One of Asia's grandest hotels reopens its doors

One of Asia's grandest hotel addresses - Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor - has just reopened its doors to guests.

First opened in 1932 and widely celebrated as La Grande Dame de Angkor, the hotel has welcomed guests including Charlie Chaplin, Jackie Kennedy and Michelle Obama.

Operating as a hotel for almost 90 years, hotel underwent a transformation in 2019 with rooms and suites receiving a facelift before the global pause in travel.

There may be an older vibe, but guest rooms feature Segafredo coffee machines, USB charging stations and Simmons pillow-top mattresses.

The French windows, which swing open to views of street scenes or the plantation-style grounds of the hotel, have been upgraded, and each room now has a writing desk and vintage rotary telephone.

"It is a magnificent feeling to bring this enchanting hotel back to life,” said general manager Dennis de Groot.

“The Grand Hotel is a national treasure, and its storied history is testament to Cambodia’s colourful past. It was originally built as a rest stop for archaeologists and adventurers seeking to explore the ancient kingdom of Angkor Wat.

"As we prepare to celebrate the hotel’s 90th anniversary this year, we are delighted that this hotel can continue to set the standard for luxury hospitality, where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family.”

Named after the year that Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor first opened, 1932 is the hotel’s latest signature restaurant, featuring Khmer cuisine.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is situated just a 20-minute drive to the doorway of the UNESCO Heritage temples of Angkor.

Designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard in a style that combines Khmer art and furnishings with Art Deco influences, the hotel has just 63 rooms, all with private bathrooms and was taken over by Fairmont Raffles Hotels International in 1997 at the invitation of Cambodia’s King Sihanouk.

For reservations call +855 23 982 598 or email bookus.siemreap@raffles.com.