Phnom Penh's Riverside Paradise: Unmissable Local Gems!
Phnom Penh's Riverside Paradise: Unmissable Local Gems! - A Hot Mess of a Review
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to spill the chai on this Phnom Penh Riverside experience. Forget those sterile, perfectly polished travel brochures – this is real life, with all its delightful chaos and unexpected treasures. Prepare for a review that’s less "five-star elegance" and more "scattered notes on a napkin after too many Chang beers."
SEO & Metadata (Gotta Play the Game, Right?):
- Keywords: Phnom Penh, Riverside, Hotel Review, Cambodia, Accessible, Spa, Pool, Restaurant, WiFi, Family Friendly, Safety, Cleanliness, Local Gems, Travel
- Meta Description: A brutally honest review of a riverside Phnom Penh hotel, warts and all! Find out if it lives up to the hype, from accessible facilities to poolside cocktails and everything in between. Prepare for real opinions, messy details, and maybe a few too many exclamation points!
Let's Dive In!
First off, the Accessibility situation. HUGE thumbs up for trying. This is not America or Europe, folks. The reality is a bit… patchy. Yes, there's an Elevator, which is crucial, praise be! But navigating the uneven sidewalks to get to the hotel? Well, let's just say my friend in a wheelchair had to channel her inner Indiana Jones a few times. Inside, they made an effort, with ramps and wider doorways. Facilities for disabled guests are definitely present, but it’s more about the intent being there than the flawless execution. The staff, bless their hearts, are super willing to help, but sometimes communication is a bridge too far. Still, I applaud the effort. HUGE respect for that.
On-site accessible restaurants / lounges: I didn't personally use these, but observed what seemed like good access. Big points here for trying. It’s definitely better than some places.
Internet, Internet, Internet! Okay, let's be real, we’re all glued to our phones. Praise be for Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and Wi-Fi in public areas. The Internet access – wireless was generally decent, but sometimes… let's just say the connection had a personality of its own. It would randomly decide it needed a nap. There was also Internet [LAN], but who uses that anymore?! I'm too hip for that.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax… Oh, Baby, Where Do I Begin!
I have to say… the Pool with view was a lifesaver. Seriously, after trekking around the sweltering city all day, that icy plunge felt like a dip in heaven. Gorgeous view too. The Swimming pool [outdoor] was fantastic. The pool boy was always hovering, ready with a towel and a smile. He deserves a raise.
And the Spa! Oh, the spa. Okay, full disclosure, I'm a sucker for a good massage. And the Massage I got? Pure bliss. I opted for the traditional Khmer massage, and my knots disappeared like they were never there. The Body scrub and Body wrap were tempting, but I was already so chilled out I didn’t want to move. I'm telling you - it was the BEST massage I’ve ever had. I almost fell asleep!
The Sauna, Steamroom, and Spa/sauna – all present and correct, though I have to admit, I didn’t brave them. I was too busy luxuriating in the pool. Call me lazy, I don’t care!
And fitness junkies? They got you covered! A Fitness center and a Gym/fitness are both available. I saw some super-toned folks using the gym equipment. I, however, was too busy working on my tan.
Cleanliness and Safety - A Few (Important) Notes:
Okay, the Cleanliness and safety is a biggie. I’m a bit of a germaphobe, so I was scrutinizing everything. The rooms were generally clean, but the devil is in the details… like the slightly suspect stain on the carpet. I kept my shoes on.
The hotel seems to be taking the whole COVID thing seriously, which is a major plus. They had Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere you looked, and Staff trained in safety protocol. Also, Rooms sanitized between stays. So, props to them.
Important: they offered Room sanitization opt-out available, which is super important. I like the freedom of choice there.
I even saw a Sterilizing equipment, so obviously they're trying to keep the place safe. They also had First aid kit, Hot water linen and laundry washing, and Hygiene certification.
The Security [24-hour] was reassuring, and there was CCTV in common areas, and CCTV outside property.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - Fueling the Fun!
Honestly, the food was pretty good, sometimes even great.
Restaurants: They've got several options. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was excellent, particularly the Pad Thai. And the Western cuisine in restaurant wasn’t half bad either, which is a relief when you crave a taste of home.
The Poolside bar was a godsend. Sipping cocktails while lounging by the pool? Yes, please! Happy hour was particularly delightful.
The Breakfast [buffet] was… well, it was a buffet. The Asian breakfast options were a bit more exciting than the Western breakfast, which was your standard fare. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was good. You could get Breakfast in room and Breakfast takeaway service, very convenient.
They had a Snack bar to keep you going. The Coffee shop was good too. Always great coffee.
Other Details, Tidbits, and Random Ramblings:
Okay, here we go!
Services and conveniences: The 24-hour Front desk was incredibly helpful. They dealt with everything, including my lost luggage (which, thankfully, they found!). Daily housekeeping was efficient.
Room Details:
- Air conditioning: Essential. Cambodia is HOT.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Yep, works. Mostly.
- In-room safe box: Peace of mind.
- Refrigerator: Crucial for keeping those beers cold.
- Seating area: Nice to have, especially if you're travelling with a partner or friend.
- Mirror: Essential for selfies or trying on new clothes.
- Additional toilet: not in all rooms.
- Non-smoking rooms: if that matters to you.
- Satellite/cable channels: if you're into TV.
Things I loved: The staff. Seriously, the staff. They were genuinely friendly and helpful, always going the extra mile. The Concierge was a lifesaver for booking tours, and the Doorman always remembered my name (or at least pretended to!). Luggage storage was great!
Things that could be better: The Wi-Fi sometimes went AWOL. The carpet in the room could use a good deep clean.
Getting around:
- Airport transfer: Available. Convenient.
- Taxi service: Easy to access.
- Valet parking: Nope, but I parked on-site, which was fine.
- Car park [free of charge]: was good
- Bicycle parking: yes.
- Car park [on-site]: was good.
For the Kids…
I didn’t bring any kids, but I saw that they have Babysitting service and were very Family/child friendly.
The Verdict:
Would I recommend this place? Yes, with a few caveats. It's not perfect, and it's not going to win any awards for flawless execution, but it has a lot of heart. It's a solid choice for Phnom Penh, particularly if you value the riverside location, the pool, the spa, and a staff that genuinely cares. It will not disappoint. Just be prepared for a few minor imperfections – and embrace the beautiful chaos of Cambodia!
LA's Hottest Hidden Gem: Hi-Way Host Motel! (You Won't Believe This!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your sanitized, bullet-pointed itinerary. This is going to be a Cambodian rollercoaster, a messy, sweaty, amazing trip through the soul of Phnom Penh's Riverside, and you're coming along for the ride. Get ready for some serious word vomit.
Phnom Penh Riverside: Operation "Don't Die of Culture Shock (or Bad Street Food)"
(Arrival Day: A Symphony of Smells and Chaos)
Morning (Maybe): Alright, let's be honest, the first thing you experience after landing at Phnom Penh International Airport is the humidity. It hits you like a warm, slightly aggressive hug. And the smell. A potent blend of exhaust fumes, something vaguely floral, and a hint of… well, Cambodia. The tuk-tuk bargain is where the fun starts. Negotiate aggressively…then, realize you’re bad at it, and probably paid triple anyway. (Remember! This is about the experience, not the saving of a few dollars). Let the driver take you to your chosen hotel near the waterfront. Today it's the The Frangipani Living Arts Hotel & Spa.
Afternoon: You’re probably still shell shocked from the traffic, so let's keep it easy. Stroll along the Sisowath Quay. This stretch of Riverside is pure sensory overload. The Mekong River looks magnificent. The buildings, a faded beauty, harken back to French Colonial times. Soak it up. Grab a $1 draught beer from a street-side cafe just to orient yourself. The constant hawking of everything from fried bananas to knock-off Rolexes becomes background noise. It's mesmerizing. Don't fall for the first vendor. They're all trying to get your attention.
Evening: The River's Embrace and the Belly's Rumble. Dinner at Romdeng. (Yes, I am going to tell you to go here. It's a social enterprise, with amazing food, and you're supporting a good cause.) It's also one of the best restaurants in the city, located in a former prison. It's pretty heavy. Then, the real test: Street food! If you're feeling brave, try the BBQ skewers. I dare you to try a fried tarantula (I did, it was… crunchy). End the night with a traditional Khmer massage. Expect the masseuse to walk on your back. If you're lucky, not too aggressively. Note: Pace yourself on that first day. Your stomach and brain are not used to this yet. You can't see everything at once.
(Day 2: Temples, Tears, and Tourist Traps)
Morning (Sunrise Optional): Okay, now for the real work. Wake up VERY early and get to Wat Phnom. It's a beautiful wat (temple) on a hill, and you get some amazing views. Avoid the overly eager guides offering "blessings." They'll rope you into spending money you don't want to.
Mid-Morning: The Killing Fields (Choeung Ek) & Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Heavy. Very Heavy. There is no sugarcoating it. This is emotionally draining. You must see it. If you're a sensitive person, bring tissues. Maybe even a stiff drink for afterwards. Take the audio guide. It is a must. Afterwards, find a quiet cafe to process. Don't rush this. It's a lot to take in.
Lunch: Food therapy. Eat at Friends Restaurant. It will feel good to be happy. If you're still recovering (and you will need time), order a beer or two.
Afternoon: The Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda. Oh, the glitz and glamour! It's beautiful…and crowded. Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered). Be prepared for pushy touts trying to get your business. Don't let them ruin your experience.
Evening: Sunset Serenity Find a spot along the river to watch the sunset. It’s gorgeous, but expect the crowds. Take a boat ride, the water is beautiful. And it's a great way to cool down after a day of heat and chaos. Enjoy a sunset beer on the way back to the hotel. Note: Expect to cry on this day. It's okay. Let yourself feel the emotions.
(Day 3: Market Mayhem & A Culinary Adventure)
Morning: Central Market (Phsar Thmey) and the Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Pong). This is where you hunt those souvenirs! Haggle, but remember, it's all about the game. Offer a price that's insulting, then start from there. The Central Market, amazing architecture too! The Russian market, even better for souvenirs! Have fun.
Lunch: Have a cooking class. Cooking Class Cambodia is a good choice. Learn to make your own Khmer dishes. It's fun, delicious, and you get to eat the results!
Afternoon: Street Art Tour - Look up for street art or ask a local for a recommendation. The city has some amazing hidden murals. Don't be afraid to get a little lost (with a map, of course).
Evening. Dinner on a Boat There is nothing bad about the idea of watching the sunset, eating a delicious dinner, and enjoying the view of the city. You can book a boat online beforehand.
(Day 4: River Journey and Departure – Or, the Aftermath)
Morning: A Day Trip to Oudong or Koh Dach (Silk Island) If you did the day trip thing, then great! If not, wake up slow, have breakfast. Pack your bags.
Farewell - You Can Do It! Don't leave without buying a few souvenirs from the local markets (and make sure you haggle!). Maybe grab a final street food snack for the trip!
Afternoon: Make your way to the airport, ready for your departure.
Evening: On the plane thinking about the trip you just took!
Ramblings, Random Observations, and Imperfections:
- The Tuk-tuk Drivers: These guys are a breed apart. They'll try to sell you everything. They know everything. They're your best friend…until they try to overcharge you. Be firm, be polite, and always agree on a price before you get in.
- The Heat: It's real. Drink tons of water (bottled, always!). Embrace the sweat. It's part of the experience.
- The Food: It's extraordinary. Don't be afraid to experiment. But trust your gut (literally).
- The Kindness: The people of Cambodia are amazing. Their resilience is inspiring. Smile at them. Try to learn a few basic Khmer phrases. A little bit of effort goes a long way.
- The Bugs: They exist. They bite. Just accept it.
- The Noise: The city is a constant symphony of honking horns, music, and chatter. It's exhausting…and exhilarating.
- You will get lost. You will get ripped off. You will feel overwhelmed. You will be amazed. You will cry. You will laugh. You will never be the same.
This is just a guide. Do what feels right. Get off the beaten path. Talk to people. Let the city wash over you. Embrace the mess. That's where the magic happens. And most of all, have an amazing time. You deserve it. You can do it. You got this.
- P.S. Don't forget to tip! It's a part of the culture to respect the ones who serve you.
Phnom Penh Riverside: My Unfiltered Guide to Paradise (and Mayhem!)
Okay, *really* – is the Riverside actually worth the hype?
Ugh, yes! And no. Let's be real, it's a chaotic mess. It's a constant assault on the senses – the tuk-tuks honking, the smells of street food (some amazing, some… less so), the touts trying to sell you everything from silk scarves to "special massage." But that's the *charm*, you know? It's alive! It's pulsating with energy. Picture this: last night, I was absolutely shattered from a day of temples. Needed a proper beer. Found this tiny little bar, *literally* on the riverbank. The lights were flickering, the music was bumping, and some random dog was asleep under my table. Perfect! So, yes. Go. Just… be prepared for the wonderfully messy, beautiful, frustrating reality of it all.
What's the *one* thing I absolutely *must* do on the Riverside? Don't hold back!
Okay, buckle up, because this is a big one for me: **Sunset cocktails at a rooftop bar overlooking the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers**. Don't ask me which one is *the* best... I’ve tried a few and honestly, they all kind of bleed together after the second gin and tonic. The point is the *view*. The colors! The way the sun just melts into the water. I swear, it’s almost spiritual. Last time, I was with this guy I met at a temple and we were literally fighting over the last spring roll... but even *that* was kind of beautiful. (Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating the beautiful part, I was hangry!) Just find a decent spot, preferably with some chill music, and let the day just… wash over you. Trust me. It's worth the inevitable price gouging on drinks.
Food! What about the food! Hit me with the *real* deals.
Alright, listen. You’re going to be bombarded with restaurants. And you *should* try them. BUT! Ditch the fancy stuff sometimes and get yourself to the street food vendors. Find the ones with a line (locals know best, usually!). I'm talking fish amok cooked in front of you, the best fresh spring rolls you'll ever taste, and those little banana pancakes that are basically heaven on a plate. Seriously, I DREAM about those. Now, be warned. Not all street food is created equal. I once ate something… let’s just say, my stomach and I had a *very* intimate relationship the following day. Carry some Imodium. And don't be afraid to point and smile, even if you have *no* idea what you’re ordering. That's part of the fun!
Should I take a boat trip? Are they worth the time/money?
Honestly? Kinda. Sometimes. Here’s the deal. Some are amazing. You get to see the city from a different perspective, watch the sunset (again, sunsets are kinda a big deal here, apparently!), and maybe even meet some cool people. BUT… Others are tourist traps. Boat trips that just trundle endlessly past the same scenery for way too much money, or worse, are full of blaring music and overly enthusiastic tour guides. Do your research. Read reviews. Maybe ask a local for a recommendation. The best advice I was given was make sure it's a smaller boat and avoid the massive party boats. Don't expect a luxury cruise, expect an experience. Oh, and bring sunscreen and a hat. You'll need it. And maybe earplugs, just in case.
What about the markets? Are they a must-see?
Yes. YES. YES! The markets are a sensory overload in the best way possible. The Central Market (Psar Thmey) is stunning – Art Deco architecture, overflowing with everything from jewelry to clothes to, well, questionable souvenirs. Then there's the Night Market. This is where things get *really* interesting. The smells, the sounds, the sheer volume of people… it's exhilarating. Expect to haggle HARD. Start low, go lower. And try to keep your belongings secure. It’s crowded, and pickpockets are, sadly, a reality. But don’t let that scare you off. It’s where you'll find some truly unique treasures (and maybe some cheap knock-offs, too! Part of the fun, right?). Just be prepared to walk away from things sometimes. My wallet (and my sanity) have thanked me for that many times.
How do I get around? Tuk-tuks? Taxis? Other options?
Tuk-tuks are your friend. They're everywhere. They're cheap. They're… well, they're an experience. Be prepared to bargain. *ALWAYS* bargain. Agree on a price *before* you get in. You'll get ripped off sometimes. It happens. Just shrug it off and learn from the experience. "Pass me the tuk tuk driver," I always say "he's the most entertaining part of the trip." Seriously, you'll see things, hear things, and experience things in a tuk-tuk you could never imagine. Taxis are also available, and Grab (the Southeast Asian Uber/Lyft) is your best friend when you're feeling tired or it's raining buckets. But honestly, sometimes, the best way to get around is on foot. Just wander. Get lost. It’s how you find the real gems. And the best street food, of course! (Just watch out for the traffic… it’s… intense.)
Is it safe? I heard… things.
Look, like any city, Phnom Penh has its issues. Petty theft is a thing. You’ll get hassled by touts. But overall? I felt safe. Safer than some major cities I've been to. Use common sense. Don't flash expensive jewelry. Don't walk alone in poorly lit areas late at night. Be aware of your surroundings. And trust your gut. If something feels wrong, it probably is. But don't let fear paralyze you. The vast majority of people are incredibly friendly and helpful. Don't be afraid to smile, say hello, and try to connect with the local culture. That's what makes the experience truly special.
Any other tips to make my trip amazing?
Embrace the chaos! Seriously. Things won't always go according to plan. You'll get lost. You'll get ripped off. You'll sweat buckets. But that's part of the adventure. Learn a few basic Khmer phrases. "Soksaby" (hello/how are you?)Hotel Hop Now
