Angkor Village, one of the oldest names in Siem Reap's tourism landscape, is celebrating its 30th anniversary. This milestone marks not just the company's longevity, but also stands as a testament to Cambodia's remarkable transformation from a recovering nation to a thriving tourist destination.
Founded in 1994, Angkor Village began as a small, 20-room hotel in a sleepy Siem Reap. Back then, the dirt paths and quiet ruins of Angkor were a stark contrast to the bustling tourist hub the city has become. Despite this, a couple of young French architects, captivated by the town's charm, took a chance.
Their vision, fuelled by a belief in Cambodia's potential, blossomed into a collection encompassing the Angkor Village Hotel, the elegant Angkor Village Resort, the captivating Apsara Theatre – which showcases traditional Cambodian dance – and the Kulen Elephant Forest, a haven for retired elephants.
Angkor Village's journey mirrors Cambodia's own. In the early 1990s, the country was still recovering from years of turmoil. The majestic Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and future tourist magnet, was only just beginning to regain international attention.
Angkor Village's establishment at this crucial juncture was a beacon of hope, demonstrating a strong belief in Cambodia's potential as a tourist destination.
As Cambodia emerged from its tragic past, Angkor Village evolved alongside it. The company witnessed the transformation of Siem Reap from a sleepy provincial town to a vibrant tourist hub, experiencing firsthand the improved infrastructure, political stability and a burgeoning hospitality sector.
Today, Angkor Village stands as a testament to this progress, with its team being the first in Cambodia to join the prestigious "Small Luxury Hotels of the World".
Throughout its journey, Angkor Village has remained true to its core values – showcasing the authentic beauty of Cambodia, its rich culture, its breathtaking nature, and its warm-hearted people. This philosophy has resonated with guests, transforming the little hotel into a collection of ventures dedicated to immersive experiences.
As Angkor Village celebrates its 30th anniversary, it looks forward to a future which is brimming with possibilities. Cambodia's tourism industry is on a steady recovery path, attracting visitors from across the globe.
This anniversary is not just a milestone for the company, but a celebration of Cambodia's remarkable journey. It's a story of perseverance, progress, and the promise of a bright future for the country's tourism industry, with Angkor Village remaining a symbol of its evolution and continued success.