Review of Hotel de la Paix, by Caroline Major

Inspired by the Angkor Wat citidel, five-star Hotel De La Paix in Siem Riap masterfully fuses both ancient and modern elements in its design. You can't help feeling that you're a luxury hotel of the future. Columns of geometrically carved stone, the colours of café au lait, support walls which double as canvases for local artists. Ancient Hindu patterns are softened and refinished to the point they seem contemporary.

The facilities

In centre of the courtyard, a gnarled banyan tree serves as an icon mimicked in details throughout the five-star resort. Across from it the suspended "dining beds" capture the luxury hotel's air of laid-back opulence. From the excellent service, to the outstanding martini glasses encased in their own bubble of ice, the De La Paix is intent on creating a new standard of independent luxury hotel. Well-stocked minibars come with delicious home-made treats, perfect for a day trek through the temples. If you fancy a more substantial lunch to take with you, order before 2pm and it will be delivered to your room.

The rooms

The three room types of this five-star hotel are all variations on the same theme. The wooden floors are bordered with terrazzo and topped with knitted rugs in browns, greys and creams. Beaten silver statuettes of Apsara and of banyan trees gleam in lapis lazuli back lighting. Even the standing lamps reference the banyan tree theme, throwing leafy shadows around the rooms.
The rooms of this luxury hotel are modern but warm; edges are softened by lavish curtains and cosy pillows. In smaller rooms, textured glass sliding panels either open up the bathrooms for open plan living, or slide closed for more demure couples. Lovers should definitely make use of the tub with room enough for two (and the luscious pots of potions that come with it).