmer orchestra). The best part was that 100 per cent of the proceeds from the event were donated to the Kanpha Bopha Children’s Hospital, which provides free healthcare for all Cambodian children.
The next morning I visited Angkor Wat, a must when in Siem Reap. It was amazing but walking all day was quite tiring. So, I was delighted when, upon returning to Borei Angkor, the staff gently reminded me about my afternoon appointment at the Mudita Spa – exactly what I needed after a busy morning exploring temples on foot.
While many guests opt for J’pong, a signature treatment that uses a herbal pouch of turmeric, cinnamon, sweet basil, mint, lemongrass, cloves and kaffir lime leaves to relieve stress and improve blood circulation, my therapist tailored my massage to the needs of my tired body. The massage she gave me was a combination of a Swedish massage and hot stone therapy, designed to sooth my muscles and utterly relax me. The scent of jasmine essential oils definitely set the mood and the hot stones worked out all the kinks and tension. I asked my therapist what the word ‘mudita’ meant. Apparently, it is an old Sanskrit word, which roughly translates to, ‘the joy of seeing others’ happiness’. I could see why Mudita Spa had won so many awards, including the Best Luxury Spa Resort at the 2012 World Luxury Spa Awards.
Later, I set off for a sunset cocktail boat ride, booked via the hotel’s Hospitality Desk. Waiting for me at the little dock along the moat encircling the Bayon Temple area was a tuk (boat) decorated with yellow cushions and drapery. To my surprise, the arrangement came with a spread fit for a king! Cruising along the quiet waters, I feasted on fish amok (a curry custard dish cooked in banana leaves), curry prawns, beef satay (skewered pieces of beef) and Cambodian-style pilaf rice. Just before the sun was ready to call it a day, we stopped by a little-known temple called Prasat Chrung, where I was treated to something really special – a first-class view of the sunset, away from the crowds. The view was all mine.
Experiences like this make a stay truly special. And of course, hospitality plays an integral role. Everywhere I went, I was attended by warm and courteous hotel employees dressed in sampot, the Cambodian national costume. I was told that to provide only the best Khmer hospitality, Borei Angkor only employs locals. The warmth of the Khmer people and their dedication to guests really came through, making my stay a charming one.
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BOREI ANGKOR RESORT & SPA
Address: #0369, Road No.6, Banteay Chas, Siem Reap.
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