Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort

I stayed a couple of nights at the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort over Xmas. This hotel came highly recommended by a certain FT friend who has extensively written about it already in this thread.

He was right, this is a stunning hotel with a service oriented mangement and staff that puts many other hotels to shame.

There are many other hotels in Siem Reap but the Sofitel stands out for its old colonial charm and beautiful setting, inside and outside. (The Le Méridien nearby looks like a bomb shelter from the outside).

I had arranged transport from the airport, arriving very early. Despite this the room was ready and check in was done in the seating area of the lobby, not at the desk. A drink was on offer and so were cold towels (water and towels were also ready in the car.).

Everything was in place, welcome letter, drinks vouchers and before I knew it I was in my upgraded room.

I was upgraded to a junior suite which oozed charm. Wooden floors throughout with tasteful furnishings. The room featured a large bedroom, a smaller lounge and a massive walk in wardrobe.

A desk and a mini bar complete with Lavazza coffee machine completed the room. WiFi was strong and had decent speeds.

A balcony with table and chairs looked out onto the beautifully maintained gardens.

The bathrooms are art deco (ish) style and feature a walk in shower and bath. Toiletries were L'Occitane en Provence.

Service throughout was excellent. It clearly showed that staff and management were taking pride in hospitality.

The main reason why tourists flock to Siem Reap is of course Angkor Wat. I arranged a car (aircon was a life saver) with driver (in full uniform with hat and white gloves) and a guide. If you are visiting Angkor Wat please note the temple rules and show respect (the mind boggles how some folks behave).

Angkor Wat when it was "discovered" and now.

Food was very good. My room included free breakfast and I had a booked the So Gourmet package which included a USD 60/day spend at restaurants and bars. So essentially I needed to spend USD 60 for lunch and dinner which was sometimes a challenge as prices were very reasonable.

The hotel has two restaurants: one French fine dining one which I did not try as I have plenty of that at home and a Asian/Western restaurant with outdoor seating. Meals are also available in the bar or as room service. In teh evenings they also host an outdoor buffet with Cambodian dancers.

The breakfast buffet was huge with many Asian and western options to choose from. I certainly did not go hungry.

The hotel in close to the airport (about 20 minute drive through the chaotic Cambodian traffic) and close to the temples.

If you need to leave the hotel tuk tuks are available for USD 2 a pop.

Overall this is a stunning hotel. I fully understand why Goldorak is a regular here (and is well known here ;) )