Rambutan Resort – Phnom Penh

The Rambutan Resort, like many of Phnom Penh's boutique hotels, looks unassuming from the outside -- it's a small low-rise building hidden behind a sliding gate -- although it does have cool wrought-iron signage marking the entrance. The gate slides open to reveal the small lobby, which is a concrete walkway with a few bicycles, plants, rattan chairs, and sofas with cushions where guests can sit while checking in. There are also some lovely contemporary portraits along the wall, a preview of the attractive artwork that is found throughout the property. The hotel has a relaxing vibe, and many guests spend the day chilling by the pool and bar. Known as one of Phnom Penh's most gay-friendly hotels, the Rambutan Resort is in a trendy neighborhood, making it popular with independent travelers seeking a homey and chill, urban escape.

The Rambutan Resort is located in the southern part of BKK1, Phnom Penh's most trendy and attractive neighborhood, which is home to countless numbers of snazzy restaurants, bars, and shops. On a quiet street with little traffic, the hotel is a bit far from the riverside and central tourist district, but these areas are about a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride away, and the hotel is within walking distance of the Russian Market and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Phnom Penh International Airport is about a 40-minute drive from the hotel.

The 19 rooms at the Rambutan Resort include Standard Rooms, Deluxe Garden and Pool View Rooms, plus one Penthouse Suite. All rooms blend an industrial look with contemporary art and offer plenty of space. Stylish poured-concrete floors, white walls, and designer furnishings like Eames plywood loungers or Plexigas lamps give them a trendy finish. All rooms have flat-screen TVs with a satellite channels, safes, minibars stocked with wine and beer, tea- and coffee-making facilities, beach baskets, bug spray, robes and slippers, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms are air-conditioned and come with fans, and the open-floor plan bathrooms have separate walk-in rain showers and toilets. Deluxe Rooms go a step further, with granite alfresco bathtubs, while Pool View Rooms have tubs right on the balconies, along with rattan chairs. Garden View Rooms have private garden terraces in the back, with pools surrounded by tropical foliage. The Penthouse Suite -- on the roof -- has a large balcony overlooking the city, plus an outdoor hot tub.

The Rambutan has a small curved saltwater swimming pool that shares courtyard space with the resort's restaurant and bar. The pool area has a mix of sun loungers and cushioned shaded enclosures, offering sun and shade throughout the day. The pool itself has a small waterfall on one side, and along with the adjacent Rambutan restaurant, which serves Western and Khmer specialties throughout the afternoon and evening, is a pleasant place to chill. The bar is lively, adding to the atmosphere. The hotel also has a small spa, with two massage rooms. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and breakfast is included in all room rates.