Where to Stay in Cambodia

There are plenty of quality places to stay in Cambodia. Despite being behind its neighbors economically, the growing tourism industry has also led to a growing hospitality industry. While the majority of visitors still seem to prefer the guesthouse scene, more upscale inns have recently begun to spring up.

Phnom Penh

DV8 Guesthouse has an adjoining bar. It has a decent expat scene and is popular with backpackers. Rory's Guesthouse is another with a bar attached, this one an Irish pub with decent pub grub. Top Banana Guesthouse has a more laid back feel, but is still a center of the backpacker scene. The Paragon Hotel offers nicer accommodations, but the cost doubles compared to the previous places. For those with deep pockets, Raffles Le Royal is worth it for its colonial french feel and superior service. There are more guesthouse-type places near the river front and also near Boeung Kak (Phnom Penh’s scenic lake).

Siem Reap

Wat Bo Road is a budget sleeper’s haven. Two Dragons Guesthouse, Mom's Guesthouse, and LyLy Guest House are a few names that pop up continuously when it comes to recommendations among travelers. Prince D'Angkor and Hôtel de la Paix are both in the town of Siem Reap and will set you back well over $100 US, if not $200. In fact, it seems that Siem Reap has more luxury hotels than the much larger Phnom Penh. The power of the tourist dollar, I guess.

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville lacks to amount and price range of the two above-mentioned spots, but it does offer a bit of a backpacker scene. Serendipity Beach is the center of Sihanoukville scene. Monkey Republic Bungalows is one that is recommended, mostly because of its adjoining restaurant. It’s worth it to wander this part of the beach and see what you like. there are lots of option. Sunset Garden Inn is a quiet spot away from the beach on Victory Hill. Coasters is a bit of an institution on Serendipity. It’s more pricey, but near the nightlife areas and well run. Malibu Beach Bungalows on Sokha Beach are great if all you want to do is hang out on the quiet stretch of sand and drink things out of coconut shells. Sokha Beach Resort is THE upscale place in town. Being a guest at the resort gets you access to some of the best sand around, but at a cost of more than $100 per night.

Whether you choose to travel in style or take in Cambodia’s vibrant backpacker scene, any of the major destinations will have a place for you.