Novotel Phnom Penh Bkk 1

“Superstar Novotel”

Aug 2026 - Refreshing my earlier review When I first visited, this Novotel had literally just opened; they were hiring for their soon-to-open rooftop bar. It was a great stay, but they were still getting everything figured out (totally normal for a new property). Since then, it has really come i… more

Aug 2026 - Refreshing my earlier review When I first visited, this Novotel had literally just opened; they were hiring for their soon-to-open rooftop bar. It was a great stay, but they were still getting everything figured out (totally normal for a new property). Since then, it has really come into its own and may be the best Novotel in the whole world. I've stayed in far more expensive luxury hotels that weren't nearly this well run or comfortable. It is a tribute to the top brass here that everything - Front Desk, F&B, Housekeeping, etc - is run flawlessly, at a superbly high level. Hotels don't run themselves, and the management here seems to be hands-on in the best way possible, with Eric (new F&B manager, absolutely lovely) and Natalie (Guest Experience Manager - khon Issan - absolute superstar) out and about and proactively interacting with guests. Also, you are in the heart of BKK1 and can walk to hundreds of restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops within a few minutes. Bassac Lane (party central) is about an 8 minute walk. There really is no need to leave the hotel, though, as the rooftop bar is probably the nicest in the city. The executive lounge features both indoor and outdoor seating areas with sensational views and surprisingly highbrow local dishes (chicken with lemongrass, grilled marinated duck, mango salad with seafood) as well as fruit and more international choices (coq au vin, for example). Mary, whom I reference below from my last visit, is still around and moves between the front desk and lounge, it is smart to have such stellar staff (she trained at the Sofitel here before shifting to help open this property) assisting guests in the lounge. Actually, that sort of explains a lot: service here is more akin to a Sofitel than a Novotel, and that is truly special. Liza, also in the lounge, could not have been any more welcoming, attentive, or detail oriented. Liza and Mary noticed, for example, how much San Pellegrino I was drinking and proactively had some sent to the room for me, and this really, really made my entire visit. I will 1,000% return here simply because of this remarkable gesture on their part. They should both be commended and celebrated (promoted?) for their attention to detail and proactive mindset. This Novotel punches far, far above its weight, and, considering the price point here, it is a no-brainer steal. Recommended in the strongest of terms, looking forward to returning Original Review - Aug 2024: Excellent stay Fantastic ALL elite recognition with an upgrade to a corner room, preemptively offered 4 PM late checkout Lovely warm welcome from Mary at the front desk, and it was a pleasure to chat with Maxim throughout our stay Gorgeous pool area and workout space Spa was busy (booking needed!) as was the Basque restaurant where we enjoyed exemplary cocktails during happy hour Room was spotless and the shower gel is heavenly, scented with gardenia Everything is brand new and everyone is working hard and on their very best behavior It was an awesome stay, and we are already looking forward to returning Rooms: 5 Service: 5 Location: 5

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