Our 15-day stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort was a delightful blend of modern comfort and Cambodian hospitality, made even better by redeeming points earned through the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card. As Gold Elite members, we scored an upgrade to an Extended Balcony Room with a pool view, elevating our experience in this vibrant gateway to Angkor Wat. While breakfast wasn’t included with Gold status, the excellent staff, tasty dining options, and prime location made this a fantastic base for exploring Siem Reap. Here’s our review.
Arrival and Check-In: A Warm Cambodian Welcome
Arriving at the Courtyard Siem Reap, we were greeted by a sleek, open lobby with Khmer-inspired decor and a calming ambiance. The check-in process was smooth, with staff acknowledging our Gold status and surprising us with an upgrade from a standard City View Room to an Extended Balcony Room with a pool view. The upgrade, a perk of our Gold status earned via the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card, set a positive tone for our stay. The staff’s warm smiles and quick assistance, including tips for nearby temples, made us feel instantly at home.
The Room: Spacious Comfort with a Pool View
The Extended Balcony Room, at around 400 square feet, was a step above the standard room we booked. It was slightly larger, offering a spacious king bed, a modern work desk, and a cozy seating area. The highlight was the oversized balcony overlooking the resort’s inviting pool, a refreshing change from the city view we expected. The room’s design blended contemporary style with subtle Khmer touches, like wooden accents and local artwork. The bathroom featured a rain shower, a large vanity, and Marriott’s signature toiletries, ensuring a comfortable stay. The pool view added a relaxing vibe, especially during sunset when the water sparkled below.
Dining: Memorable Meals at Lok Lak
As Gold members, we didn’t have complimentary breakfast (a Platinum Elite perk), but we enjoyed several meals at Lok Lak, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant. The breakfast buffet, priced around $15 per person, offered a mix of Western staples like eggs and pancakes and Cambodian favorites like fish amok and noodle soup. We also sampled dinner there, with standout dishes like beef lok lak and Khmer curry, bursting with local flavors. Room service was a convenient treat on lazy evenings, with prompt delivery of items like spring rolls and burgers. The food quality was consistently high, and the staff’s attentiveness, from recommending dishes to ensuring quick service, made dining a pleasure.
Amenities and Service: Exceptional Staff Shine
The Courtyard’s amenities catered well to travelers. The outdoor pool, surrounded by lush greenery, was perfect for cooling off after temple-hopping. The fitness center was compact but well-equipped, and the spa offered affordable Khmer massages, though we didn’t have time to indulge. The staff was the true highlight, going above and beyond with personalized service. From arranging tuk-tuks to Angkor Wat to checking on our dining preferences, their warmth and professionalism stood out. They even surprised us with a small welcome gift of local snacks in our room, a thoughtful touch.
Location: Ideal for Exploring Siem Reap
Located just 15 minutes from the Angkor Wat Archaeological Park (about $3 by tuk-tuk), the Courtyard is perfectly positioned for temple explorers. It’s also a short ride from Siem Reap’s lively Pub Street and Night Market, where we enjoyed street food and shopping. The hotel’s location in a quieter area of town offered a peaceful retreat while remaining close to the action, with easy access to the Siem Reap River and local eateries.
Value and the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card
We redeemed 9,000 points per night. We earned these points through the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card ($95 annual fee), a steal compared to cash rates of $100 to $150 per night. We receive Gold Elite status from our AMEX Platinum card. This Gold Status secured our Extended Balcony Room upgrade, valued at $150+ per night, adding significant value to our 15-day stay. Marriott gives you a 5th night free which is why we booked in increments of 5 for our stay. With 5x points on Marriott stays and an annual free night certificate (up to 35,000 points), the card made this long stay affordable and luxurious. While Gold status didn’t include breakfast, the upgrade and late checkout (2 p.m., subject to availability) enhanced our experience. The pool view room was a bonus, making our points redemption feel like a splurge.
The Verdict
The Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort is a modern, comfortable base for exploring Cambodia’s cultural heart. The Extended Balcony Room upgrade, excellent staff, and tasty dining at Lok Lak made our 10-day stay memorable, even without complimentary breakfast. Redeeming points from the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card maximized value, proving its worth for frequent travelers. Whether you’re visiting Angkor Wat or soaking up Siem Reap’s vibrant scene, this hotel delivers a perfect blend of convenience and comfort. We’re already planning our next stay!
Pro Tip: Book early with points for peak seasons, and contact the hotel to confirm upgrade availability. Check Marriott’s website for rates and redemption options.
Leave a comment