by Le Concierge Orient
jaya house river park siem reap
A FHA Hospitality landmark hotel
The Background - Raised along the bank of Siem Reap River, a medieval channel constructed during the Angkorian period, Jaya House River Park is truly a hidden gem. The diminutive 36-key resort is stylishly appointed with two swimming pools, a spa and an all-day-dining restaurant, and at the core of its establishment is a service orientation so stunningly masterful, it has its pride of place amongst a tiny coterie of superlatives making up the Hospitality Landmarks of Asia. The decor and milieu of this tropical hideaway is eclectically whimsical with enigmatic Cambodian antiques and artworks standing next to handmade floral chairs and hanging crystal balls. The piece de resistance is doubtlessly the transcendent ‘Christmas Tree’ light installation comprising 24,000 handpicked, individually suspended black rocks collected from across Cambodia. Bold geometric lines run across the interiors and facade, juxtaposing splendidly with the tropical sumptuousness that rises up and cascades down rooftops, patios and stairways throughout the property. The rooms and suites are minimally but tastefully furnished, with elegant lotus blooms, fresh fruits and weathered looking books strewn around for the ‘at-home’ effect. Every room has a patio overlooking the lush garden and placid pool in the courtyard. Under the stewardship of General Manager Christian de Boer, environmental concerns are etched deep into the operational DNA of Jaya House River Park - this hospitality landmark is one of the earliest hotels to be declared plastic free (close to a decade ago where plastic waste was rampant across the industry), and continues to promote its ‘Refill Not Landfill’ global campaign to reduce single-use plastic drinking bottles and other single-use plastic waste. The stretch of trees along the river in the neighbourhood was also planted by the staff of the hotel, thus the relevance of ‘River Park’ in its name.
The Gourmet & Wellness Index - Trorkuon Khmer Restaurant dishes out vegan friendly Khmer cuisine and classic Western cuisine amidst an elegant milieu while tranquil River Park Spa offers massages and treatments refined from ancient Khmer and South-East Asian wellness traditions, with its own carefully formulated handmade botanical skincare products made from natural extracts, butter, and essential oils.
The Service - Friendly, expedient and fastidious, every member of this Hospitality Landmark is instilled with clarity what his or her job entails. While there is a manor-ish feel to this establishment, the mood is intimate and and cozy, even though it is clear that saying no to a guest isn't part of the job description from the very start.