Amansara (the name deriving from the twinning of the word aman (Sanskrit for peace) and apsara (the heavenly nymphs of ancient Hindu texts) is nestled in Siem Reap, the cultural capital of Cambodia. It was once the guest villa of King Norodom Sihanouk. It is being transformed into a 12-suite Aman and provides the ideal base for both exploring the temples of Angkor and the sophisticated culture of the historic Khmer civilisation.

Amansara is set in its own established gardens and entry is via a drive that leads to the porte-cochere that opens to a circular reception. A covered walkway leads to a courtyard that contains the swimming pool with sun-beds and a lounging alcove. Adjacent to this is the Dining Room with its high ceiling and garden outlook. The Library is nearby and provides a variety of books, magazines, newspaper and audio CDs. A small retail gallery offers a range of locally produced handicrafts. Beyond the swimming pool is a grassed courtyard around which most of the Aman suites are located.

Located close to the Dining Room is the Library that provides a range of coffee table books, travel guides, novels, magazines and daily newspapers. Also on offer are a range of audio CDs, board games and a comprehensive collection of reference books on the Angkor temples and Khmer civilisation. Seating is provided on an extensive banquette or at reading tables and chairs. The Library is also fitted with a home theatre system that can be used for viewing audio-visual presentations and documentaries.

The Gallery provides a variety of handwoven silks, lacquerware, jewellery, local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, apparel and sundries.

There is also a Roof Terrace with casual seating on large scattered cushions. The terrace looks up to a canopy of mature trees and is the ideal spot to relax in the late afternoon and evening. Drinks, snacks, tea and coffee are available.

• Bar & lounge
• Business center
• Concierge
• Restaurants
• Swimming (outdoor)
• VHS / VCD / DVD / CD player
• Souvenir and Handicraft Shop
• Library
• Spa, Jacuzzi, Sauna and Steam Room

Cuisine
The Dining Room, near the swimming pool, is a focal point of the property and unique in design. It is circular in shape with a soaring seven-metre ceiling and has an informal ambience for dining or all day lounging. The menu offers both traditional Khmer and Western cuisines and features the freshest of seasonal produce. The dining room also features a walk-in wine cellar where guests may make their selection. Guests may also dine and snack poolside, or enjoy their in-room complimentary mini bar that offers a range of healthy alternative herbal drinks as well as the usual favorites. The Roof Terrace offers a seasonal alternative spot for early evening drinks or lunch, with cushioned seating and low tables shaded by trees. It is also an ideal place for yoga or quiet contemplation, especially at sunrise.

Library
The Library provides a range of coffee-table books, travel guides, novels, magazines, daily newspapers and complimentary Internet access via a Mac. Also on offer are a range of audio CDs, board games and a comprehensive collection of reference books on the Angkor temples and Khmer civilization.

House talks
Amansara works closely with knowledgeable sources in Siem Reap to invite visiting scholars for informal house talks and excursions to places of special interest. These sessions offer a close-up look at Angkor and Cambodia through the eyes of specialists in subjects as diverse as history, archaeology, architecture, satellite imagery, dance, culture and even puppetry.

Gallery
The Gallery provides a variety of hand-woven silks, lacquer-ware, jewellery, local handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs.

Spa
Four treatment rooms, each with an attached relaxation area and private steam bath and shower, are available to provide guests with a range of massage and beauty treatments using Cambodian techniques and natural products. All the treatment and relaxation rooms look out onto a reflection pond that is set against a 43.2m sandstone relief.

Swimming pool
Most of Amansara's suites are set around a central, grassed courtyard. At one end of the lawn, adjacent to a shady pergola, is a 17.5m swimming pool with sundeck. A 25m by 5m lap pool is also available closer to the pool suites.

Amansara has 12 suites, similar in design, featuring an open plan setting with finishes in terrazzo and timber. Colours are muted and earthy. Entry is to a combined sleeping and living area that contains a large writing desk and a king-size bed.

Khmer Village House
Amansara has a new Khmer Village House set on the embankment of the 10th century "royal bathing Pool" of Srah Srang. A 1/4hour drive from Amansara guests can enjoy a choice of four excursions in these special surroundings.

Suites
Amansara has 12 Suites, similar in design, featuring an open plan setting with finishes in terrazzo and timber. Colours are muted and earthy. Entry is to a combined sleeping and living area that contains a large writing desk and a king-size bed. Adjacent is a dressing area with hanging cupboards and drawers. The lounge has a large sofa, an informal circular dining table and chairs. Beyond, and leading down a few steps, is the bathroom which opens onto a light-filled courtyard featuring a water garden and cushioned banquette. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors offer views of the courtyard which features a small water garden. Each suite is air-conditioned, with ceiling fans and a music system.

Pool suites
Twelve Pool Suites feature a private six by five-metre swimming pool and are fronted by additional private dining areas beside a grassy courtyard.

• Air Conditioning
• CD Hi-Fi System
• In-Room Safety Box
• Mini Bar
• Telephone
• Internet Access and Refrigerator