Elite Traveler Spring 2022

RISE WITH THE SUN SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA

Angkor Wat is the largest religious temple complex in the world and, as such, is a popular destination for intrepid travelers who want to see the unmistakable structure in real life. You can visit without the hordes of tourists by embarking on a seriously special fl ight, courtesy of Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang. Rise with the morning sun and gently fl oat over the sacred temples on board a hot air balloon. An otherworldly, spiritual experience in the sky awaits as you admire the structure below in complete solitude. Watch the sun paint the sky in mesmerizing shades of orange and pink, illuminating the temple. Arrive back at the hotel and visit the Spa Temple for more spiritual serenity — there’s a sauna, steam room, yoga pavilion, gym and a 164-ft outdoor in fi nity pool. Book The Angkor – Temples Ritual, a 90-minute ‘miraculous transformation’ inspired by Khmer traditions. (After a long day standing in water tending to rice paddies, rice farmers would have hand-crushed spices applied to their legs to soothe their tired muscles.) The ritual begins with an herbal foot soak, followed by a nurturing, warm herbal leg compress massage before a masque of freshly crushed ginger, turmeric, nutmeg and cloves is applied with a warm leaf cocoon wrapping. Acupressure and re fl exology are performed on tired feet to help improve posture alignment and range of motion, as well as helping with pain management and encouraging lymphatic drainage. From $690 per night. Contact Giulio D’Alberto, general manager, reservations@phumbaitang.com, +855 639 611 11, phumbaitang.com

Photo S. Greg Panosian