New History Tour at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap has unveiled a captivating new tour called the “Grand Path of History”, transporting visitors to a golden age of travel in Southeast Asia. This permanent exhibition utilizes rare photographs, vintage video footage, architectural drawings, and various artefacts to illustrate both Cambodia’s history and the evolution of one of the region’s renowned luxury hotels.

The journey is complemented by a new 160-page history book titled A Tale of Two Hotels – Raffles in Cambodia, authored by hotel historians Andreas and Carola Augustin. The book highlights both Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor and its sister property, Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, chronicling the early boom years of international travel and the key figures who have shaped it.

Highlights of the Tour

The “Grand Path of History” tour spans from 1900 to 1940, showcasing how steamships and early aircraft ushered adventurous travelers into Cambodia. It pays homage to hospitality pioneers like the Sarkies brothers of Singapore, synonymous with luxury travel for nearly 140 years.

This exhibit, exclusively available to hotel guests and curated by in-house historians, not only narrates the prestigious 96-year history of the Grand Hotel d’Angkor but also connects it with Cambodia’s cultural diplomacy during significant events, including early Royal Ballet performances in Paris and notable visitors like Charlie Chaplin.

Two Stories of Luxury

The book A Tale of Two Hotels – Raffles in Cambodia extends the narrative beyond hotel corridors, inviting readers into the grandeur of two iconic heritage properties. With vibrant archival imagery and engaging storytelling, it explores how Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor became pivotal stops for explorers and discerning travelers en route to Angkor and Phnom Penh.

Both hotels continue their legacy of luxury, having received prestigious MICHELIN Keys in the inaugural Cambodia edition. Raffles Hotel Le Royal was also named the second best hotel in Southeast Asia in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.

Experiencing Cambodian Heritage

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor serves as a sophisticated base for discovering Angkor Wat, beautifully combining 1930s French Art Deco style with Cambodian flair in its luxurious accommodations. It features lush gardens and a stunning signature pool, echoing the sophistication of its past, updated with modern comforts.

Meanwhile, Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh boasts 175 refurbished rooms, where classic French colonial, Khmer, and Art Deco styles meet in a timeless ambiance. The hotel maintains a commitment to preserving its heritage while welcoming modern travelers to understated luxury.

A Journey of Two Cities

Raffles Cambodia now offers a special seven-day “A Tale of Two Cities” stay, seamlessly connecting Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Guests can enjoy visits to Angkor’s temples and explore the “Grand Path of History” in Siem Reap while indulging in the vibrant cultural and culinary experiences in Phnom Penh, framed by luxurious stays at Hotel Le Royal.

The new tour and accompanying book highlight Raffles’ commitment to storytelling as a cornerstone of luxury travel. By sharing the history behind these remarkable hotels, Raffles offers guests the opportunity to engage deeply with the living history of Cambodia.