Phum Baitang

Phum Baitang is a secret, hidden oasis meaning you have no idea what to expect as you arrive. You would never believe that this beautifully manicured green village exists on the outskirts of Siem Reap. But please believe us when we tell you that not only does it exist, but that it’s the epitome of peaceful luxury and you can’t fail to be impressed. Conveniently located just a short distance from Siem Reap airport, the town centre, and the magnificent temples of Angkor, Phum Baitang is one of those places where you’ll pinch yourself to check that you’re not dreaming.

A selection of well appointed wooden villas, some boasting private pools, are set within lush green rice paddies, landscaped gardens and an incredible infinity pool which is surrounded with places to laze in the shade. The pool area is definitely somewhere where you’ll be wanting to spend time relaxing. The views are both enchanting and peaceful, the birdsong and distant sounds from neighbouring Cambodian life create the ambient soundscape, whilst a member of the professional and attentive staff team is always on hand to assist.

The villas at Phum Baitang are reminiscent of traditional Cambodian stilted houses, accessible by a wooden staircase that was shaded by palms. From the moment you step onto the raised terrace, you are aware that the villas are a refined and luxurious rendition of a Khmer village home, finished impeccably and adorned with beautiful fabrics and individual antique ornaments. Our spacious villa managed to incorporate two sofas (both internal and external) which we adored. Complete with the plumpest of cushions, we found ourselves stretching out in full comfort as we declared them “the most comfortable sofas we’ve ever lazed upon”. The subtle design style incorporates soft pastel colours and aged wood throughout, this works remarkably well creating a relaxing and calming environment where you will feel at peace and never want to leave..

The Vegan Food

Chef Kim and his team proved themselves more than capable of catering for guests who wish to enjoy plant based food. As we visited during a time of reduced occupancy due to COVID travel restrictions, only one of the restaurants was open, Bay Phsar. This is where we enjoyed breakfast and dinner during our stay, overlooking the stunning pool whilst enjoying an array of vegan delights. Our breakfast each day started with almond milk lattes, homemade breads, freshly squeezed juices, coconut yoghurt and tropical fruit salad. We were also treated to vegan versions of classic Khmer breakfast dishes such as banh sung and nom banh chok, both favourites of ours and the Phum Baitang adaptations were superb. Chef also served a Western breakfast with perfectly seasoned tofu scramble on toast, lightly fried potato cake, spinach and a creamy guacamole topped with rocket. Vegan breakfast at Phum Baitang, with views over the pool and rice paddies was kind of perfect, we just wish every day could start like this!

Ending our day with a specially created vegan meal from Chef Kim that started with the ubiquitous banh xeo; rice flour and turmeric pancakes which are found all over Cambodia. These were veganised to perfection and prepared us for what was to follow. A banana blossom salad packed with pumpkin seeds, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, tofu, mixed herbs, black peppercorns, green and red bell pepper, chilli and ground peanuts with a sour, sweet and spicy dressing. Big flavours with every forkful providing a unique flavour, texture and experience. Followed by the most incredible eggplant fillet that had been steamed then grilled, with a delightful stuffed Chinese cabbage parcel on a bed of creamed corn with green vegetables and tamarind sauce. Wow. Finally, nom ga chai but not as we know it. A medley of beans, diced tofu and straw mushrooms in a flavoursome broth, sprinkled with fresh peppercorns and chilli. The stuffed rice flour dumplings sat atop with asparagus, wilted greens and sautéed chives laid accross. It’s a bowl that doesn’t have to work hard to look appetising. But the taste? Outstanding. The beans were perfectly al dente, they popped when you ate them, those peppercorns were like little explosions of heat and flavour, the asparagus was sweet and juicy, the greens iron rich and nutritious. Everything about these four plant based dishes from chef Kim, reminds us why we fell in love with Cambodia and Khmer cuisine, an exquisite vegan meal in an extraordinary location.

The Vegan Essentials

There was already a feather free pillow choice in our room, meaning that we could swap the pillows over with little fuss. The bathroom amenities were Phum Baitang’s own brand and we were unable to identify whether they were vegan or not so we just used our own. Throughout the resort, water is in refillable glass bottles negating the need for single use plastic water bottles. The spa has a range of treatments available both using natural oils and traditional organic plants (like moringa, herbal compresses and coconut water) making them suitable for vegan guests. The menu details traditional massage techniques from Cambodia, India, Tibet and the more traditional Swedish oil massage.

The Vegan Food Quest Verdict

Check in to Phum Baitang for luxury, peace and tranquility which all provide a perfect antidote to the sometimes dusty, sometimes busy and always hot Siem Reap. Perfect for a staycation, you will be sure to enjoy smooth service and excellent vegan food at this unique resort. Don’t forget to try the delicious Khmer culinary creations during your stay, it really is a great opportunity to enjoy refined and vegan adaptions of some of Cambodia’s favourite dishes.

We were guests of Phum Baitang but please rest assured that their generosity in hosting us didn’t influence our views

Phum Baitang
Svay Dangkum
Siem Reap 17000
Cambodia

Telephone: +855 (0)63 961 111
Cost From: £150 / $200 – May 2021 (discounted rates during COVID)