PHNOM PENH AND THE MEKONG DELTA
Named the ‘Pearl of Asia’ in the 1920s, Phnom Penh remains one of the most beautiful cities in South East Asia. Contrast the city with a cruise along the spectacular Mekong River.
The French colonial part of Phnom Penh offers a charming mix of architecture and is a delightful area to explore. Don’t miss the Grand Palace, a majestic building with immaculate gardens, perfect for wandering. The city is known for its excellent shopping and the Russian Market is top of the list. This bustling bazaar is the place to find handicrafts and antiquities as well as some great food stalls to fuel your shopping spree. The food in Phnom Penh is excellent. Enjoy a taste of French-Khmer cuisine on offer everywhere from fine dining restaurants to street stalls. You will not be disappointed.
By far the most sombre side to Phnom Penh is a visit to Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields. These sights give a glimpse into the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime during the 1970s. These are not easy tours but done quietly and with respect, they are an important part of the history of this amazing country and an opportunity to pay homage to the many people who suffered under the brutal regime.
The Mekong River spans 4,350 kilometres through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand and Cambodia, finishing in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta. This river is central to the way of life in so many of these countries and Cambodia is a fine example. The great lake of Tonle Sap supports millions of people who rely on fishing and farming around the lake. Phnom Penh is the start of the Mekong Delta where the main river breaks up into more and more branches as it fans out into Vietnam. This vast delta is home to rice paddies, fish farms, fruit orchards and floating villages all working to farm the waterways and surrounding land.
Without doubt the most luxurious way to experience the Mekong is on a river cruise. We have chosen the best boats which allow for an authentic and intimate experience as you sail along this magnificent river. Cruises vary from three days up to a week and the fabulous scenery combined with daily outings to charming riverside towns allow for a glimpse into daily life in rural Indochina.
WHERE TO STAY
Our favourite luxury hotels
Raffles Hotel Le Royal
A beautifully glamourous hotel located just off a tree-lined avenue, soak up colonial elegance and exceptional service at Raffles Hotel Le Royal. The 170 rooms and suites are stylishly decorated with polished wooden floors and crisp linens and each overlooks either the pretty tropical gardens or the refreshing pool at the centre of the hotel. Guests can choose dine on traditional Cambodian dishes or more modern French cuisine, al prepared to an exceptional standard. Enjoy a cocktail in the Elephant Bar, an iconic spot in Phnom Penh and particularly famous for its afternoon tea.
Rosewood Phonm Penh
Situated at the top of the Vattanac Capital Tower, this is a luxury hotel in an iconic building. Occupying the top 14 floors of the tower, guests can enjoy stunning views of the city. The 174 rooms and suites combine traditional style with modern technology to create a sophisticated offering. Facilities include a beautiful spa, gym and indoor swimming pool. Choose from five fabulous dining options including French, Cambodian and Japanese cuisines and covering fine dining to a more casual restaurant. The sky bar is famous as the finest spot in this hotel, if not the whole of Phnom Penh.
Penh House and Jungle Addition
A luxury boutique hotel taking inspiration from New-Khmer architecture and the tropical side of Cambodia, this is an oasis in the heart of Phnom Penh. The smooth concrete building is covered in tropical plants and the rooftop infinity pool offers breath-taking views across the royal palace and temples of the old city. The Jungle Addition is an intimate period property on a quiet street adjacent to the main house. Rooms range from bright and contemporary to vintage Khmer depending on the wing you choose. Guests from either house can dine throughout the hotel.
Aqua Mekong
A luxury boat offering exceptional style and service. Cruising the Mekong River between Cambodia and Vietnam, this is a gorgeous way to experience the river in style, viewed through panoramic windows. Some suites offer balconies and all are equipped with air con to escape from the heat. Relax on the outdoor deck or take a dip in the plunge pool. Food on board is a delicious fusion of Khmer and Vietnamese cuisines taking advantage of local markets and the catch of the day. Excursions from the boat include visits to local villages, jungle treks or cycling along the riverbank.
The Jayavarman
A luxury cruiser combining colonial French style with the romance of ancient Asia. This is a boat fit for its namesake, the Angkor king Jayavarman. The boat has three decks and the cabins are spacious, each offering floor to ceiling windows and balconies from which to enjoy a private view of the Mekong as you sail along. On the top sundeck guests can enjoy a Jacuzzi or relax inside the Henry Mouhot Lounge decorated with Asian artefacts. Guests can enjoy an indulgent treatment in the Apsara spa and dine on excellent fusion flavours in the sophisticated Indochine Dining Hall.
Mekong Navigator – Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap and vice versa
The Mekong Navigator is a sophisticated boutique river vessel, boasting 34 exquisitely designed suites and an enchanting dining space. Its inviting ambiance extends across various spacious zones, including a library, internet lounge, a splendid sun deck, and a wellness hub complete with a fitness centre and spa facilities. Reflecting the charm and elegance of the French colonial period, the vessel seamlessly integrates modern amenities and opulence, rivalling Asia’s most prestigious hotels. Each lavishly appointed suite is immaculately designed and finished, perfect for a journey along the Mekong.
Mekong Jewel – Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap and vice versa
The Mekong Jewel redefines elegance and luxury for the sophisticated traveller with 34 indulgently glamorous suites with private balcony and onboard facilities. It sets new standards in all aspects of elite river cruising including the 360-degree experience of panoramic views. The Mekong Jewel features an expansive sundeck with jet pool, Moonstone library with spirited tales of ancient Indochina, a choice of cosmopolitan dining areas with spectacular vistas as well as state of the art fitness centre, sauna and spa. Sunset cocktails at Emerald sky bar is the perfect spot to finish your day.