Our Team’s Adventures in Cambodia with Shinta Mani

July 24, 2024 by Hidden Doorways Team

Two Hidden Doorways team members, Maureen Kim and Scott Bull, recently traveled to Cambodia and have so much to share about their experience at Shinta Mani Wild and Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas. Their adventures were nothing short of remarkable.

We sat down with Maureen and Scott after their return to get their expert insights on the properties. Here’s their insider’s look at these unique destinations, that effortlessly combine adventure, sustainability, and personalized luxury.

Shinta Mani Wild offers a unique arrival experience via a 400-meter zip line. How did this set the tone for your stay, and what would you tell clients who might be hesitant about this unconventional entry?

Scott: Having the option to zipline into the property is a fun and exciting way to begin your adventure at SMW. Soaring over the river and through the woods into a beautiful lounge area and being greeted by the staff with cold towels and refreshments was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Even though it was raining when we arrived, the staff were still able to make it a safe and enjoyable event.

The property emphasizes its connection to nature and conservation efforts. Can you share a specific experience that highlighted this commitment during your stay?

Maureen: One of the adventures at Shinta Mani Wild is to join an anti-poaching patrol that is affiliated with the Wildlife Alliance, an international non-profit forest and wildlife conservation organization. On any given day, these rangers are taking down snares set by poachers, pursuing illegal poachers and loggers, cracking down on wildlife trade, and rescuing animals all in the name of conservation. Our day began with shadowing the team as they released a recently caught python deep into the jungle to ensure it would not come into human contact. Later that same day, we were lucky enough to witness a rehabilitated pangolin, a critically endangered species that was caught in a snare, being released onto the grounds of Shinta Mani Wild. It was such a rewarding experience to witness the patrol’s efforts first-hand and the difference they are making in the region.

Scott: Everything about Shinta Mani Wild is incredibly impressive, but the one thing that stood out above all and that which will stay with me for the rest of my life is the efforts by the Wildlife Alliance to save and protect the local forest and the animals living there. They have a sign on property listing all of the conservation efforts to date with how many species of animals and the number of acres saved so far. Seeing the shed where they house the hundreds of chainsaws that they have confiscated from poachers moved me to tears.

With only 15 tents, Shinta Mani Wild promises an intimate experience. How did this translate into personalized service, and can you give an example of how the staff went above and beyond?

Maureen: Every guest at Shinta Mani Wild has their own Butler assigned to them for the duration of their stay. These Butlers cater to your every need and become your best friend by the time you depart the property. I cannot say enough about the warmth and genuine kindness shown from our Butlers, whether they were scheduling massages after our long hike or coming up with inventive ways to keep us dry when it started to rain on our pontoon boat excursion… while also balancing a tray full of cocktails! We absolutely adored our butlers and were so sad to say goodbye.

Scott: Let me first say that the 15 tents are each unique and decorated in a very fun, themed way. I was in the Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy tent, and this was very special for me, having grown up in the era of the Kennedy Presidency. The tent is filled with incredible black and white photos of the President and First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy. Many of which are of her trip to Cambodia in the early 60’s. Regarding the staff going above and beyond, I would have to say the staff and the chef went to great lengths to accommodate my food allergies to all seafood and mushrooms. Since the dining experience is a multi-course pre-set menu, this required a great deal of preparation to ensure I had an amazing culinary experience and felt secure that there would be nothing that might harm me.

The culinary experience at Shinta Mani Wild focuses on foraged and locally sourced ingredients. What was the most memorable dish you tried?

Maureen: It’s hard to single out one dish, but if I am forced to choose, I would say Chef Bernard’s “Wild Antipoaching Forest”. It was a beautifully and whimsically composed dish consisting of edible soil, rice sticks, Kampot truffle, cashews, edible green leaves, foraged herbs, mushrooms, radish, and lime gel. The dish came together so nicely and really showcased the bounty growing in the Cardamom National Forest. Chef Bernard is a true talent, and being able to offer such a variety of menu options in that remote location is truly a feat in and of itself.

What surprised you the most about your stay?

Scott: What surprised me the most was the way in which each tent is positioned for complete privacy and the integration into nature. They are all along the river and have a unique perspective of the water and the forest. That being said, you feel completely safe and protected while enjoying the space that each tent provides. You know staff is always at your disposal but are never intrusive in any way to how you want to experience the property.

With the variety of activities available, how did you balance your time between time in the wilderness and time enjoying your private tent? Any tips for future guests on structuring their days?

Maureen: Going back to what I mentioned about an ideal length of stay, having two or three full days will allow guests to find that right balance of activity and relaxation. When you have this amount of time, you won’t feel as stressed about trying to pack it all in… but also don’t forget that everything is flexible at Shinta Mani Wild and can be catered to your whims. It’s OK to change your two-hour hike to 30 minutes and your one-hour massage to two! The Team at Shinta Mani Wild is there to make sure you are happy at all times.

Shinta Mani has a strong commitment to responsible tourism through the Shinta Mani Foundation. Did you have any interactions or experiences related to their community initiatives?

Scott: I cannot express adequately how important this aspect of a stay at Shinta Mani Wild is. As mentioned previously, seeing the efforts first-hand are life-changing and give one a true sense of the potential for change when there is such a strong commitment.

Scott, as someone passionate about wellness, how did you find the Khmer Tonics Spa experience at Shinta Mani Wild? Were there any treatments or aspects that stood out to you?

Scott: At first glance, one might not realize the scope of potential for a wellness experience at Shinta Mani Wild. Upon further investigation, one will find that they offer a fully rounded wellness experience where there is the opportunity to address all aspects of mind, body, and spirit. One can physically challenge themselves with many of the activities and be physically invigorated. With unlimited spa treatments, executed primarily in your tent, one has the option for plenty of self-care time. Spiritually, one can venture into activities like forest bathing and spending time learning about the local culture and indigenous people of the area. All of this while understanding that their journey to Shinta Mani Wild is supporting the efforts of the foundation to conserve and protect that which cannot protect itself, makes this a truly holistic wellness experience.

For travel agents recommending this property, what type of client do you think would most appreciate the Shinta Mani Wild experience?

Maureen: Honestly, I think most people would enjoy Shinta Mani Wild. Those who know me well know that I am no active adventure buff, and yet, I fell deeply in love with the property. From the riverside setting and the rush of the waterfalls to the unique experiences, luxurious tents, and incredible staff, I came away fully enamored and anxious to return. I understand that a jungle setting may not be universally appealing, but there is a certain magic to what Shinta Mani Wild has created in this part of Cambodia. And my passion for the property is only reinforced when I think of all of their conservation efforts to ensure that the Cardamom Rainforest landscape is preserved and protected for future generations to come.

Scott: There is such a wide appeal to this property and why a Travel Advisor would recommend this to their clients. There are very few properties around the globe that are as unique in architecture and setting with a focus on luxury hospitality. This, combined with the activities and the opportunity to experience the conservation efforts firsthand, make Shinta Mani Wild a property second to none.

Maureen, you had the chance to continue your trip with a stay at Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas. Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas is located in Siem Reap’s old French Quarter. How did this location contribute to your overall experience of the area?

Maureen: The hotel’s convenient location in the heart of the French Quarter made navigating the small town so easy. You are just steps from the riverfront and there are plenty of shops and restaurants to distract you along the way! Even the temples of Angkor are just a 10-15 minute ride away on a tuk-tuk, or “remork” in Khmer, if you wanted to explore a little further.

The Bensley Collection Pool Villas at Shinta Mani Angkor offer an elevated experience. Can you describe the Bensley Butler service and how it enhanced your stay?

Maureen: Having come from Shinta Mani Wild and experiencing the Butler service there, I had high expectations for my Butler at the Bensley Collection Pool Villas! I am delighted to report that Niad was just as warm and helpful and such a gem to have around for my two days at the property. It was so convenient to just WhatsApp Niad for anything and everything, whether it was dinner reservations, asking for shopping recommendations, or simply having something delivered to my villa. Somehow he always knew when I was heading to the Lobby because he would be the first person to greet me there whenever I walked in!

For travel advisors planning extended trips in Cambodia, how would you recommend combining stays at both Shinta Mani Wild and Shinta Mani Angkor to create a comprehensive experience?

Maureen: Anyone going to Cambodia will of course want to see Angkor Wat, so Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas is a perfect and conveniently located choice in Siem Reap. The property offers such a variety of different room types, including those Bensley Pool Villas, so there is something to suit anyone’s taste and budget. After they have had their fill of temple hopping and enjoying the diverse culinary options in Siem Reap, relaxing in the wilderness in a luxurious tent at Shinta Mani Wild would offer a great balance to unwind, take in nature, and enjoy a more relaxed schedule. The clients will receive the same warm Shinta Mani service at both hotels and also delight in the Khmer Tonics Spa at both, as well. You can never go wrong with a city and nature combo and for those Bill Bensley design buffs out there, this is a dream pairing!