The premier hotel in Phnom Penh and it has been for quite some time. Its classic style exudes an old-world charm – perhaps it is best described as a ‘distinguished’ hotel.

Le Royal was established in 1929 and during these early heydays, it hosted an international clientele comprising of adventurers, writers, royalty and dignitaries. Since then it has been front and centre of the dramatic shifts of life in Phnom Penh and, in 1997, it was lovingly restored by the Raffles group. It is now a soothing oasis in the heart of Phnom Penh, located perfectly for easy access to the main sights, whilst away from the main roads in the area designated by the French as the centre of the colonial government – many of the city’s most impressive colonial-era structures are nearby. The sprawling new US Embassy is also just down the road.

The 170 rooms and suites are spread over three interconnecting low-rise wings set around an interior courtyard featuring two good-sized pools and lush open gardens. Decorated in colonial style with Cambodian objects d’arts, the rooms have valet service and views either onto the street or the gardens.

Guests have a choice of five distinctive restaurants and bars, serving international favourites, French fine dining and local Khmer specialities. A dress code (a jacket for men) applies in the fine dining restaurant and don’t miss Happy Hours from 4pm to 8pm at the Elephant Bar, once the favoured haunt of war correspondents.