After a careful restoration, the old Foreign Correspondents’ Club in Siem Reap has been given a new lease on life as the FCC Angkor, managed by Avani Hotels & Resorts. Once upon a time, this famous landmark was the mansion of the French colonial governor, before it was transformed into the Foreign Correspondents’ Club and developed a global reputation as a hangout for journalists and celebrities. Now, it’s welcoming travelers once again to ogle its new interiors by Bangkok-based designer Malee Whitcraft in partnership with Phnom Penh-based Bloom Architecture. Surrounded by ancient trees and lush landscaping, the restored centerpiece is now home to the Mansion restaurant, while a newly constructed building hosts the Scribe Bar, where you can sample cocktails inspired by famous journalists. You’ll also find an art gallery, Visaya Spa, and two outdoor saltwater pools.
The FCC Angkor is situated across from the Royal Independence Gardens and Royal Residence. There are 80 guestrooms and suites decorated with vintage decor like antique clocks, rotary telephones and typewriters. The framed newspapers are also a nod to the hotel’s journalistic past. Each room is equipped with a terrace opening out onto the tropical gardens. Notably the FFC Angkor is engaged with community outreach and employed local women artisans to create the bed runners and cushions.
A highlight will be the collection of curated experiences, including the FCC-inspired photography tours led by a leading photojournalist to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat.
FCC Angkor is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. It’s the first renovated heritage hotel within the FCC Collection, with sister property FCC Phnom Penh expected to debut in November 2020 after a restoration.