The Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra is an extremely good resort hotel, where all rooms, food, facilities and staff seem to be of the highest quality.

Check-in (and subsequently check-out) was speedy, friendly and painless – so we got off to a great start.

We were not disappointed. We were allocated a room with a large furnished balcony, overlooking the pool area. The first thing to strike us, in addition to the well appointed and comfortable room, was the highly polished mahogany (or perhaps very dark teak) flooring, in which you could see your face. The room was equipped with everything you were likely to need, from mini-bar and complimentary tea coffee etc., to a good range of toiletries in the large well-lit bathroom with separate bath and shower – a very good room!

The pool is large and “free form” with very attentive staff and a good bar with swim up area and tables for snacks (which could also be served at your sun bed). The sun bed parasols were a little grubby but the beds were first class – even having a small pillow. A good pool around which to relax after trips out around the Angkor / Siem Reap area.

The gardens of this hotel are a very pleasant feature as are the lakes, with walkways over. There is a spa, five restaurants and 2 bars. We ate in one on the restaurants, The Citadel, where we had a truly delicious Cambodian meal. There are also opportunities for International, French Italian and Japanese food. There seemed to be a traditional dance show in the early evening.

Breakfast is taken in The Citadel and featured an excellent buffet breakfast, from English, through continental to oriental, including Japanese. A very high quality meal.

The main bar, just off reception, is a pleasant “colonial” environment. It was, perhaps, not best suited for tourists returning from the heat and humidity of Angkor Wat. The service, however, was outstanding. There is another bar “The Wayfarers” which is meant to be in the form of an English Pub. When we visited (about 8pm) it was empty and not particularly pub like. They serve pizza and pasta from “pub” tables but have not got it right, by any means – although the staff were attentive, helpful and friendly.

There is a spa area and fitness facility, but we tried neither. I have no doubt, however that they would be to the high standard displayed throughout this hotel.

This is a well appointed, top end, hotel conveniently located for visiting Angkor Wat. The town of Siem Reap is a short 2 USD tuk-tuk ride, so the location if good.

We would stay there again. Service, staff, facilities and rooms all met or exceeded our expectations.