Amansara

Yet another creation of prolific 20th-century builder King Norodom Sihanouk, Amansara has had many different names over the years. When it first opened in 1963, it was christened Villa Princière, its modest yet stylish low-rise buildings welcoming members of the royal family and their guests.

In the 1970s, it became Villa Sokha, before it was devastated by war, then the 1980s saw a slight rebirth as Villa Apsara, before abandonment in the ’90s. By the time Aman arrived in 2002, there was not much left but a shell, though an extensive and painstaking restoration was made using old photos as reference, resulting in the return of the 1960s glory years.

Modern design elements bring it into the 21st century, as do a new lap pool, spa and gym. However, the mystique remains — after passing through an unmarked black gate, you are welcomed at the original reception building, while the K-shaped pool still provides a refuge after a day spent touring the ruins of Angkor, before a dinner under the dome of the resort's distinctive circular restaurant.