Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa

The archaeological complex of Angkor

“I, Jayavarman the Seventh, have decided to carve the history of my empire in stone. Today, April 3rd, 1218, I begin these memoirs dedicated to the glory of my realm […] I! Jayavarman the Seventh, built Angkor Thom, the great city, capital of capitals. I built it for eternity – extract taken from the memoirs of the Khmer sovereign, Jayavarman the Seventh (1181-1218).

The reign of the last great sovereign of the Angkor period, Jayavarman the Seventh ushered in the construction of the majority of monuments which exist today at the archaeological site of Angkor. In the fortified city of Angkor Thom, we find the Bayon temple with its famous towers with sculpted faces, the temples of Bantaey Kdei and TaProhm, famous for its tentacle like trees whose roots embrace the rocks. Many filmmakers have fallen under the charm of these “immense and imprecise phantom basilicas buried under the forest,” in the words of French novelist, Pierre Loti. Scenes from the film, “Tomb Raider” greatly contributed to the interest throughout the world of these sites so rich in history.

On the trail of the first explorers

Overlooking the royal gardens of Siem Reap, a colonial style property opens onto the colorful stalls of the bustling main market, just a few steps from the old French quarter. The Victoria Angkor & Spa, a member of the Victoria hotel chain, was formerly an infirmary built in the 1930s and totally restored. It re-opened in December, 2003 as a five star hotel complex, which retains the charm of its late 19^th century colonial buildings when the French were present throughout Indochina. The French architect in charge of the product, Brice Belian, created a complex around the theme of the great western expeditions in the Angkor region. The suites pay tribute to the great names in exploration, taking guests back to the time when these illustrious visitors were fascinated by the majesty of the Angkor temples. The colonial spirit is present in the different interiors, along with touches of Khmer craftsmanship.

Time seems to have stood still around the hotel as witnessed by the 1927 and 1928 Citroen B14s parked next to a 1931 C6. The hotel manager, a vintage car enthusiast, offers guests “an unusual visit to the temples of Angkor” at the wheel of his antique vehicles. The Victoria Angkor, a peaceful retreat from the excitement of Siem Reap, is famous for its French “art de vivre” including “Le Bistro de Siem Reap” with its refined cuisine and the background music consisting of French favorites.

Recently opened, guests can enjoy the use of the complex’s new golf course designed by champion Nick Faldo, located fifteen minutes from the city center.

One of the Citroen’s B14s used to visit the Angkor site has a story to tell, having been used for the film, “A Dam against the Pacific” directed by Rithy Panh since the action takes place in the 1930s.