
Around the world with Bill Bensley
HelloEach of my paintings has a specific purpose. For example, the money raised from one might send four young Cambodians to school for a year, or buy 300 bicycles for schoolchildren
Press
HelloEach of my paintings has a specific purpose. For example, the money raised from one might send four young Cambodians to school for a year, or buy 300 bicycles for schoolchildren
The Most Perfect ViewWhen you stay at the Shinta Mani Wild, be ready to experience a window to one of the most mesmerizing jungles in the world. Imagine waking up to the vivid green colors of the jungle banks and the soothing rush of the white water beneath you. Suspended above the banks of the white water Thmor Rung River, visitors to Shinta Mani Wild are struck with views at every turn that are unlike any you experience in everyday life.
escape.com.auIn my mind, I can’t help but wonder what a hundred Bensley properties instead of two would accomplish here, spread across Cambodia, protecting, nourishing, transforming a nation.
Herdes MagNestled between two National Parks, this property is a combination of artistic expression turned architecture and an immersive experience in the depths of nature. Wake up on the banks of a wild river and walk along its deepest paths surrounded by lush vegetation. An experience that connects all your senses with the purest wilderness.
Paris MatchAu cœur de la jungle, dans les montagnes des Cardamomes, le Shinta Mani Wild a vu le jour pour sauvegarder un territoire de 160 hectares du déboisement et de la chasse sauvage. Son raffinement lui a permis d'entrer, dès son ouverture, en 2018, dans la liste des établissements d'exception.
Condé Nast TravellerThere aren't many hotel designers whose creations have genuinely made my face hurt from smiling. [...] Shinta Mani Wild is an even deeper immersion into nature - specifically, the lush wilderness of south-western Cambodia.
Flash PackFrom her base deep in the Cambodian rainforest near Siem Reap and the mighty Angkor Wat temple complex, Solveig has made it her mission to explore the history of Khmer healing.
Vegan Food QuestThis extraordinary property in the heart of Siem Reap, the brainchild of famed hotel architect Bill Bensley, has impressed and astonished discerning guests since opening in December 2017, whilst continuing to deliver the highest levels of design, privacy and service in equal measures. Our staycation at this gilded palace playground was truly memorable on many levels. This is a unique option in Siem Reap that will impress even the toughest of nuts to crack with its’ secluded location, stylish interiors and ‘plant-forward’ food philosophy from Executive Chef Chanrith.
The West AustralianToday, Shinta Mani Hotels fully support the Shinta Mani Foundation, with 100 per cent of all donations providing direct assistance to underprivileged Cambodians. So, when you choose to stay at any Shinta Mani Hotel, you are already contributing to the development of Cambodia.
bridgesShinta Mani Hotels are designed by co-owner Bill Bensley whom Architectural Digest calls ‘a pioneer in sustainable hotel design.’ Each small property reflects its natural and cultural environment, providing heartfelt hospitality that supports the people, animals and ecosystems of Cambodia through the Shinta Mani Foundation.
Harper's Bazaar (Malaysia)From the ancient Khmer art details of King Jayavarman's robes to the striking black and white floor tiles, the design is very fetching; instead of occupying maximum horizontal space, Bensley's Villa plays more with vertical height, bringing to life a certain kind of swag.
Harper's Bazaar (Malaysia)Entering deeper into Cardamon National Forest, the largest in Cambodia and the second largest virgin rainforest in Southeast Asia, I'm eager to check-in but felt a little daunted. Shinta Mani Wild has abandoned conventional desk formalities, and guests simply check-in via a 400-metre zip line, which just happens to be the longest in Cambodia.
Polo and Lifestyle Magazine“I’m absolutely thrilled about this unique collaboration with Kate”, says Bill Bensley – she really has understood the concept of what we are doing here and created an incredible range of pieces to complement the environment. There is something for everyone, from everyday pieces to elaborate and rare pieces. I’m tickled pink with her homage to my much-loved signature black and white stripe design motif – thank you Kate” - Bill Bensley
The Gallivanter's GuideThe emphasis of this unique glamping destination is on the word ’wild’, so despite the luxurious nature of one’s tent and the top notch service and cuisine, it may only appeal to the more adventurous souls amongst you. Personally, I had a lot of fun and absolutely loved it, so I encourage you to move out of your comfort zone and experience it for yourself.
Asian JuristA new wilderness retreat is set to reshape Cambodian tourism.
Traveller's World 2019Ein Paradies wie aus dem Dschungel-Bilderbuch: An der Nahtstelle zwischen drei Nationalparks verbindet Shinta Mani Wild Abenteuer-Urlaub mit ökologischen und sozialen Aktivitäten. Die Lage ist wahrhaft berauschend, und wer sich traut, schwebt per Seilrutsche zur Rezeption.
Nikkei Asian ReviewLuxury hotel designer Bill Bensley's Shinta Mani resort is as green as it gets
Hideaway ReportFlamboyant tented accommodations surrounded by the deep seclusion of a private nature sanctuary.
DeparturesIn the Wilds of Cambodia, a Legendary Hotel Designer Finds the Mission of a Lifetime
Vogue BritishWhen we reached Shinta Mani Wild, where it's possible to zip-line 380m over rivers and waterfalls, there was no way I wasn't going to have a go. So I did -four times. I promise you, it's the most fun you can have in 20 minutes.
Vacations & TravelDeep in a pristine corridor of a national park in Cambodia, there’s a new experiential adventure property that invites guests on a wild ride.
TTG Luxury 2019Deep in the heart of a forest in Cambodia lies the proof that tourism and conservation needn’t be mutually exclusive. Shinta Mani Wild is just one of a number of luxury openings in the region taking responsibility to another level
T+L AsiaGlamping is so last season. A handful of new tented camps across the region is setting a new standard for conservationism, while spiritedly and whimsically redefining the luxury-resort experience.
SilverkrisCambodia’s Cardamom Mountains is the largest expanse of unbroken rainforest left in Southeast Asia and a biodiversity hotspot – and a new breed of tourism offerings and conservationists are working to keep it that way
MindfoodA remarkable new Cambodian camp pushes the frontiers of luxury with a thrilling zip-line arrival, decadent tented accommodation, fabulous food, adventurous outdoor activities and indulgent spa treatments
Luxury EscapesMore than just minimising its impact, Shinta Mani Wild aims to benefit the forest and local communities, and this is the very reason for its existence.
Figaro Magazine February 2019Longtemps il a été tentant de résumer le Cambdoge à la cité de pierre d'Angkor… de nouvelles adresses invitent aujourd'hui à découvrir d'autres facettes du pays.
JetGala #40Stunning design and serious conservation make a stay at Shinta Mani Wild unforgettable.
DestinAsianFrom the Cardamom Mountains to the streets of Siem Reap, one of the region's best-known hotel designers is helping to raise the bar for responsible tourism.
Delicious.com.auSecured onto one of the Southern Hemisphere’s longest ziplines, glide through the copious canopy of Southern Cardamom National Park, over the bubbling rapids of the Thmor Rung River, where a signature cocktail, such as the light and floral ‘leaf’, awaits in The Landing Zone bar.
Condé Nast TravellerSuddenly there is a very big reason to stay in Cambodia after seeing the temples at Angkor.
National Geographic TravellerThis is a green beacon of conservation, where at least 75% of staff are locals, tents are suspended to allow migratory movements below, and experiences include patrolling the jungle with Wildlife Alliance rangers.
National Geographic TravelerA National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, the complex features 15 luxe tents cantilevered over a jungle river, each sporting a theme -National Geographic is one- and an outdoor bathtub.
Harper's Bazaar June/July 2019Remote yet ravishing in every detail, Shinta Mani Wild is the radical luxury retreat just that bit closer to nature.
Tatler Travel Guide 2020On the banks of the thundering Tmor Rung river, deep in the Cardamom Mountains, 15 luxurious tents designed with Bill Bensley's tropical exuberance provide a base camp from which to explore the uncharted wilderness.
Time MagazineAt Shinta Mani Wild, the adventure begins before hotel guests even step onto the property. To get there, they're whisked along a zip line over lush forests and waterfalls, after which they dismount for a drink at the reception's Landing Zone Bar.
Keynote at the 2019 Global Wellness Summit in Singapore
Global Wellness Summit 2019Designer Bill Bensley’s Playful, Over-The-Top Hotels
CBS Sunday MorningInterview with Bill Bensley
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