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Q&As

10 Questions: Herman Kemp, Park Hyatt Siem Reap

In our General Manager series, we catch up with heads of hotels for personal stories and insider perspective. This week, we get to know Herman Kemp of Park Hyatt Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Q Best hotel room at the property:
A

Park Executive Suite is my favorite room as it’s lovely and spacious, with a separate seating area and large bathroom with an oversized tub and double vanity. Also, it features an outdoor plunge pool and garden.
Q The hotel’s most interesting detail, service or historical tidbit:
A

Renovated from the former Hotel de la Paix by award-winning designer Bill Bensley and inspired by ancient Angkor ruins and Cambodia’s vibrant culture, the hotel is one-of-a-kind—designed with attention to detail and a passion for color and texture that reflect the nature of its exotic environment.
“
Renovated by award-winning designer Bill Bensley and inspired by ancient Angkor ruins and Cambodia’s vibrant culture, the hotel is one-of-a-kind.
”
Q Favorite drink at the nearest bar:
A

Espresso Martini at Ms. Wong, an eclectic and intimate cocktail lounge in one of the small passages of the old market area. It contains a shot of dark roast espresso, coffee liqueur and grey goose vodka.
Two bedroom pool suite
Q Favorite dish at the nearest restaurant:
A

I’d like to highlight two dishes: the tiger prawns wrapped in bacon with green pea compote at Olive Restaurant, and the fresh lotus salad with grilled chicken at Khmer Touch Cuisine. Depending on my mood, I visit both restaurants regularly with my wife and we normally end up ordering these must-have dishes.
Q Neighbourhood shop or boutique you love:
A

The Couture House by Eric Raisina is impressive for me personally. The high quality of his work has proved that the town is not only a stop for Angkor Wat, but also fashion. If you are interested in learning more about his work, you can observe his team in action at his atelier and see the process of silk weaving.
Q Best touristy activity or outing to do in your city:
A

There is no doubt that it’s Angkor Wat. It is truly amazing. In one year, I’ve visited at least seven times and each time I find something new. The sights and surroundings are spectacular. I walking through the ruins and taking photos whenever we find something interesting, which is every time.
Q Best non-touristy activity or outing to do in your city:
A

Bike rides in the countryside. You should depart in the early morning as it gets hot very quickly. During a leisurely ride, you will see the lifestyle of the local people in the fields and villages.
Q Outside the hotel lobby, whats your hobby?
A

I run at least four times a week. Apart than that, I love playing football and I also like exploring the town to find new places where I can enjoy nice food and drink.
Two bedroom pool suite
Q Your last holiday destination:
A

We went to Laos early this year, visiting Kwang Si waterfalls and cruising on the Mekong River. Laos is a really beautiful country with spectacular and magnificent landscapes and scenery. Pay a visit and you will not regret it! The small UNESCO town of Luang Prabang is also an attractive place, quaint and with colonial touches. If you like running, a run around the town in the early morning is nice and you may see the local people giving alms to the Buddhist monks.
Q Your next holiday destination, planned or wished:
A

We are going to Iceland in early May. We’ve heard so much about the beautiful landscape and nature that we are immensely looking forward to this trip.