JAYA HOUSE, Cambodia
Jaya House River Park Review – A Luxury Eco Hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Jaya House River Park was at the very top of my list of hotels to visit during my time in Cambodia. After reading the incredible reviews on TripAdvisor, I became fascinated by this hidden gem in Siem Reap. At the time of booking, Jaya House had nearly 1,000 reviews without a single negative rating, something I had never come across before. I found it hard to believe that any hotel could truly be “perfect”.
However, the more I discovered about Jaya House, the more I understood why guests spoke so highly of it. Beyond the beautiful surroundings and luxury accommodation, it was the hotel's commitment to sustainability, reducing plastic waste and supporting the local community that really captured my attention. My mind was made up, Jaya House had to be part of my Cambodia adventure.
Jaya House River Park is a 95% plastic-free boutique hotel set along a peaceful stretch of the Siem Reap River. With just 36 rooms, two freshwater swimming pools, an on-site restaurant and the tranquil River Park Spa, the hotel offers an intimate and relaxing escape while still being located less than 10 minutes from the world-famous Angkor Wat.
From the moment you arrive, Jaya House begins to feel like more than just a hotel stay. Guests are welcomed with complimentary airport transfers, where you'll be greeted by a friendly driver and your own “Refill Not Landfill” water bottle, an initiative created to help reduce the reliance on single use plastic bottles across Asia. The reusable bottle can be refilled at various locations throughout Cambodia and Southeast Asia, helping travellers make a positive impact during their journey.
Arriving at Jaya House was an experience I'll never forget. We were welcomed by some of the kindest people I have ever met, greeted with the words “Welcome home”, before being offered a refreshing welcome drink and a cold towel after our journey. (Coffee lovers should also be sure to check out Deepoll Coffee during their stay.)
We were also fortunate enough to meet the owner, Cristian, who personally welcomes many guests arriving at the hotel. His passion for Cambodia and its people is immediately clear. Since arriving in the country many years ago, Cristian has dedicated himself to creating positive change from reducing plastic waste to supporting local employment opportunities.
One of his biggest achievements has been creating the “Made in Cambodia” market, a project that provides opportunities for local artisans while giving visitors the chance to purchase authentic Cambodian gifts and souvenirs directly from the people who make them.
Jaya House's commitment to its team is equally impressive. The hotel provides year-round employment for its 107 staff members, something that is reflected in the genuine happiness and warmth you experience from every member of the team.
The Junior Suite Experience
When I opened the door to my room, I was greeted by a beautiful junior suite overlooking one of the hotel's peaceful swimming pools. After busy days exploring Siem Reap, it immediately felt like the perfect place to unwind and relax.
The room itself was beautifully designed, featuring incredible artwork, a spacious layout and a large king-size bed that was almost impossible not to sink into after a day of exploring. The attention to detail throughout the suite was what really stood out. From the in-room tea and coffee facilities to the bathroom amenities, everything had been carefully considered.
Keeping with Jaya House's commitment to sustainability, the bathroom featured homemade shampoo, conditioner and shower gel stored in reusable glass jars rather than single-use plastic bottles. These small touches made the experience feel even more personal, knowing that every decision had been made with the environment in mind.
Inside the room, you'll also find reusable fabric shopping bags for exploring Siem Reap, meaning guests can avoid using plastic bags during their stay. Even the laundry basket has a story behind it, being created from recycled plastic bags as part of the hotel's involvement with the “Rehash Trash” project, an initiative that transforms discarded plastic waste into something useful and new.
The junior suite also features a private outdoor terrace, a huge bathtub, a rainfall shower and even a second outdoor rainfall shower, perfect for cooling off after spending time in the Cambodian heat. Guests are also treated to a complimentary one-hour spa treatment each day, a fully stocked mini bar and twice-daily housekeeping.
Rather than the traditional chocolate left on the pillow, Jaya House leaves guests a different homemade treat each evening, from freshly baked cookies to delicious cakes. It became a little moment to look forward to every night, never knowing what surprise would be waiting.
The Service at Jaya House River Park
While the rooms, location and sustainability efforts are all incredible, what truly sets Jaya House apart is the service.
I've stayed in five-star hotels around the world, but very few have matched the level of care and attention I experienced here. Every member of staff goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome, and nothing ever feels like too much trouble.
With just 36 rooms and a team of 107 staff members, Jaya House offers an incredibly personal experience. The team quickly learns your preferences, remembers small details and makes you feel less like a guest and more like part of the Jaya House family.
Beyond the complimentary laundry service and mini bar, guests also have access to complimentary Tuk Tuk rides throughout the local area. During check-in, you'll be provided with a mobile phone to use throughout your stay, allowing you to contact the hotel whenever needed and arrange transportation back after exploring Siem Reap.
This service proved invaluable during my stay, especially on the day I accidentally broke my camera. One of the team members helped me locate a nearby camera repair shop and immediately arranged a Tuk Tuk to take me there, ensuring I could get my camera repaired as quickly as possible. It was a perfect example of the genuine care and hospitality that makes Jaya House so special.
Breakfast at Jaya House
Breakfast is included with your stay, and each morning guests can enjoy a fantastic buffet selection featuring a variety of local and international options. From fresh pastries and delicious macarons to the option of enjoying a glass of Champagne with breakfast, it is a wonderful way to start the day.
For the best experience, take your breakfast outside and enjoy it from one of the hotel's large swinging tables while overlooking the peaceful surroundings.
Final Thoughts
Jaya House River Park will remain one of my favourite hotels I have ever experienced. While the beautiful rooms, incredible service and thoughtful touches make it an exceptional place to stay, it is the hotel's passion for sustainability and positive impact that truly makes it unforgettable.
Leaving Jaya House, I didn't just feel like I had enjoyed a luxury hotel stay, I left feeling inspired, more aware of the impact we can have as travellers and motivated to make more conscious choices when exploring the world.
Thanks Jaya House for an unforgettable stay.