SIEM REAP -- area code (855-63)

MEN's Near Wat Po Lanka, Utopia Map, 089-787-600, email. Five minutes tuk-tuk ride from the old town center and minutes from Angkor Wat (give your tuk-tuk driver the phone number above and he can call for directions). This exclusive gay men's resort has 10 rooms (deluxe suites and standard rooms) in a contemporary and stylish boutique resort. Free breakfast is served poolside or on the restaurant terrace and includes fresh baguettes and delicious homemade tropical jam. All the rooms are equipped with aircon, safe, free Wi-Fi, large LCD TV with satellite channels, telephone, and mini-bar. The guests can swim in the 18m long pool, lulled by the sound of their Balinese sea-foam stone water wall; or sculpt their bodies in the spacious and well-equipped gym. Guests have free, unlimited access to the attached spa and sauna area with steam, jacuzzi, maze, and private cabins. Enjoy your leisure time with local guys and tourists from around the world. Utopia Member Discount

Comments from Utopians:

"We spent a beautiful 5 nights at MEN'S last month. It's the only 'exclusive men' hotel in Cambodia. For gay travelers it's really the best place to stay in Siem Reap. After the tiring visit of Angkor it's really nice to find a peaceful place where you can dine and relax in the sauna. Everything is perfect, with smiling and helpful staff." -- MARCELERIC, Jan 8, 2012

"I stayed 8 nights. The room was very nice and modern decor. All facilities as restaurant and sauna. Very nice swinmming pool, staff, and a gym helps to get the best for your stay in this place to rest and to discover. The best place for gay travellers!" -- Jacques D., Nov 18, 2011

"We have just spent four magnificent days at MEN's; the service was second to none, the staff beautiful and efficient, the place clean and luxurious (but not expensive), and the management was there but not in your face." -- Don W., Nov 11, 2011

"I stayed 6 days in MEN's resort, which is an island amidst a sea of jewels. The temples of Angkor are AMAZING. At MEN's they booked everything: guide, tuk-tuk. The place is quiet, calm, clean, safe and secure, with the spa opening to the public at 5:30pm, just after the temples close, to enjoy the Cambodian night." -- Pittbull, Sep 22, 2011

"My friend and I stayed at MEN's and had a great time, MEN's is very clean. Great, friendly staff who are very helpful setting up tours, transport, or anything else you need. I stayed in a suite with a balcony (clean and spacious). I did meet the owner and he is very hands-on, making sure everything for his guests is perfect." -- rainy3021, May 5, 2011

"MEN's resort is a spectacular, hidden gem -- an oasis from hustle/bustle. We were a little nervous at first -- their website looked too good to be true. Boy, where we surprised -- from welcome drinks on arrival, to casual laid back atmosphere with amazing friendly staff, spectacularly clean rooms and premises, well-appointed facilities, great food and drinks, lovely pool, lovely facilities, great friends (new and old)! We did race off for half a day to see the temples, but rushed back and refused to leave the poolside for three days. Pierre (owner) and staff are amazing. I cannot recommend this boutique hotel experience more highly. It's a model and benchmark for the LGBT community to follow." -- TobyS, Apr 26, 2011

"We spent a lovely week at MEN's this month. The hotel is beautifully run by Pierre and Sopheara; comfortable, charming guys, a haven of peace and interest in this beautiful country. Can highly recommend staying there and using the sauna and gym. Thank you dear guys for a wonderful week." -- wolfrace, Feb 26, 2011

"Stayed at MEN's for four days. Great place. Fun sauna on weekends and perfect service. Siem reap is perfect for 3-4 day holidays." -- joshuayyz, Feb 12, 2011

• The Cockatoo Resort
  Wat Damnak Village, Utopia Map, 063-969-069, email. Gay-owned "country home" resort in a gorgeous heritage home and lush garden. Close to town and yet completely hidden away. Peter and Virgil have created an oasis for those who crave nature, culture, great food, and conversation in total peace. Gorgeous, private swimming pool. Rooms (no-smoking) are Asian-Deco style, with Peter's photographs. Virgil provides sensational home cooking with fresh, local ingredients. The veranda is the perfect place to shade during day or relax to a symphony of nature in evenings (frogs, cats, butterflies, birds, lizards and blue fireflies all find sanctuary here). Most charming is their Café-Bar Noir! showing classic films in an Indochine watering hole ambience. Free Wi-Fi, airport transfer and breakfast. Utopia Member Discount

  Ei8ht Rooms 138/139 Stung Thmey St (6 buildings from Romantic sauna and just next to Artisans d'Angkor), Utopia Map, 063-969-788, FAX 012-250-277, email. A small and discreet gay and lesbian-friendly guesthouse located just a short walk to the shopping and nightlife venues in the Old Market district and just a short tuk-tuk ride away from the magnificent temples of Angkor. Modern colors in clean, basic rooms with tropical-modern furniture and ceiling fans. Room rates start from just US$15 and all rooms come with aircon, cable TV, DVD player, in-room safe, mini bar and a bathroom. Well-stocked DVD library in the lobby, including gay feature films. Two free Net stations in the lobby and Wi-Fi in lobby and some rooms. Lovely patio garden in front and grass-huts on the roof for breezy sunsets. Their staff are smiley, helpful and charming cuties all who aim to provide you with a great experience, every day. Reliable and inexpensive tuk-tuk drivers are easily arranged through reception.

  Comments from Utopians:

  "After 5 years, Ei8ht Rooms is still a well-managed and charming guesthouse. I have been coming back here year after year and they never disappoint. The staff (Vesna, Samat and Ravy) and managers (Kifi and Simet) are really friendly and helpful. With such an excellent location (near to Romantic Spa, Linga Bar and Miss Wong), handsome staff, affordable room rates and no joiner fees, what more can a gay man ask for? I highly recommend this place, to anyone who is visiting Siem Reap." -- lesterlong, Feb 27, 2011

• Golden Banana B&B
  Wat Damnak area, Utopia Map, 012-885-366, email. Gay-friendly bed and breakfast. Located in a small lane just beyond the southwest corner of Wat Damnak, across the bridge from the Old Market, shops, bars, restaurants and nightlife. Second in the lane. Private garden setting with eleven stand-alone ensuite rooms with aircon, fan, safe and hot water shower. Bar and food from the very good Khmer and international restaurant in the lane. Laundry, 24-hour room service and security. Prices are inexpensive. All three Golden Banana resorts are located in a relaxed village environment, thankfully lacking the "Hey, Mister..." hustle of downtown. Utopia Member Discount

  Comments from Utopians:

  "Stayed a couple nights (wish I had stayed longer!) at the Golden Banana B&B. I knew it was the budget end of the Golden Banana mini-empire, so I thought there was a mixup when I was shown my room. It was gorgeous! Relatively spacious with lovely furnishings, on the G/F next to the inviting garden. You have access to the nice swimming pool at the Golden Banana Superior. I only ate one meal at their restaurant, and it was brilliant and reasonably priced. The staff are very friendly and want to practice their English, and they are all gay or gay-friendly. I met the owner and, based on all I read and heard about him, he's a passionate, dedicated man who wants the best for his guests and staff. Highly recommended!" -- cyrc_84, Feb 1, 2011

  Golden Banana Boutique Hotel Wat Damnak area, Utopia Map, 012-654-638, 012-885-366, email. Located in a small lane just beyond the southwest corner of Wat Damnak, across the bridge from the Old Market, shops, bars, restaurants and nightlife. First in the lane. Ten duplex units built around a pool. Each duplex has a living room and either a garden or private balcony. All are furnished in a comfortable Cambodian style with modern luxuries like TV with DVD player, Wi-Fi and safe. Gay-owned and managed, though mostly friendly straight guests lodge here (the Boutique Resort below attracts more gay patrons). Higher level than the B&B and excellent value for the money. This hotel wishes you to know that it is no longer associated with Golden Banana B & B and Superior which are run by a different company, management and staff. Utopia Member Discount

  Comments from Utopians:

  "Gay friendly, but not gay-exclusive. If you want to spend a nice, relaxing time in a small hotel in close company with straight couples and families, then Golden Banana Boutique Hotel may be the place for you. On my visit the intimate poolside bar and café setting was dominated by straight families. Management should look at making one of the sections of their 4-tier complex gay-only. The Cambodian staff are helpful and very friendly and should be complimented on their service." -- j888, Apr 22, 2011

  Golden Banana Boutique Resort Wat Damnak Area, Utopia Map, 012-654-638, 012-885-366, 012-287-988, 063-761-259, email. Gay-owned and many gay patrons make this their home-away-from-home. A private, garden oasis with huge pool and 16 multi-level luxury villas and suites boasting both rain shower and romantic outdoor baths. Open-air decks. Deluxe amenities: Wi-Fi, sumptuous beds, mini-bar, flat-screen TV, aircon and safe. DVD players available. Room service, poolside bar and Red Lantern restaurant offering a wide variety of western and Khmer favorites, with weekly chef suggestions. The airy, light-filled villas feature locally crafted furniture from sustainably-harvested palm wood, contemporary Asian art and Khmer hand-crafted silks. The resort utilizes a state-of-the-art solar hot water system. Complimentary breakfast. Transportation and tour guide services, assistance with local activities, and opportunities to contribute positively to local communities. Reasonably priced. This hotel wishes you to know that it is no longer associated with Golden Banana B & B and Superior which are run by a different company, management and staff. Utopia Member Discount

  Golden Banana Superior Wat Damnak area, Utopia Map, 012-654-638, 012-885-366, 012-287-988, email. Newest addition to the Golden Banana empire. Located in a small lane just beyond the southwest corner of Wat Damnak, across the bridge from the Old Market, shops, bars, restaurants and nightlife. Gay-friendly Golden Banana Superior offers 16 very inexpensive, clean and contemporary rooms with balconies in a colorful setting around a swimming pool. All the expected amenities at a budget price. Breakfast included.

  Hotel Be Angkor On The Passage, parallel to Pub St, Utopia Map, 012-246-912, 012-755-311, FAX 965-321, email. From the gay pioneers of Linga Bar comes this gorgeous, boutique accommodation exactly in the heart of Siem Reap's shops and nightlife, opposite Linga Bar and next to The One Hotel Angkor ("be" means "two" in Khmer). Just three private rooms, each designed in completely unique Cambodia Cool style showcasing the work of a different local artist. The room names hint at the eye candy to be found within: Bamboo, Saffron, and Sepia. Living area with large day bed, desk/dining area (your breakfast is brought to you at the time of your choosing), rain shower, and individual sun decks with views out over the tiled roofs of Siem Reap's heritage market area. Their Linga Spa for men is conveniently located just below on 2/F and fine dining is available in the Aha restaurant on G/F. Conde Nast Traveler Hot Hotel 2008. For the ultimate in luxury, ask about The One Hotel, which has -- you guessed it -- only one luxe duplex. Utopia Member Discount

  Hotel de la Paix Sivutha Blvd, Utopia Map, 966-000, FAX 966-001, email. Voted Travel & Leisure's #1 Hotel in Cambodia in 2010. Stylish and every inch designed to delight the senses (from the cool lemongrass breeze that greets you as you step into its spectacular foyer to the jacuzzi nooks hidden in a pool that makes you feel like you're swimming into Angkor's hidden secrets). Gay and lesbian-friendly and socially conscious, with a hip fusion of Art Deco and Khmer culture. Minutes walk from the nightlife and colorful markets. Their duplex rooms with massage table loft plus private outdoor garden bath and sunbathing patio are an OTT antidote to a long day of temple viewing. The garden courtyard bed-swings are the ultimate place to enjoy a superb breakfast. The art gallery/bar is always transforming and innovating. Spa, fitness room and wine cellar. They'll even pack a box lunch for your day out sightseeing. The hotel sponsors a local sewing training center for Khmer women (which you may visit), eco-tourism projects, and community support such as donating bicycles to area children so that they can go to school and pedal into their futures.

• La Residence d'Angkor (a Orient-Express Hotel)
  River Rd, Utopia Map, 963-390, FAX 963-391, email. This gorgeous, gay-friendly 5-star hotel incorporates beautiful Khmer architectural details. Located on the east bank of Siem Reap River, a short walk from bustling local markets and just minutes from the ruins at Angkor Wat. All 54 room and 8 suites are exquisitely appointed, with large en-suite bathrooms featuring an enormous free-form bath and shower with all amenities one could possibly imagine. Their restaurant, The Dining Room, is stylishly decorated and serves contemporary international and Khmer fine dining. Large swimming pool designed to reflect the romance and mystery surrounding Angkor. The relaxing, open-air bar upstairs is accented by contemporary ceramics and furnishings. BBQ restaurant (outdoor and indoor aircon seating) and pool bar along, spa and fitness center. Utopia Member Discount
• Les Fleurs
  50 Bos Taret Village, Utopia Map, 012-191-8097, email. Gay-owned rental villa on 4000sqm of private countryside 4km outside of town. Appreciate calm and nature. The villa (180sqm for 4 person maximum) has two bedrooms with bathroom, one open plan kitchen with bar counter, terrace, salon, one external bathroom. Bed linen and towel provided. Fish in their 800sqm pond (or enjoy your private swimming pool after a day exploring the temples. Free security guard, cleaning and washing. Enjoy a massage at the house and as your meal is prepared. On-premise management can assist during your holiday. Free tuk-tuk from to downtown. Breakfast included. They will welcome you at the airport or another point in town for free. Utopia Member Discount

  Mysteres d'Angkor Behind Wat Polanka, Utopia Map, 963-639, email. A gay-owned garden boutique resort tucked away in a quiet neighborhood behind a pagoda, 300m from the MEN's spa and sauna, close to the Angkor temples and a short tuk-tuk ride to town. 24 rooms, including two suites, surrounding a beautiful swimming pool and massage pavilion. Rooms are decorated in Khmer heritage style using local wood, silk and ceramics. In-room safe, shower, flat screen TV. Wi-Fi access throughout. Gay and lesbian-friendly and perfect for those who want a calm, nature-filled retreat from the busy city. Utopia Member Discount

  The Pool & Palm Villa 137 Tmey Village, 077-359-677, email. Gay-friendly hidden oasis in the city center. Exclusive, yet unpretentious, villa accommodation spread over a vast plot of greenery. Only 9 rooms available, so each guest will be able to have their own hideaway, either near the pool, the pond or in the garden.

  River Queen Guesthouse 421 Sivutha Blv, Svay Dangkum, Utopia Map, 210-015, 098-573-101, FAX 210-016, email. Gay-owned, GLBT friendly private guesthouse located opposite the river, less than five minute's stroll from the gay venues, Pub St, Old Market and the Arts Market. Relaxed and stylish accommodation. All rooms and suites are newly renovated in a modern deco/Asian design. Aircon and fans, en suite bathrooms with hot water, flat screen cable TV, free Wi-fi and unlimited cold bottled water. Some rooms have balconies or private courtyards. Guests and their visitors have private use of the roof top jacuzzies which include fabulous town and river views. Friendly and helpful staff are on hand to assist you with organizing tours and give helpful tips for wining, dining and clubbing. Breakfast included. Utopia Member Discount

  The Samar Villas & Spa Resort 115, Group 7, Phum Tropeang Ses Khum Kochok Srok, Utopia Map, 063-762-449, email. Gay and lesbian friendly luxury boutique accommodation, minutes from the gate to Angkor Wat and a short tuk-tuk hop from the shopping and nightlife. Two villas, two gorgeously appointed apartments (featuring original art by Yves San Laurent!) and five junior suites, overlooking a stunning black-tiled swimming pool and tropical garden. No expense has been spared to create an intimate, relaxed heritage environment complimented by the latest modern technology for personal entertainment. A barber is on hand to give gentlemen an authentic shave in their antique barber chair. Private lounges and terraces, exquisite food and drink, ethereal spa, cultural treasures and attentive service from their exceptional staff. Indochine cuisine with a French touch complimented by a superb wine list (what more to expect from the owners of the superb Restaurant L'Escale des Arts & des Sens?). Their Lounge Bar, the Fou-Nan, serves tapas and hosts shows of angelic apsara dancing. Tours and guides arranged for guests' interests.

• SiemReapRooms Guesthouse
  38 Phsar Krom Rd (200m from the Old Market), Utopia Map, 1220-8472, email. A small, well located, and friendly budget guesthouse. Eleven immaculately clean rooms. Free breakfast, free Wi-Fi included. Utopia Member Discount

  Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa Central Park (next to the Royal Palace), Utopia Map, 760-428, FAX 760-350, email. Gorgeous heritage luxury hotel right in front of the royal garden and river front, minutes from Angkor or the Old Market nightlife. If you are looking for the romantic flavors of 1930s Indochine, the Victoria Angkor preserves these charming details in its period lounges, antique elevator and Citroën touring sedans that transport guests, while offering visitors contemporary amenities and plush accommodations. Free Wi-Fi throughout. The beautiful garden swimming pool is a welcome oasis for a cool dip any time of day and their Spa offers a wide variety of rejuvenating treatments in both air conditioned calm or open air pavilions. The breakfast buffet is luxurious and its hearty specialties from around the world will give you all the energy you'll need for a day touring the wonders at Angkor. Traditional dance shows also take place. Utopia Member Discount

• Villa Shanti
  R90 St Svaydongkum Commune, 969-060, FAX 969-006, email. Small, gay and lesbian-friendly boutique hotel. Seven rooms. Located not far from the museum and 5 minute by tuk-tuk to the center of town. Utopia Member Discount

  Viroth's Hotel Street 23 (Wat Bo area), Utopia Map, 761-720, FAX 063-760-774, email. A gorgeous, gay-owned boutique hotel for those who are looking for a unique and quiet stay. A half block from the river and a short walk to the Old Market and nightlife. Seven beautiful rooms, with visually delightful Asian modern design, in a renovated 60s house with garden pool. Luxe rooms include a queen-size bed, writing table, Wi-Fi, cable TV, rainfall showers, ceiling fan and aircon, safe, and private balcony/patio. Relax in their rooftop jacuzzi with city view or surrender your worldly cares and woes to a masseur or masseuse in their couples' massage pavilian. Free breakfast on the breezy rooftop terrace/bar lounge. Refined Cambodian cuisine at nearby Viroth's Restaurant. The NY Times (July 2009) dares its readers "to find another hotel that is this chic and this cheap...".