Dane Austin Design

Our first day in Cambodia began with a seamless journey from Bangkok to Siem Reap, arriving mid-morning in anticipation of everything ahead. But nothing quite prepared me for the feeling that hit the moment we landed, a quiet, immediate connection to the land.

As we exited the airport, we were welcomed by traditional Khmer musicians and dancers, dressed in beautifully authentic attire. It was a breathtaking introduction, graceful, vibrant, and deeply rooted in culture. From that very first moment, you could feel the pride and warmth of the people.

As we boarded the bus and made our way through the countryside, I couldn’t stop expressing how much I already loved it here. The pace felt slower, more intentional. Outside the window stretched lush farmland, vivid greenery, and a landscape that felt both peaceful and alive. There was a natural beauty that didn’t need to try, it simply existed.

After arrival, the group gathered for lunch, but I opted to skip it and take the opportunity to unwind at the spa, knowing I would catch up with everyone later at our more relaxed post-trip dinner. It felt like the perfect way to ease into the rhythm of this place.

We then continued on to the hotel designed by Bill Bensley- creator of the White Lotus resorts. The Shinta Mani Angkor felt like a hidden sanctuary, rustic yet elevated, with thoughtful design moments and vignettes tucked into every corner. It struck that perfect balance of understated luxury and soul.

Throughout the day, what stayed with me most was the people. Everyone we encountered was incredibly kind, welcoming, and genuinely proud to host us. That energy carried through every interaction and made the experience feel personal, not just curated.

We closed the evening with a beautiful welcome dinner and entertainment in the temple garden, an elegant and fitting end to a day that felt both grounding and inspiring.

And just like that, Cambodia had already left its mark.

Photography: (with the exception of the videos and the bell boy ;-)