Sep 2

Sep 2 Shinta Mani Shack, Siem Reap

When looking for a place to stay in Siem Reap, I wanted somewhere that would be a cool and calm oasis to escape to after exploring the bustling town and ancient temples.

There are a couple of reasons I landed on Shinta Mani Shack as the best spot to kick off my adventure in Cambodia.

Not only is this Bill Bensley-designed boutique property - located in the leafy French Quartier between the Royal Gardens and the Old Market Area in Siem Reap town – home to one of the best-looking pools I have ever seen, a portion of my nightly room cost goes directly to the Shinta Mani Foundation.

The goal of the Shinta Mani Foundation is to improve the lives of Cambodians and Cambodian communities by giving them opportunities to overcome poverty. The charity has impacted the lives of thousands – building more than a hundred homes and digging thousands of wells but the organisation does other good works as well, including everything from bicycles to micro-loans to help entrepreneurs become self-starters, but the beginnings were born from the need for good staff. Shinta Mani is a true leader in responsible travel.

So, it was with a happy heart that I arrived into the cool, fresh lobby of this 2019 TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice winner after a flight from Australia and a hot tuk tuk ride from the airport.

All the senses are accounted for. Think bright colours, neon signs, wild sculptures, and of course… monochrome stripes everywhere.

The happy vibe continued to the room – all of which face the central courtyard with a large black and white striped pool. I stayed in a Poolside Garden Rooms on the ground floor rooms which allowed direct access to the pool through a set of French doors – perfection. Apparently the suites upstairs have more room but I found this to be plenty for my 3-night visit.

An afternoon enjoying refreshing drinks by the pool is an afternoon well spent. In the heat and humidity of Siem Reap, early mornings are the best time to explore the temples.

Delicious Khmer and international food can be eaten at the hotel’s restaurant Baitong or you can wander across the road to the sister hotel, 5-star Shinta Mani Angkor for a special meal.

There's also the laid back Bensley's Bar at Shinta Mani Angkor, the perfect scenic spot for a pre or post dinner drink, and a poolside bar to boot. I particularly loved hanging out on the black and white-striped swing seats for a drink.

I can also recommend a visit to the Shinta Mani Spa. Pamper yourself with massages, body treatments and facials in the most tranquil setting. No outside sounds make it into this space.

Service at the hotel is exceptional and the staff are always on hand with a bottle of water and refreshing cold towels after your adventures.

Shinta Mani Shack is perfect for those looking for a small, stylish boutique hotel in a convenient location in Siem Reap that feels more luxurious than what you are paying. It is about a 15-minute walk, or a 5-minute tuk-tuk ride, to the night market and bar area. The staff will swiftly get you a ride of your choice to take you wherever you want to go.