Raffles Cambodia Introduces ‘Path of History’ Tour and Commemorative Book

Raffles Hotels in Cambodia have introduced a new ‘Path of History’ tour at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, alongside the release of a historical publication documenting the legacy of its two properties in the country.

The ‘Path of History’ is a permanent exhibition at the Siem Reap hotel, featuring archival photographs, video material, architectural drawings and artefacts that trace developments in travel across Southeast Asia during the early 20th century. The experience is available to in-house guests and is conducted by a hotel-appointed historian.

Raffles Cambodia Celebrates Legacy with ‘Path of History’ and New Book

The launch coincides with the publication of A Tale of Two Hotels – Raffles in Cambodia, authored by Andreas Augustin and Carola Augustin. The book documents the history of Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor and its sister property, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, and examines the evolution of travel in the region between 1900 and 1940.

According to the authors and hotel representatives, the exhibition and book focus on a period marked by increased international travel, including the expansion of steamship routes and early aviation. The narrative also references figures such as the Sarkies brothers, who were associated with the development of the Raffles brand in Asia.

“We are delighted and honoured to showcase a seminal early period of international travel, when visitors from around the world first discovered the wonders of Cambodia. Our new ‘Grand Path of History’ tour chronicles this story alongside that of Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, whose illustrious 96-year past intertwines with those pioneering arrivals,” said Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor General Manager Joseph Colina.

Dagmar Lyons, General Manager of Raffles Hotel Le Royal, added: “Andreas Augustin’s new book, A Tale of Two Hotels – Raffles in Cambodia, illuminates not only a remarkable chapter in history but also its enduring connection to two of the world’s most iconic hotels. Our properties in Cambodia – Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor – are historic gems, each with its own extraordinary story.”

The publication also includes references to cultural and historical moments in Cambodia, including international tours by the Royal Ballet of Cambodia and visits by Charlie Chaplin to Phnom Penh and Angkor.

Hotel representatives stated that the initiative is intended to document and present the historical context of the two properties and their role in early tourism in Cambodia.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal originally opened in 1929 and underwent refurbishment in 2019. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor opened in 1932 and was initially developed to accommodate visitors to Angkor.

Both properties were included in the MICHELIN Guide list of recognised hotels in Cambodia in its first edition for the country. Raffles Hotel Le Royal was also ranked among hotels in Southeast Asia in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler.

The two hotels also offer a joint seven-day itinerary titled ‘A Tale of Two Cities’, which combines stays in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.