Shinta Mani Siem Reap
Shinta Mani Angkor - Bensley Collection, the famed hotel architect's new luxe brand's debut flagship, opened its doors in December 2017, introducing a whole new level of elegant, world-class hospitality to the renowned temple town. From dramatic high walled sculpted façades with a monumental scale three-dimensional carving portraying the 'hands of meditation" to signify spiritual perfection, oversized 9-meter personal lap pools, and gardens with a rooftop living room, the 10 luxurious Khmer-inspired villas raise the bar and delight, surprise, and inspire their guests.
The Story - Shinta Mani Siem Reap is the more urban counterpart of the two Bensley Collection hotels. Having brought to life Shinta Mani Shack and Shinta Mani Angkor in partnership with businessman and friend Sokoun Chanpreda, Bill Bensley decided to take the Shinta Mani experience a step further with the Bensley Collection. An exclusive set of villas tucked away under the shade of none other than the Royal Residence's gardens. The Siem Reap property is truly Bill's ideal Cambodian experience – when not at Wild, of course! Each villa offers the utmost comfort and privacy in beautiful settings, with a design inspired by Khmer King Jayavarman – no less for the regal guests.
Shinta Mani Siem Reap comprises 10 private villas shaded by the gardens of Siem Reaps royal residence right next door. Each villa is its own oasis with a private 30ft pool, roof terrace, and outdoor bathtub in a private garden and, naturally, your own private butler. When (and if) you decide to venture out of your private villa, you will be pleasantly surprised by every detail of the Bensley Collection hotel, like the gargantuan sculpture showcasing the swirling robes of 12th century Khmer king Jayavarman, the vibrant streets of Siem Reap, and of course the magic of Angkor Wat, a mere 15 minutes away.
Guests in these opulent split-level villas luxuriate in tropical splendor beneath the canopy of Siem Reap's ancient Palace trees as Bensley Butlers create a flawless stay, ensuring that everything is exactly as it should be. Every aspect of the Bensley Collection experience is about personalization and providing the most authentic Khmer immersion; the Bensley Butlers can arrange a night sleeping under the stars, guests' choice of world-class cuisine, and tailored tours Angkor's dazzling temples and anything else they may desire.
Guests of Shinta Mani Angkor - Bensley Collection will also have exclusive access to all the facilities of Shinta Mani's other Siem Reap properties, Shinta Mani Angkor and Shinta Mani Shack, including two serene pools, the Khmer inspired restaurants, Bensley's Bar, and the Shinta Mani Spa by Khmer Tonics. In addition, Shinta Mani's culture of 'Open Doors, Open Hearts' reflects its commitment to responsible tourism and invites guests to open their hearts to the beauty of the Kingdom of Cambodia, its gentle people, and its fascinating culture.
Villas - Bill Bensley has conjured an extraordinary way to live – and sleep – through these regal two-leveled residences, set in lush private gardens. Each spacious villa overlooks its own serene green garden through floor-to-ceiling glass windows, with an outdoor bathtub and rain shower to spy on. Bold murals evoke Khmer King Jayavarman's robes' folds in the living room – famed for his pioneering spirit. So it's only right this trailblazing stay should pay him tribute: custom-made furniture, handcrafted light fittings, and artwork bringing Khmer lore to life. Even sleeping here is an indulgence, thanks to blissfully comfortable beds, Khmer-inspired bed sheets, personalized pillows, and golden bamboo bedside towers. The intuitive Bensley Butlers are there when they're needed, invisible when they're not. Traditionally trained and endlessly resourceful, the butlers work miracles with a smile.
Bensleys Butlers - Each villa comes with an exceptional Bensley Butler, here to anticipate your every need whilst also knowing the exact right times to disappear. All of the Bensley Butlers are experts on Siem Reap and will be happy to curate your stay to fulfill every desire – be it a massage by your private plunge pool following a long day of exploring Siem Reap, a rose-filled bath for a special occasion, or tips to explore temples rarely seen by visitors. Their services also include packing and unpacking your luggage to fulfilling dining requests and any other whims you may have. In addition, your Bensley Butler will suggest the best activities and excursions that suit your tastes and interests, ensuring you have a stay in Siem Reap, unlike any other.
Food & Drink - As tempting as it is to hide away in your villa, we encourage you to explore, too, especially since having eateries to steer you to, which we think you'll love. Try the seasonal, seven-course Khmer Tasting Menu (inspired by the local harvest) at Kroya, pause for a sundowner at Bensley's Bar, or sample a selection of fine Khmer beef farmed and aged locally at The Steakhouse. Alternatively, let the Bensley Butlers recommend a nightspot in the bustling Old Market area. "Kroya" - The house kitchen is poised to create breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in-between, just the way you like it. Summon your butler, and he will arrange for the take on Khmer cuisine, tailor-made for you in your villa – you'll feast like the Kings of Angkor. "In-Villa Barbeques" - The house kitchen is poised to create breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in-between, just the way you like it. Summon your butler, and he will arrange for the take on Khmer cuisine, tailor-made for you in your villa – you'll feast like the Kings of Angkor.
Rooftop Dinner - Say the word, and whether it's an indulgent breakfast in the morning sun, afternoon tea, or cocktails and canapés, your butler is poised to make it happen for you on your private roof terrace.
Adventures - Angkor Wat is far from the only reason to visit Siem Reap. Experience the vibrant and colorful contemporary culture of the people that live here, too. As beautiful as Angkor's temples are, the modern-day charisma comes from art, performance, food, crafts, song, and dance unique to this region of South-East Asia. Discover it for yourself. Borrow one of the bikes, always available by the front door.
Wellness - Spoiling spa treatments include the house-made Khmer Tonics, which can be taken on the rooftop or in the privacy of your villa. The simple, distinctly indigenous approach to wellbeing spans healing rituals to stress-busting and balance-setting therapies, which riff on traditional Khmer herbs and wisdom. Just ask your Bensley Butlers to explain the treatments. Of course, you can take home the power of the Tonics, too. The traditional recipes are bottled to create unique spa and bath products, with all Khmer community profits. Yoga and meditation can also be arranged.
The Foundation - The local villages are supported through the Shinta Mani Foundation and provide long-term employment opportunities to communities that don't otherwise have job prospects. In addition, working on an environmental education program will help local people better understand nature and coexist with their environment.