But there’s something in this property that makes it different from Bensley’s others. That’s the “wild”. And that comes with a backstory.

Over decades, this part of southwestern Cambodia has been subjected to extensive logging. Almost a decade ago, Bensley got a tip that logging concessions were being put up for auction, and he managed to purchase this 350-hectare piece of Cambodian nature, complete with its dramatic waterfalls, waterways, and abundant flora and fauna. He then set about working out how to protect it from some of the practices that threatened its future.

“This property is part of the largest unbroken rainforest in South East Asia,” says Sangjay Choegyal, general manager of Shinta Mani Wild. “By building this property, Bill saw an opportunity to tell the world about anti-poaching, anti-mining and conservation in the context of what is happening in this part of the world.”

There might be luxury tents and cocktails awaiting after a zip line, but the conservation message is the resort’s raison d’etre.