Cambodian with a colonial twist

Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra offers fivestar luxury, a Parisstyle bar and handmade chocolate too

By CHUSRI NGAMPRASERT
THE NATION
Phnom Penh
Published on July 27, 2011

Phnom Penh recently welcomed the addition of luxury hotel Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, a sister hotel of Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort in Thailand. Set in landscaped gardens in the Cambodian capital's old quarter, it's a short drive from the Mekong River and seven kilometres from Phnom Penh International Airport. And while the 12-storey hotel, with its 201 luxurious rooms and suites, is not very far from key attractions like The Royal Palace, National Museum and Wat Phnom, it is a little too far from them to walk.

The hotel resolves that problem by providing private tuk tuks, which are always on stand-by to transport guests to explore the city with designated drivers, fixed prices and full insurance. If you would like to explore the city on your own, there are private tuk-tuks and motorcycles at the front gate, a 200-metre stroll from the hotel lobby.

The high-ceiling lobby in French-colonial style is elegant and comfortable. The natural light adds more energy and a touch of friendliness to the grand design. The limited seating in the lobby is not a big problem since around the corner is Le Bar, an elegant old Paris style bar with an extensive cocktail list, plus Chocolat, a cosy bakery where the Belgian pastry chef makes up exquisite chocolates to go with your drink.

Along the way to the elevator is a Shopping Arcade Area where you can find a selection of refined souvenirs as well as traditional Cambodian handicrafts.

Everywhere you go, the friendly hotel staff greet you with sweet smiles and some even remember your name.

The French colonial ambience is echoed in my clean and spacious room with polished hard wood flooring and plenty of natural light. A modern Khmer touch blends beautifully with colonial architecture.

Flat-screen cable TV, MP3 docking station and minibar all make for a pleasant stay. Business travellers and Internet addicts will be delighted to find the in-room high-tech plug & play electronic facilities and wireless Internet connection.

The hotel boasts about its views of the Mekong or Bassac rivers but looking out of my window is a real killjoy - a panorama of construction sites mushrooming along the river.

Separated from the bedroom by heavy sliding doors, the bathroom and wardrobe are in the same area, making it convenient for getting dressed and made up. L'Occitane toiletries are a real treat for a relaxing bath. Double washbasins are convenient for couples but many will find the clear glass wall and door between toilet, bathtub and basins an intrusion on their privacy.

La Coupole is an all day restaurant serving international cuisine. The staff are attentive and the pastries are superb. The restaurant overlooks the river but here too the construction site kills the view. Other dining options include Japanese food at Hachi, Italian food at Do Forni and Chinese food at Fu Lu Zu.

For those wanting personalised service in the exclusive atmosphere of a private club, Club Millesime on the 12th floor is the answer. The service is superb and the club is elegantly decorated. Everything you need either for your private meeting or your quiet time catered for in minutes.

Now I understand completely why everybody here says, "Life is magnifique".

AT A GLANCE

High Points: Friendly and attentive staff

Low Points: Too many construction sites around the hotel and too far to walk to the city attractions

Pay for it: US$200 average nightly rate. For the best available rate, visit the website,

Find it: 26 Old August Site Sothearos Boulevard Sangkat Tonle Bassac 12301 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Browse it: www.sofitel.com