Fodor's Expert Review Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Phnom Penh's ritziest hotel, first opened in 1929, was practically destroyed during the Khmer Rouge years and was meticulously restored by the Raffles group in 1996. A colonial landmark surrounded by manicured gardens, Le Royal has an elegant lobby, a tranquil pool area shaded by massive trees, and various bars and restaurants that are a world apart from the slightly chaotic city. Guest rooms are furnished with fine Cambodian handicrafts in an elegant colonial and art deco style and overlook the pool or gardens. Suites in the main building include claw-foot tubs from the original 1929 hotel. The Elephant Bar is famous for its cocktails (and happy hour), while the sumptuous Restaurant Le Royal serves Khmer haute cuisine.