Breezy and atmospheric, Cambodia’s capital is on the rise, due in no small part to the growth in small, stylish hotels. Among the best is The Plantation, set in a restored 80-year-old colonial villa and three Corbusier-like structures built during the heyday of the New Khmer Architecture movement of the 1960s. The walled-off property has a resort-like calm despite being just minutes from Phnom Penh’s bustling riverside and key sights like the Royal Palace and National Museum.
The 70 rooms have clean lines and sharp angles, but earth-toned silk accents and recycled local wood keep them from feeling sparse. An alfresco restaurant serves well-executed Khmer cuisine to a nightly concert of birds and crickets, while the stunning slate-tiled infinity pool beckons all-day lounging. French owner Alexis de Suremain’s commitment to local culture is evident in
the art gallery at the entrance, which consistently hosts work that’s more than mere window dressing.
28 St. 184; 855-23/215-151; theplantation.asia; doubles from US$85.
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