Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas

Springing from the wonderful imagination of noted Bangkok-based designer Bill Bensley, Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas is a stylish blend of modern elegance paired with Khmer traditions, all layered with the his distinctive style. Approaching from the road, a long, high-ceilinged corridor fronted by lotus ponds echoes the hallways of Angkor Wat, though the black and white color scheme that permeates the resort is a bold, untraditional palette choice. While it is always difficult to unpick Bensley's thought process, one imagines this is his conception of what an Angkor temple might look like if built in the modern day. Beyond the design, Shinta Mani has much to offer: rooms, set around gardens and a pool, are accessed via a combination of stairs and paths evoking the underground passageways of Bayon. Inside, the monochrome theme continues from the bedspread to the furnishings, though special mention must be made of the ceiling-mounted photos of Angkorian temples, which transport you to the ancient complex as you drift off to sleep. The other highlight is Kroya, an all-day restaurant where you can sway on swing seats, indulge in a menu of local organic ingredients and international classics and, of course, reflect on the design.