Virtuoso Best of the Best 2009 - (Page 40) AMAnkorA Central and Western Valleys of Bhutan To say a visit to Amankora is a uniquely unforgettable experience is a gross understatement. Here, in the hard-to-reach Bhutan countryside, Aman Resorts operates five unique lodges, all in complete harmony with their environment and offering an inside look at the rich culture and beauty of this stunning region. Stay at Amankora Thimphu, in a blue-pine forest in Motithang, or in Amankora Gangtey, overlooking a 16th-century monastery – or in Amankora Bumthang, neighbor to Wangdichholing, palace of the first and second kings. The lodges offer countless opportunities to trek in the valley, visiting monasteries and temples. dIStAnCe FroM PAro AIrPort (Pbh): vIrtuoSo AMenIty Excursion for two to Tigers’ Nest, once per stay. In the know At the spa, try the hot-stone bath filled with local herbs after a day in the mountains. 30 minutes 40 AS I A & PACIF IC rAFFLeS hoteL Le royAL Phnom Penh, Cambodia Enjoying an international clientele, Raffles Hotel Le Royal is Phnom Penh’s premier luxury address and has long attracted globetrotting writers, adventurers and dignitaries. A thorough restoration project has returned the hotel to its original grandeur; today’s guests enjoy 170 guestrooms and apartments with tastefully chosen local furnishings and artwork. Five restaurants and bars are on site, offering everything from French to Khmer cuisine – do stop by the famous Elephant Bar for the Million Dollar Cocktail of Somerset Maugham’s “The Letter.” Of course, the RafflesAmrita Spa is lovely; try a traditional Khmer or Thai massage. dIStAnCe FroM PhnoM Penh AIrPort (Pnh): vIrtuoSo AMenIty Bottle of wine with cheese platter. In the know Visit during Khmer New Year (mid-April), when all the temples are decorated and the people sing, dance and play traditional games. 8 mi/13 km AMAnSArA Siem Reap, Cambodia Blending seamlessly into its mystical environment, Amansara lies in the former guesthouse of King Sihanouk – originally a getaway for dignitaries who were visiting the region’s ancient ruins and temples. Today’s guests visit those same spectacular sites, including spiritual Angkor Wat, through off-the-beaten path excursions by custom-made remork (mopedpowered trishaw). Here, 24 Indochinese-style suites offer private courtyards, and half boast private swimming pools. The Spa is a haven of tranquility, with its therapeutic Cambodian techniques offered in four dark-wood treatment rooms. dIStAnCe FroM SIeM reAP AIrPort (reP): vIrtuoSo AMenIty One 45-minute “Foot Cooler” spa treatment per person, once per stay. In the know At least once during your stay, be sure to get up early to watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat – simply amazing. 15 minutes
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