Sunway Hotel Phnom Penh

The Sunway Hotel Phnom Penh is a large and regal looking building that sits opposite the U.S. Embassy. The lobby makes a stellar first impression, with its marble floor, high ceilings, and brass chandelier. Homage is paid to local artisans with Apsara busts, Khmer sculptures, and wonderful watercolor paintings of Phnom Penh street scenes. Strangely enough, there are few seats in the lobby, just a couple of small black sofas tucked away by the deli counter, meaning that guests have quick check-ins, or aren't spending too much time in the public areas. There is plenty of foot traffic here, though, as the meeting rooms and ballroom are just upstairs, and the extravagant breakfast and lunch buffets are held in the restaurant. This hotel draws business travelers and those familiar with the Sunway brand (a well-known Malaysian chain), though plenty of traveling couples pass through as well.

The Sunway Hotel Phnom Penh is located right across the street from the U.S. Embassy and next to Wat Phnom, the hilltop temple that marks the northern boundary of central Phnom Penh. It's a quiet spot, with one-way streets and park areas keeping things controlled and peaceful in terms of traffic. It's also very secure, with the embassy right opposite. That being said, this isn't the most exciting neighborhood in the city. Phnom Penh's vibrant little night market is within a 10-minute walk, and the northern fringe of the boutique-heavy area just north of the National Museum is a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Locals gather at the riverside opposite the Royal Palace in the morning and around sunset, and it's a sight to be seen. It's a five to 10-minute tuk-tul ride from the hotel. The BKK1 neighborhood, filled with plenty of hip bars, shops, and restaurants, as well as the equally happening Street 240, are 10 to 15 minutes away by tuk-tuk or taxi. It's a 30-minute taxi ride to Phnom Penh International Airport.

There are 138 rooms and suites at the Sunway Hotel Phnom Penh. It is one of the older hotels in town and rooms look a bit dated, especially compared to the many swish boutique hotels all over the city (many of which are far cheaper). Rooms have red patterned carpets, bland floral artwork, and light wood veneer furniture. Beds stand under green upholstered headboards, which look a bit old school, and all rooms have work desks, chairs, and bathrooms with shower/tub combos. There are also flat-screen televisions, safes, minibars, electric hot water kettles for making tea and coffee, robes and slippers, and free Wi-Fi and broadband cable Internet access. The entry level Deluxe Rooms don't have balconies, but the Deluxe Balcony Rooms come with immense balconies and views across to the U.S. Embassy and park outside. Spacious suites all come with separate dining rooms, and also have full kitchens with stove tops, microwave ovens, utensils, and cabinets. The suites also feature separate walk-in showers in addition to the tub/shower combos, and have huge balconies, almost the same size as the rooms themselves. There are non-smoking rooms available, although one can light up on the balcony. 

The Sunway Hotel Phnom Penh is more suited to business travelers than vacationers, and does not have a swimming pool, although it does have a large fitness center that's open to outside membership. The fitness center also includes a hot tub, steam room, and sauna facilities. There is a small spa as well. For dining, the hotel has just one restaurant, the Sun Cafe, which serves free breakfasts with an expansive selection, an outstanding gourmet lunch buffet, and then does both European and Khmer food for dinner. Across from it is the Lobby Lounge, which has comfortable chairs, along with a pool table, and seats around the bar that look out at Wat Phnom hill. There is a tiny deli in the lobby which has cakes and pastries. The hotel has a ballroom and several meeting rooms that can host groups of all sizes. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. The hotel can arrange car services, airport transfers, and babysitting services.