Raffles Hotel Le Royal, one of Southeast Asia’s most renowned luxury heritage hotels located in Phnom Penh, is marking its 96th anniversary this month with a charity gala and the launch of a new art exhibition spotlighting talented young Cambodian artists. The hotel will host a charity gala dinner and art auction on Friday, Nov. 24 at its award-winning Restaurant Le Royal. The evening will feature a three-course gourmet dinner with fine wines, accompanied by a live auction of artworks created by the children of Sunrise Cambodia, a local non-profit charitable organisation.

All proceeds from the dinner and auction will directly support the care and education of underprivileged children through Sunrise Cambodia’s various programs. Tickets are priced at $96 for two persons and the evening begins at 6 p.m.

Earlier this month, Raffles Hotel Le Royal launched a heartfelt art exhibition titled ‘I Spy – The Magic of Raffles’, which invites guests to look closer at unique details of the storied hotel, a longstanding cultural landmark with a strong commitment to community, education and the arts. The children’s artworks from the exhibition will be part of the auction on Nov. 24.

“Through the eyes of Cambodia’s youth, this unique art project captures not just the beauty of our historic hotel, but also the essence of heritage, imagination and hope,” Raffles Hotel Le Royal General Manager Dagmar Lyons said.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal 96th anniversary charity event will include art projects

As part of the project, Raffles Hotel Le Royal organised an art competition for 25 children from Sunrise Cambodia. Guided by renowned Cambodian artist Chhim Sothy and supported by fellow artists Li Ming Hang and Emmeline Mulder, the children were invited to artistically interpret ‘The Magic of Raffles’ in their own way.

On Children’s Day, five outstanding artworks were selected and transformed into limited-edition postcards, now available at the Raffles Boutique, with proceeds benefiting Sunrise Cambodia’s creative education programs.

Green Globe Certification

The 96th anniversary celebrations come as Raffles Hotel Le Royal was also recently recognised for a second-straight year with an industry-leading Green Globe Certification highlighting the hotel’s commitment to sustainable practices.

The designation was awarded based on the hotel’s efficient resource management, its innovative and engaging community programmes, unique environmental initiatives and other best practices.

The Green Globe programme traces its roots back to the United Nations Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit in 1992, where 182 heads of state from around the world endorsed the Agenda 21 principles of sustainable development. Today, Green Globe has grown to become the world’s leading certification for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism worldwide.

The Green Globe Certification Standard includes 44 criteria in four groups and supported by over 380 compliance indicators. The standard has been developed over three decades and guarantees the highest level of sustainable operations and management.

For more information on the gala dinner and auction, or to make a booking at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, please contact +855 23 981 888 or visit www.raffles.com/phnom-penh.

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Cambodia has entered a new era of travel with the official opening of Techo International Airport (KTI), the country’s largest aviation project and one of the world’s biggest airports by land area.

A New Gateway to Phnom Penh

Located just south of Phnom Penh, KTI is designed as a modern hub that will transform the way travelers, businesses, and investors connect with Cambodia. The airport’s first commercial flight, operated by Air Cambodia and greeted with a ceremonial water salute, marked the beginning of this historic milestone.

Developed by Cambodia Airport Investment Co., Ltd. (CAIC) — a joint venture between the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) and the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) — the airport reflects Cambodia’s growing commitment to infrastructure and regional connectivity.

With an initial capacity of 13 million passengers annually, KTI is set to enhance tourism, expand trade routes, and position Phnom Penh as a competitive aviation hub in Southeast Asia.

Global Partners for World-Class Standards

Exterior shot of the new Techo International Airport Cambodia

To deliver international-quality service, CAIC has partnered with industry leaders including Vinci Airports, Lagardère Travel Retail, Newrest, and Singapore Airlines Engineering Company (SIAEC). Their combined expertise ensures top-class operations, dining, shopping, and aircraft maintenance, helping KTI expand regional and long-haul connectivity in the years to come.

“Welcoming the first passengers at Techo International Airport is a defining moment,” said Pung Kheav Se, Chairman of OCIC and CAIC. “It opens new doors for Cambodia’s visitors, businesses, and investors, while shaping a stronger future for our nation.”

Architecture Inspired by Khmer Heritage

Designed by the renowned British firm Foster + Partners, the terminal showcases a striking blend of Khmer tradition and contemporary architecture. Bamboo-patterned domes reflect Cambodia’s weaving culture, while a nine-meter Buddha statue in the Abhayamudra pose welcomes passengers with peace and protection.

This unique design not only emphasizes cultural pride but also embraces sustainability, symbolizing Cambodia’s vision of progress rooted in tradition.

A Landmark Project by OCIC

The launch coincides with the 25th anniversary of OCIC, one of Cambodia’s most influential conglomerates. Over the past two decades, the group has contributed to the country’s transformation through real estate, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and industrial projects. With more than 10,000 homes, bridges, and flyovers built, the new Techo International Airport stands as OCIC’s most ambitious achievement to date.

What It Means for Travelers

The first passengers arrive at Techo International Airport

For visitors, KTI represents easier access to Cambodia’s rich cultural and natural attractions — from the temples of Angkor Wat to the beaches of Sihanoukville and the vibrant streets of Phnom Penh. The airport will streamline travel experiences, offering modern facilities, wider flight options, and smoother connections.

As Cambodia strengthens its position in regional and global air networks, KTI is more than an airport — it is a gateway to discovery.

For more on Cambodia’s tourism and travel updates, visit the Ministry of Tourism Cambodia.

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For centuries, the mere mention of Cambodia has conjured an image of mystery and adventure. From Angkor, the seat of the mighty Khmer empire, which flourished as one of Asia’s most important civilisations, to Phnom Penh, a modern, bustling royal metropolis, Cambodia today is one of the most popular destinations for travelers from around the world.

Now, Raffles Hotel Le Royal in the capital and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap have come together to introduce an exclusive new 7-day stay package, ‘A Tale of Two Cities’, billed as ‘a journey like no other, where grand history, enchanted glamour and extraordinary adventure entwine’. The experience takes in the wonders of both destinations, including the iconic luxury hotels – both in their ninth decade – which are historic landmarks in their own right.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Landmark Suite

The curated journey begins in Phnom Penh, where guests stay at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, which opened in 1929 and combines an elegant past with a bold, contemporary style inspired by French colonial, Khmer and Art Deco influences, including spacious rooms and suites. Here, visitors meet their Raffles Butler, who will assist with local excursions and hotel activities. The Resident Historian is also on hand to guide visitors through the hotel’s storied legacy.

The following two days include outings with the official biographer of Cambodia’s royal house who guides visitors to the nearby Royal Palace of Cambodia. Guests also visit the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture and much more, where they are privately led by the museum’s lead curator. And a special afternoon tea is arranged with Cambodian royalty, Her Highness Princess Chansita Norodom.

The experience in the capital also includes special local culinary activities, an architectural tour and a Khmer fine-dining meal at the hotel’s Restaurant Le Royal, including a five-course wine dinner highlighting the ultimate in Cambodian gastronomy.

On Day Four, guests travel by private helicopter from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, where they check into Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, whose design features an authentic expression of 1930s French Art Deco style. They are welcomed by their Raffles Butler, who will guide them to their poolside suite or glorious royal villa.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor’s ‘Lost Civilisations of Angkor by Vespa’ tour

In Siem Reap, visitors explore the ancient Khmer archeological site of Angkor – one of the world’s most popular UNESCO heritage sites – on a cozy Vespa scooter. The tour includes stops at the temple ruins of Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm, along with some of the complex’s lesser-known architectural wonders.

The next morning, guests watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat and further explore the surrounding archeological sites before visiting a local art gallery and the floating village of Chong Kneas at Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. The evening concludes with an exceptional Khmer dinner at the hotel’s 1932 restaurant.

Guests also visit Banteay Srei, considered to be the most intricate of all of Cambodia’s temples, the crown jewel of Angkorian art. They also visit a dance school under royal patronage and the last remaining elephants of Angkor in Kulen National Park.

In the evening, guests culminate their ‘journey of a lifetime’ with a magical temple dinner at Angkor Archeological Park, illuminated by blazing torches and flickering candles.

The final morning includes a hot-air balloon ride above the temples of Angkor that also takes in the bucolic countryside dotted with sugar palm trees – a fitting farewell to this legendary tale of two cities.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

The package is part of Raffles’ global ‘The Butler Did It’ campaign, which features one-of-a-kind, signature experiences across five continents, with a focus on the uncompromising levels of personalised service performed by Raffles’ legendary butlers since 1887.

To book part or all of this itinerary, Raffles requires two months’ advance notice. Seasonalities, royal duties and the availability of hosts and other elements of the itinerary are subject to change. Pricing is available upon request. More details on ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ can be found here: www.raffles.com/siem-reap/experiences/A-Tale-Of-Two-Cities/.

For more information on Raffles Hotel Le Royal, please contact +855 23 981 888 or visit www.raffles.com/phnom-penh. For Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, please call +855 23 982 598 or visit www.raffles.com/siem-reap/

The post Raffles Cambodia Unveils Exclusive 7-Day Journey appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Lawrence Osborne’s “Hunters in the Dark” immerses readers in the mystique of Cambodia, weaving a tale of intrigue and self-discovery against the backdrop of its enigmatic landscape. Set amidst the lush jungles and ancient ruins of this Southeast Asian nation, Osborne’s novel captures the essence of Cambodia, from its haunting beauty to its dark undercurrents of history and culture.

Lawrence Osborne

The story follows the journey of Robert Grieve, a disillusioned Englishman seeking to escape the monotony of his life by embarking on a spontaneous trip to Cambodia. As he ventures deeper into the country’s remote regions, he becomes entangled in a web of secrets and betrayals that lead him down a path of unexpected consequences.

Osborne’s depiction of Cambodia is vivid and evocative, painting a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and sensations that transport readers to the heart of this mesmerizing land. From the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to the tranquil temples of Angkor Wat, the novel captures the essence of Cambodia‘s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

What sets “Hunters in the Dark” apart is its exploration of Cambodia‘s complex history and the lingering effects of its turbulent past. Osborne delves into the country’s dark legacy of war, genocide, and political upheaval, weaving these themes seamlessly into the fabric of the narrative. Through the eyes of his characters, he offers poignant insights into the resilience of the Cambodian people and the enduring scars of their collective trauma.

Angkor Wat

At its core, “Hunters in the Dark” is a gripping tale of suspense and mystery, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Yet, it is also a deeply introspective novel that delves into the complexities of human nature and the search for meaning in a world fraught with uncertainty.

In conclusion, Lawrence Osborne’s “Hunters in the Dark” is a compelling exploration of Cambodia‘s captivating landscape and its profound impact on the human psyche. Through its immersive storytelling and nuanced characterizations, the novel offers a poignant meditation on identity, destiny, and the enduring quest for redemption in the face of adversity. For those intrigued by the allure of Cambodia or simply in search of a riveting literary journey, “Hunters in the Dark” is a must-read.

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Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the luxury heritage hotel in the Cambodian capital, has earned a prestigious Four-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide, whose designations are among the most highly sought after in the global luxury hospitality industry.

“Raffles Hotel Le Royal has been Phnom Penh’s defining word in opulence ever since its doors first swung open in 1929,” the guide’s inspectors wrote in their review of the hotel.

“It’s still the go-to for Cambodian high society looking to host wedding banquets and celebratory balls, while the colonial wood-paneled Elephant Bar is a must for post-event drinks. This is also the best place in Phnom Penh to enjoy afternoon tea; the refined airs and immaculately attired staff practically transport you back in time,” it added.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal was one of only two hotels in Phnom Penh to be recognized by Forbes Travel Guide last month. The Four-Star rating denotes “exceptional properties, offering high levels of service and quality of facility to match.” Forbes Travel Guide, originally launched in 1958 (then as Mobil Travel Guide), is the oldest travel guide in the United States and the creator of the original Five-Star rating system for hotels.

The guide’s inspectors further praised Raffles Hotel Le Royal’s timeless elegance, saying, “While all accommodations [at the hotel] offer Old World luxury, the Landmark Rooms serve as a beautiful time capsule. The high-ceilinged rooms appear much as they did in 1929, including their enticing claw-foot baths.”

They also gave their highest approval to Restaurant Le Royal, the hotel’s signature Khmer fine-dining venue, calling it “one of the best meals in town.” Raffles Hotel Le Royal features 175 rooms and suites that underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Forbes award

“There is no greater honour for a hotel than to be recognized by Forbes Travel Guide. Our staff understand we are all caretakers of an incredible legacy in the Grand Dame of Cambodian hospitality, and we look forward each day to providing warm and attentive service to all of our cherished guests,” said Raffles Hotel Le Royal’s General Manager Dennis de Groot.

The Forbes Travel Guide designation adds to a growing list of awards for the historic property. In January, the UK-based Luxury Lifestyle Magazine named Raffles Hotel Le Royal one of the world’s best city hotels (No. 24 overall). Travel + Leisure named it one of the top city hotels in Cambodia last year. And it was voted the No. 1 hotel in Cambodia by readers of Condé Nast Traveler in its annual Readers’ Choice Awards the previous year.

For more information on Raffles Hotel Le Royal, or to make a booking, please contact +855 23 981 888 or visit www.raffles.com/phnom-penh.

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Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the luxury heritage hotel in the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, was recently voted one of the world’s best city hotels by readers of the UK-based Luxury Lifestyle Magazine. The hotel placed No. 24 on the list and was the only hotel in Cambodia honored in its category in the LLM Readers’ Travel Awards 2023, which were announced last month.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal originally opened in 1929 and today features 175 rooms and suites that underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019. The latest award adds to a growing list of recognitions for the historic property.

State Room Pool View at Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Last year, the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific named Raffles Hotel Le Royal one of the top city hotels in Cambodia, General Manager Dennis de Groot was honored as one of the country’s top hotel GMs, and the swimming pool was declared the very best in all of Cambodia.

It was also voted the No. 1 hotel in Cambodia by readers of Condé Nast Traveler in its popular annual Readers’ Choice Awards the previous year.

For more information on Raffles Hotel Le Royal, or to make a booking, please contact +855 23 981 888 or visit www.raffles.com/phnom-penh.

ABOUT RAFFLES

Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

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Two of Cambodia’s most iconic luxury hotels — Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap — are set to celebrate the festive season with exclusive fine dining and other memorable events.

Both historic hotels will hold their popular annual Christmas tree-lighting ceremonies on Nov. 30 where Nordmann fir trees imported from Norway will glow for the first time. The hotels are being strewn with glittering lights, wreaths and other festive décor ahead of the holiday season.

Highlights from this year’s Christmas and New Year programs at the hotels include the following:

CHRISTMAS

Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Raffles Hotel Le Royal will serve an exclusive 5-course “Wagyu and Bordeaux Grand Crus” set dinner at Restaurant Le Royal on Dec. 24, with an optional wine pairing. A stylish “Christmas Eve in Paris” buffet dinner will be served at Le Phnom 1929 featuring a grand Parisian Brasserie-style buffet, with free-flow French wines and festive cocktails.

The special “Le Royal Christmas Day Brunch” at Restaurant Le Royal on Dec. 25 will feature a lavish spread of premium seafood, artisan cheese and charcuteries, terrines and live carvery stations, with Wagyu beef, oven-roasted turkey and lamb. Signature wines and festive cocktails are unlimited, and there is also an unlimited Champagne option. The delectable “Christmas Day Set Dinner” at Le Phnom 1929 will include perennial favorites such as turkey and scallops.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, an extraordinary 7-course “Epicurean Journey” menu curated by Executive Sous Chef Dorn Doeurt will be served on Dec. 24 and Dec. 25 at the upscale 1932 restaurant. The hotel’s resident sommelier will guide guests through the most favorable wine pairings for each course. Diners are also invited to enjoy a special 4-course “Epicurean Journey” menu on Dec. 24 and Dec. 25, with Tournedos Rossini taking center stage, at Café d’Angkor.

“A Magical Christmas Day Brunch” will be served on Dec. 25 from 12pm in the hotel lobby or poolside accompanied by live holiday tunes, in a celebration befitting jolly old Saint Nicholas himself. The brunch also includes optional free-flow Champagne.

NEW YEAR’S

Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Ring in 2024 at one of three exclusive countdown events at Raffles Hotel Le Royal. The gala “New Year’s Eve in the Tropics” evening includes dinner, dancing and a party at Le Phnom 1929 and outside on the terrace. The festivities kick off with a grand buffet featuring BBQ stations and Cuban culinary classics, before a live Cuban band ushers in the New Year. Restaurant Le Royal will serve a sumptuous 4-course dinner, with each table receiving a bottle of Henriot Brut Champagne – to be opened using the noble art of sabrage! Finally, the “New Year’s Eve Premium Oyster Night” at Elephant Bar will feature signature oysters and exclusive, handcrafted cocktails in an elegant and sophisticated setting.

The “New Year’s Day French Riviera Brunch” on Jan. 1 will spotlight traditional Mediterranean favorites along with a free-flow mimosa and spritz bar, served at Le Phnom 1929. The exclusive “New Year Day Set Dinner,” also at Le Phnom 1929, will include a mouthwatering 4-course set menu featuring premium seafood and meats, along with an optional wine pairing.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

Step into a world of magic and grandeur at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor’s Poolside Terrace as the iconic Grand Dame sets the stage for the most anticipated event on the holiday calendar. “The Grand Circus New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner” will usher in the New Year on Dec. 31 in true style, starting from 7pm. The evening will include a lavish dinner buffet with live stations, music performances and mesmerizing circus acts from Phare Circus, which has been thrilling Siem Reap for over 10 years. At the stroke of midnight, the scene will come alive with a New Year countdown and fireworks, welcoming the arrival of 2024.

More Festive Events at Raffles Hotel Le Royal

“Festive High Tea & Carols” will be hosted in the Raffles Hotel Le Royal lobby, with special Christmas-themed pastries and songs from a live choir. Presented on Dec. 3, 10, 17 and 24.

Young gourmands are invited to join a fun-filled gingerbread-making class at Le Phnom 1929 on Dec. 9, 16 and 23.

The “Gingerbread Pop-Up Christmas Boutique” at the Raffles Boutique will offer a selection of festive treats throughout December including premium chocolate, Stolen, Panettone, special-edition Negroni, take-away foods like oven-roasted turkey and much more.

Throughout December, Raffles Hotel Le Royal will also offer an exciting Henriot Brut Champagne promotion, providing coupons with each purchase of a glass or bottle of Champagne that can be used toward exclusive benefits such as Christmas Day Brunch, a stay in a Henriot Suite or New Year’s Day Dinner.

The hotel’s “Festive Indulgence in the Kingdom” stay package features rates starting from $475 net per room, with an extra night from $225 net. The “Raffles Christmas Staycation” includes room, festive cocktails, Champagne breakfast and Christmas dinner for two persons, along with complimentary entrance to the “Chopin at Christmas” piano concert on Dec. 24. The “Raffles New Year’s Staycation” includes room, Champagne breakfast, complimentary entry to the Tropicana New Year’s Eve Dinner and Dance countdown, a complimentary spa experience and a complimentary babysitter (upon request).

More Festive Events at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

The lively “Champagne Afternoon Tea,” held in the Conservatory at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, will include delicate finger sandwiches, perfectly baked macarons and handcrafted pastries, along with a selection of warming teas and Champagne throughout December.

“Mulled Wine & Cookies” will also be served in the Conservatory from Dec. 1-30.

Restaurant Le Royal at Raffles Hotel Le Royal will serve special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals

The hotel’s iconic Elephant Bar will feature a special menu of distinctive holiday cocktails throughout the month of December.

To celebrate the annual Angkor Wat International Marathon on Dec. 3, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor will host an exclusive Champagne Brunch with premium grilled meats, fresh seafood, international breakfast classics and more, along with delicious vegan and vegetarian options.

Cafe d’Angkor will host an exciting “Gingerbread-Making Class” for youngsters on Dec. 9 from 3pm.

Guests are invited to dress up as their favorite circus characters for a thrilling “Circus Fancy Dress Party” at Elephant Bar on Dec. 16.: Dress up as a clown, trapeze artist, master of ceremony or ringmaster, keeping it stylish and playful. The party starts at 6:30pm.

The festive classic movie “Home Alone” will be screened at 6:30pm on Dec. 16 at the Poolside Garden under the stars, with wine and delicious canapés.

Throughout December, spa-goers at Raffles Spa can relax with a combined session of exfoliation and massage for a top-to-toe experience. This all-natural treatment begins with a 30-minute Honey Tamarind Scrub that buffs away dull skin followed by a 60-minute Massage to ease stress and aches.

An exclusive holiday “Luxury Escape Package” at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor starts at $480++ per night.

***

For reservations or inquiries about Raffles Hotel Le Royal, please contact +855 23 981 888 or email dining.leroyal@raffles.com (for dining) or bookus.phnompenh@raffles.com (for bookings).

For Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, please contact +855 23 982 598 or email dining.grandhotel@raffles.com (for dining) or bookus.siemreap@raffles.com (for bookings).

The post Raffles Cambodia Unveils Exclusive Festive Season Celebrations appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

The iconic Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel Le Royal won four honors at the “Top 30 Bars Cambodia” awards for 2023, earning recognition for its signature cocktails, impeccable service and distinctive special events. The outlet was recognised as the “Top Bar of the Year” in the awards, which were announced on March 30. It was also named one of the “Top 30 Bars in Cambodia” and landed two honours for “Top Bar Team of the Year” in separate awards presented by Heineken and Chivas Regal.

“The Elephant Bar is a long-time institution in Phnom Penh,” General Manager Dennis de Groot said. “Over the past nine decades, we’ve welcomed the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham and Jacqueline Kennedy, who sipped our first Femme Fatale, which is now a signature cocktail.” The awards were announced as the bar introduces many unique special events this year.

The World Gin Tour, launched in January, showcases highlights from one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse and thoughtfully curated gin collections, with more than 150 labels. Each month introduces a new special cocktail menu featuring refreshing drinks made with a different country’s gin, in addition to a “gin masterclass” that includes cocktail flights for two hours highlighting the featured gin (priced at $28).

Additionally, Elephant Bar’s popular “bar takeover” series has welcomed top regional bartenders, such as Wong Wee Siong of the renowned Smoke & Mirrors rooftop cocktail bar in Singapore who mixed exclusive drinks for Elephant Bar patrons in April.

In March, Raffles Hotel Le Royal hosted the Confrérie du Sabre d’Or, the worldwide organization dedicated to the noble art of Champagne sabrage. The group is globally renowned among Champagne aficionados for the ritual, which involves severing the top of the bottle with a sword.

Elephant Bar exudes timeless charm and sophistication with its rich wood accents, colorful ceiling frescoes and historic photographs on the walls, while wicker chairs and leather sofas bask behind high French windows and arched colonnades in true colonial style.

Voted the No. 1 hotel in Cambodia by readers of the US-based travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler in its annual Readers’ Choice Awards in October, Raffles Hotel Le Royal originally opened in 1929. The hotel features 175 rooms and suites that underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019.

For more information or to make a booking, call 023 981 888 or email dining.leroyal@raffles.com.

The post Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel Le Royal appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Feast this Easter on the Beach at Koh Samui

The idyllic beachfront resort of Banyan Tree Samui is hosting a plethora of Easter dining specials this year, starting with a “Shorts & Barefoot Beach BBQ” at Sands Restaurant from 7pm – 10pm on 5th April. The price of 2,300 THB nett per person includes local draft beers and drinks, plus a fire show. This will be followed on 7th April with a “Good Friday Fish & Seafood Buffet”, also at Sands from 7pm to 10pm, which will be accompanied by live music from the Mango Bongo Band. Price is 3,200 THB nett per person. Finally, an “Easter Sunday BBQ Buffet Dinner” will be the highlight at Sands from 7pm to 10pm on 9th April, featuring live music and a fire show. Price is 2,950 THB nett per person. For all reservations and inquiries, write to: sands-samui@banyantree.com or telephone: +66 077 915 333.

High Tea in Krabi

Set in a tranquil corner of Tubkaek Beach in Krabi overlooking the limestone cliffs of the Andaman Sea, Banyan Tree Krabi will host a High Tea Buffet this Easter Sunday, April 9, from 1pm – 4pm at The Naga Kitchen restaurant. Costing 750 THB nett per person, the high tea will consist of savoury canapés such as sandwiches, tortilla wraps and quiche lorraine, plus a tantalising selection of sweet pastries including chocolate truffle tarts, cheesecake, macarons, and a special espresso martini affogato. For inquiries and reservations, call +66 75 811 888 or visit: https://www.banyantree.com/thailand/krabi

A Mountain Immersion with a Full Board Offer in Mai Chau

The mountainside getaway, Avana Retreat, is offering guests 25% of their new full board packages that allow visitors to take in all the highlights of this secluded location. Over Easter and beyond visitors can book a two-night, three-day stay that includes a round-trip limousine transfer, two nights in Bauhinia Mountain Suite, a full breakfast daily, two 3-course lunches, and two 4-course dinners at Green Chili Restaurant; an afternoon snack each day at the Cloud Pool; a trekking and jeep tour; a 60-minute full body massage at Orchid Spa; and a craft & cultural workshop at the Stilt House Museum. Prices start at VND 13,982,000 ++ (approx $600++) per two people, inclusive of the current 25% off promotion. The property is located in Vietnam’s north, an area that has become famous for stunning terraced rice paddies and the rich culture of local ethnic groups. For more information visit: https://page.avanaretreat.com/full-board-packages-details

Easter Brunch, Egg Hunts and More in Cambodia

At Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, diners will enjoy an extraordinary brunch featuring lamb roast, a premium seafood bar, and an exquisite chocolate and pastry station in the hotel’s iconic lobby (priced at $75++ per person or $105++ with free flow Champagne). In Siem Reap, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor will celebrate Easter with an elegant Sunday brunch in addition to a complimentary Easter egg hunt for kids on the lush grounds of the hotel (priced at $55++ per person; $65++ with free flow house wine and mimosas; $75++ with free flow Champagne Brut). For more visit https://www.raffles.com/phnom-penh/ or https://www.raffles.com/siem-reap/.

Celebrate Easter Sunday in Style in the Vietnamese Capital

Sofitel Legend MetropoleHanoi is marking Easter with a host of exclusive meals and family-friendly activities, including an Easter egg hunt in the hotel garden with special prizes. A family brunch will be served in Spices Garden from 11:30am to 2:30pm, while an extravagant Sunday Brunch will be available in the award-winning and recently renovated Le Beaulieu. A chocolate buffet from 3pm to 5:30pm in the bright and airy Le Club Bar will serve up an assortment of delectable bonbons, scones, petits four, cakes and more – as well as a chocolate fountain. For more information or to make a booking, please contact 0243 826 6919 (ext. 8200) or h1555-fb3@sofitel.com.

Easter Buffet, Spa Pampering and Activities on Ho Tram Beach

Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort will bring family and friends together over a buffet featuring fresh seafood, hand-carved roasted meats, traditional favorites, delectable desserts and more to a backdrop of live music. “Easter Special Buffet” on April 8 from 6.30-9.30pm is priced at VND 999,000++ for kids aged four to 11, and from VND 1,599,000++ per adult. During the buffet, a “Fun Kids Corner” will host easter egg decoration, a kids movie, balloon twisting and other exciting kids activities. From April 7-9, bunny jumping, bunny facial painting, egg decoration and egg hunting will be held at the beach garden and kids club Kidsdom. To mark World Health Day and Easter, from April 3-8 YHI Spa offers a 60-minute body wrap, sugar scrub or sea salt scrub for VND 690,000++ per guest. Visit melia.com, email info@meliahotram.com or call +84 254 378 9000.

Getaway Packed with Easter Fun on Cam Ranh Peninsula

Alma Resort is offering an Easter package replete with an Easter pastry class for the kids, bonfire with roasted marshmallows, movie nights at Alma Cinema and under the stars, egg hunting, egg painting, card making, face painting and more. Anchored by a minimum one-night stay on April 8 and/or April 9 in a one bedroom suite or pavilion for two adults and two kids under 12, the package includes a daily international breakfast, F&B credit for VND 500,000, kids mini golf, kite competitions on the lawn, giant bubbles, fun with Alma’s mascot teddy and clown, a garden discovery tour, use of the outdoor sports courts, and access to Splash Waterpark with a lazy river, wave pool, kids pool and water slides, as well as the kids club and youth club. The American Lounge & Bar will craft Easter-themed cocktails and the French Bakery will offer treats including chocolate rabbits and hot cross buns. Visit alma-resort.com/rooms/easter-day-fun-package

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Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, one of Cambodia‘s most iconic hotels, is set to welcome Michelin-starred French Chef Patrice Hardy, who will present some of his most celebrated culinary creations during two days of exclusive meals at the hotel’s renowned Restaurant Le Royal on March 30 and 31.

Chef Patrice’s gastronomic expertise draws from his extensive experience in illustrious restaurants worldwide, including the two-Michelin-starred Le Palme d’Or at Hotel Martinez in Cannes and the one-Michelin-starred La Brettonnière in Boulogne-Billancourt and La Truffe Noire in Neuilly.

The back-to-back lunch and dinner offerings will feature highlights from his latest culinary venture, Le Mazet, located on France’s southern coast. The Michelin Guide has praised Chef Patrice’s love for fine produce, particularly truffles, which feature prominently on his special dinner menu.

Restaurant Le Royal at Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Dinner guests will savour a five-course meal that includes a veal tartare with Borghi truffle, goose liver in “Bonbonnière” with green asparagus and yellow wine emulsion, poached sea bass with artichoke duo and truffle butter, beef onglet marinated with caramelised shallots and red cabbage, and a sumptuous bread pudding with aged cognac siphon and apple-prune purée. The dinner is priced at $95++.

For lunch, guests can choose from a three-course menu that features creamy Parmesan cheese soup with poached egg or marinated mackerel fillets with beetroot and ketchup sorbet. The main course includes Takeo River lobster risotto spicy bisque or free-range chicken supreme stuffed with potato mash and cola sauce, and a dark chocolate tart with parsley ice cream to conclude. Lunch is priced at $38++.

To complement the exquisite meals, guests will also have the opportunity to discover the exclusive Louis XIII Cognac Experience, which will be served tableside from a decanter. Wine pairings are also available for both lunches and dinners.

Seating for this exclusive event is limited, and advanced reservations are required. For inquiries and reservations, please contact Raffles Hotel Le Royal at Tel: 023 981 888 or email: dining.leroyal@raffles.com.

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The worldwide organisation dedicated to the noble art of Champagne sabrage will host two exclusive events in Cambodia next month with 5-star Raffles hotels, including at Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh and, for the first time ever, at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap.

Confrérie du Sabre d’Or is internationally renowned among Champagne aficionados for the ritual, which involves severing the top of the bottle with a sword. Champagne sabrage dates to the era of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, who is said to have cherished a drink of Champagne from bottles newly opened with a military saber after every winning battle.

The noble art of Champagne sabrage will be celebrated at two Raffles hotels in Cambodia

Raffles is the only establishment in Cambodia where one can experience the official ceremony and has scheduled two exclusive events in March. Raffles Hotel Le Royal’s Restaurant Le Royal on Friday, March 17 will serve a special four-course French menu with Champagne pairing priced at $145++ per person. Each guest is invited to saber a bottle of Champagne and officially join the Confrérie du Sabre d’Or. This will mark the second time the ceremony has been held at the hotel; the first occurred in 2019.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor on Sunday, March 19 will host the ceremony for the first time ever, with a luxurious brunch at Café d’Angkor including live music. The event is priced from $55++ per person or $95++ with free flow Champagne.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Established more than 200 years ago by stylish young French military officers, the traditional sabrage ceremony will be conducted by the Grand Master of La Confrérie du Sabre d’Or in the historic Raffles properties.

The master holds a bottle of Champagne by the heel, then slides his or her sword up and down the neck of the bottle to warm it. Then, in a single smooth movement, the master accelerates his or her arm forward, sliding the saber firmly along the neck of the bottle and—hopefully—decapitating the ring, or top neck of the bottle, and sending a gush of Champagne all over the floor and sometimes fellow guests.

For more information on this special event at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, please call +855 23 981 888 or email dining.leroyal@raffles.com. For Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, please call +855 63 963 888 or email dining.grandhotel@raffles.com. Or visit www.raffles.com/phnom-penh/ or www.raffles.com/siem-reap/.

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The iconic Elephant Bar at the 90-year-old Raffles Hotel Le Royal has launched a new “World Gin Tour” showcasing highlights from one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse and thoughtfully curated gin collections. The yearlong “World Gin Tour” spotlights select labels from Elephant Bar’s collection of more than 150 distinctive gins from around the world. Whether classic concoctions or modern inventions, Elephant Bar’s expert bartenders can make them all.

Each month will introduce a new special cocktail menu featuring refreshing drinks made with a different country’s gin, in addition to a “gin masterclass” that includes cocktail flights for two hours highlighting the featured gin (priced at $28). Upcoming stops on the tour include Australian gin (February), Spanish gin (March), Cambodian gin (April) and Irish gin (May). The “World Gin Tour” kicked off in January with French gin. Each stop on the tour begins with an exclusive, one-night “bar takeover” featuring guest mixologists.

Guests are invited to fill up their “gin passes” and win exciting prizes. The pass consists of 12 stamps. Those who get six stamps will receive a complimentary Elephant Bar gin masterclass; nine stamps wins a complimentary bottle of Elephant Bar Dry Gin; and 12 stamps earns a cocktail tailormade by the guest to be featured on Elephant Bar’s menu for one month.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal’s iconic Elephant Bar

With its rich wood accents, colourful ceiling frescoes and historic photographs on the walls, Elephant Bar is a long-time institution in Phnom Penh. Wicker chairs and leather sofas bask behind high French windows and arched colonnades in true colonial style. Among the bar’s guests over the past 90+ years have been Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham and Jacqueline Kennedy, who sipped the first Femme Fatale—now a signature cocktail at Elephant Bar.

Elephant Bar was recently nominated for Cambodia’s Top 30 Bar Awards. Voted the No. 1 hotel in Cambodia by readers of the US-based travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler in its annual Readers’ Choice Awards in October, Raffles Hotel Le Royal originally opened in 1929. The hotel features 175 rooms and suites that underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019.

For more information or to make a booking, call 023 981 888 or email dining.leroyal@raffles.com.

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The Art of Romance in Bali

‘The Art of Romance’ is a two-night stay with all the romantic trimmings at a secluded resort in the uplands of Bali. Upon arrival at Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, each couple will find a floral aromatherapy bath already drawn in their room and a welcome cake. After that it’s time for afternoon tea, served picnic style while overlooking the scenic rice paddies the property is known for. A photo session, shot throughout the grounds, uses mythical stone sculptures, ponds graced with swans, rice paddies, temples, and the verdant landscape as a backdrop. At the resort’s Tempayan restaurant, housed in a traditional bale-inspired building, the duo will enjoy a three-course candlelit meal. A 120-minute couples spa ritual in a deluxe double spa suite, with an oversized semi-outdoor terrazzo bath, and private steam shower, rounds out the romantic stay and is accompanied by a bottle of sparkling wine to be enjoyed in or out of the tub. The package is on offer for bookings until June 30, 2023. Rates start from USD 1,190 nett. For more information visit: https://www.tanahgajahubud.com/en/offers-promotion/the-art-of-romance

Igniting Amour in Quy Nhon

If one way to the heart routes through the stomach, guests of Fusion Hotel Group’s gastronomy-focused property Maia Resort Quy Nhon are getting a head start when it comes to love. Maiamour, the resort’s recently unveiled package, is designed for couples and blends wellness and cuisine over the course of a three-night stay. The stay is inclusive of an array of personalized offerings including Once Upon a Table, a four-course chef’s table style experience served in the resort’s intimate specialty restaurant, ad hoc, or Destination Dining which can be enjoyed on the powdery sands of Phuong Mai Bay or in villa. Daily pre-dinner sunset cocktails are also included as is a one-time artisanal afternoon tea set. Maia’s seaside spa, Vēla, invites couples to enjoy a signature 90-minute wellness journey inclusive of an infrared sauna therapy session; body rejuvenation rituals inclusive of massages; healing therapies or anti-ageing facial care treatments. Carefully appointed in-villa décor, including a customized floral arrangement and romantic bath ritual, are also part of the Maiamour offering. Rates start at VND 23,7000,000 for a three-night stay.

For more details regarding inclusions or rates, please contact the Reservations Department via email at reservations.mrqn@fusionhotelgroup.com or visit Maia Resort’s website https://quynhon.maiaresorts.com/

Commemorating that special someone in Tokyo

Palace Hotel Tokyo‘s celebration-worthy stay experience ‘Commemorating Tokyo‘ presents ten elements specially curated to mark the Forbes Five-Star property’s ten-year anniversary milestone. Ideal for couples highlights include: A three-night stay for the price of two; ‘Blooming’ cocktails for two at Royal Bar, the hotel’s Old-World bar, or at Lounge Bar Privé, made with a refreshing blend of yuzu liqueur, sakura liqueur, Lillet Blanc and the hotel’s signature 1-1-1 sake; daily moat-side breakfast at Grand Kitchen, a bottle of Palace Hotel Tokyo’s private-label Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Bordeaux to take home or indulge during the stay; a box of the hotel’s signature chiyo choco chocolate imprinted with distinctive Japanese motifs; a prix-fixe dinner for two at contemporary French restaurant Esterre, teppanyaki-style restaurant GO, or Wadakura, known for its exquisite Japanese kaiseki; two 120-minute ‘Blissful Moments’ treatments at evian SPA TOKYO; and afternoon tea for two. The package is available for stays until May 31, 2023. Rates start at JPY 410,000. For more information, please visit: https://en.palacehoteltokyo.com/offer/tokyo-anniversary-celebration-package

Soak in Some Romance in Saigon

Stevie Wonder’s “My Cherie Amour,” may be the perfect tune to play on repeat while enjoying Fusion’s signature hammock tub at Fusion Suites Saigon. Two nights in the Corner Suite Room, with 180-degree floor-to-ceiling windows and an insta-worthy bath, is the core element of the hotel’s “Ma Cherie” romance package. The limited-time stay includes flower decoration (on the bed or in the tub), a bouquet of roses, a bottle of wine and one daily spa treatment per guest. Rates start at USD 342 for two-nights, inclusive of breakfast. More details can be found here. Ma Cherie is available for stays until the end of February.

‘Pink’ Afternoon Tea and ‘Valen-Thai’ Dinner for Two in Chiang Mai

Cupid has aimed his bow at Meliá Chiang Mai, enticing couples with a ‘Pink Valentine’s Afternoon Tea’ for two and a ‘Valen-Thai’ romantic set dinner. The afternoon tea at Ruen Kaew Lounge from February 1-28 between 2-5pm is THB 999 net per set. Salmorajo shots with prawn skewers, golden fried potato-sausage balls with light aioli and brava sauce, mini burgers, mini strawberry sandwiches, classic Basque-style burnt cheesecake, churros with warm strawberry dipping sauce and Lychee ice popsicles are among savoury and sweet treats coupled with fine tea and freshly brewed coffee. On Valentine’s Day, 21^st floor Mai Restaurant & Bar will serve the ‘Valen-Thai’ dinner from 6-10pm for THB 3500 net per couple. Accompanied by a live violinist, the four-course dinner starts with ‘Love’s Samplers’ of tasting size portions of three different delicacies before dried squid in seasoned consommé with pork ravioli and plums. The main course is a choice between a secret recipe of angus beef steak on braised beef cheek curry with butterfly peas flower rice or baked banana leaf-wrapped king salmon with spicy tomato relish, fish sauce brined mushrooms and sticky spring roll, followed by red velvet tres leaches cake. Call +66 (0) 52 090 603 or email fb@meliachiangmai.com

Sipping Strawberry Champagne in Stunning Koh Samui

Lauded by many a travel writer as one of the leading hotels in Asia, Banyan Tree Samui creates the most spectacular and romantic setting for a dinner for two. On February 14 only, visitors are invited to savor a sumptuous “Be My Valentine” dinner at the resort’s beachfront restaurant Sands for 6,969 Baht per couple. The 7-course feast commences with an amuse bouche of poached quail eggs with Caspian Sea Pearls, followed by scallops and salmon, duck liver foie gras, a cassoulet of lobster, and, as a main course, Australian Black Angus beef tenderloin and Alaskan snowfish, before a delightful dessert of hot chocolate lava cake with ice cream. For those who prefer a sunny afternoon with a stunning sea view, a strawberry-themed Valentine’s Special “I Love You” High Tea will be served at the resort’s Lobby Lounge, perched high above the palm-tree fringed beach. Macarons, mille-feuilles, strawberry tarts, scones, mousse, cheesecake and even strawberry sushi will be on the menu, which also includes an alluring Strawberry Champagne Cocktail. The price for the High Tea Set on Valentine’s Day is just 1,699 Baht per couple. For more information or reservations, contact: samui@banyantree.com or tel:+66 077 915

Vegan Beachside Bliss in Danang

TIA Wellness Resort is helping guests enjoy the ocean this Valentine’s Day, without taking any gifts from the sea for their plates. The wellbeing-focused property, set along a stunning stretch of powdery white sand between Da Nang and Hoi An, is serving up a creative 100% plant-based feast for couples wishing to enjoy a romantic waterfront perch. Contemporary flavors and an innovative touch runs throughout the new multi-course, family-style dining menu with dishes like seared king oyster mushroom with vegan caviar and a potato-chive mousseline, and grilled spiced squash with truffle risotto. The course menu starts at VND 990,000 ++ per person. With wine, from the resort’s fully organic & biodynamic wine list, at an additional cost. For more information visit: https://tiawellnessresort.com/

Flowing with Love Beneath a Waterfall in Mai Chau

A stunning waterfall at the heart of Avana Retreat stands as the inspiration behind the boutique property that is now nestled into the verdant mountainous landscape of Mai Chau, Vietnam. Couples who wish to dine at the base of the falls can book in this Valentine’s Day and beyond for the ‘Sense of Romance’ dining experience. The multi-course meal includes decadent dishes like tuna belly with caviar, lobster cognac flambé and smoked duck breast, served beneath a canopy of trees and lit by the glow of dozens of lanterns. Often referred to as the resort’s heart, the intimate waterfall space has touched many a guest’s heart, especially when combined with an unforgettable dining experience while taking in this wonder of nature. For more information visit: https://avanaretreat.com/

Poolside dining and a private cinema screening on scenic Cam Ranh peninsula

An exquisite dinner at a picture-perfect poolside cabana, heart-shaped cakes, and a private cinema screening with bubbles are among Valentine’s Day offerings at 30-hectare beachfront resort Alma on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula. The resort’s Italian chef at fine dining Italian restaurant La Casa will craft a six-course romantic set dinner served at a private cabana beside one of the resort’s 12 swimming pools that cascade down to Long Beach, one of Vietnam’s most stunning stretches of sand. Romantic movies on request for private cinema screenings for two at 70-seat Alma Cinema are accompanied with sparkling wine and snacks. Other optional romantic touches include heart-shaped cakes at Alma Food Court’s French Bakery, a Valentine’s cocktail at American Lounge & Bar, suite or pavilion decorations, and flower bouquets at the resort’s mini-supermarket Alma Mart. Visit alma-resort.com

Cinema Under the Stars and a Romantic Dinner for Two in Cambodia’s Capital

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the iconic 90-year-old luxury hotel in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, will celebrate Valentine’s Day with a special screening of Ghost, the 1990 romantic fantasy movie starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore. The film will be played poolside, under the stars, at the hotel’s Cinema Paradiso, with a variety of food and drinks including sparkling wine served. Highlight dishes will include smoked salmon, roasted beef on crisp toast and strawberry eclair. The exclusive event is priced at $30 per person net. For something more traditional, the “Valentine’s Day Surf & Turf” at the hotel’s Le Phnom 1929 will feature a signature seafood tower, Taijma wagyu tomahawk, lamb rack and Saint Honoré cake, while a resident band performs classical love songs. The dinner is priced at $88++ per person for food only, with optional additions of $38++ for unlimited wine and cocktails (per person), and a bottle of Champagne from $98++. For reservations or inquiries, please contact 023 981 888 or email dining.leroyal@raffles.com.

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Restaurant Le Royal, the acclaimed Khmer fine dining venue at the 90-year-old Raffles Hotel Le Royal in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, has relaunched following an inspired refurbishment.

The restaurant’s new menu continues to spotlight authentic Royal Khmer cuisine alongside modern Khmer gastronomy whose offerings will be updated monthly. Restaurant Le Royal’s elegant and sophisticated interior features beautiful original artwork amid gleaming white walls and a bank of arched windows overlooking a lush courtyard.

For its reopening, the Royal Khmer menu at Restaurant Le Royal includes the following dishes, among others: Nhoam Svay (green mango salad with grilled prawns, Nuoc Mam sauce and peanuts); Phlea Trey Tonle (marinated bar fish cured with lime, lemongrass and a homemade spice mixture); Kd’arm Trung Kroeung Stuffed Crab (crab shell, coriander root, dried chili and fresh herbs); Takeo River Lobster Amok (served in young coconut with steamed rice); and for dessert Chek Chhoeng Skar (pan-fried caramelized banana with orange sauce) and Num Khmer Bai Mouk (a trio of Khmer sweets: sticky rice, taro cake and sweet potato).

The modern Khmer menu features Marinated Beef Carpaccio (cured with lime, chili and garlic, mixed fresh herbs, spiced foam); Kandal Province Pumpkin Soup (open foie gras ravioli, coconut cream); US Scallops, Amok Reduction (baby bok choy, river fish and curry cake); Seared Duck Breast(kale, garlic oyster sauce, organic rice); and Flambeed Banana (caramel banana mousse, crumble banana chips, sponge cake).

“Restaurant Le Royal offers an extraordinary dining experience with Royal Khmer recipes that have been handed down to Raffles Hotel Le Royal by decree from the royal palace. It’s an authentic, distinctive and truly memorable place,” said Executive Chef Martin Becquart.

Regarded as one of Cambodia’s finest restaurants, Restaurant Le Royal operates from Monday to Saturday (closed on Sundays) for dinner only from 6pm onward. A piano soloist serenades diners with traditional Cambodian classics from the golden era, and a regular sabrage ceremony is also featured.

Voted the No. 1 hotel in Cambodia by readers of the US-based travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler in its annual Readers’ Choice Awards in October, Raffles Hotel Le Royal originally opened in 1929. The hotel features 175 rooms and suites that underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019.

For reservations or inquiries about dining at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, please contact 023 981 888 or email dining.leroyal@raffles.com.

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Nicola van Heemsbergen from Belgium brings a wealth of culinary experience gleaned at some of the world’s best hotels and restaurants to his role as new executive chef at Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh.

Nicola van Heemsbergen has worked in Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotels all over the world

Van Heemsbergen embarked on his path as a professional chef almost 30 years ago when he completed a traineeship at t’Fornius, a Michelin-starred venue in the Belgian city of Antwerp that is rated as one of the country’s finest restaurants. And he has not looked back since those early years — setting out on a culinary odyssey as a chef that has taken him to glamorous locations around the world.

Notable assignments along the way include stints at Michelin-starred restaurants like Lasserre in Paris and the legendary La Pyramide in Vienne, France. Previous hotel experience, meanwhile, includes periods at properties like Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, Raffles Singapore, The Peninsula in Manila, and Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti in Tanzania. Most recently he worked at Marineau, one of the best seafood restaurants in Antwerp.

Now he is applying his culinary expertise to the new role overseeing the Food and Beverage offerings at Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh. The property has earned widespread acclaim since opening in January 2021. Most recently, it was ranked “top city hotel” in Cambodia at Asia’s Best Awards 2022 by leading travel publication Travel & Leisure Southeast Asia.

Van Heemsbergen will oversee the operations of all five food and beverage outlets, including the hotel’s two main dining venues, FiveFive Rooftop Restaurant & Bar and Market Café Restaurant & Lounge, while upholding Hyatt’s commitment to sourcing the most sustainable and seasonal products from Cambodia by working with local farmers, growers and distributors.

“I’m looking forward to showcasing my passion for cooking with fresh, natural and locally produced ingredients to create inspirational dining experiences for our guests,” said Nicola van Heemsbergen. “Phnom Penh‘s Food and Beverage scene is quickly maturing and through the hotel, my goal is to put the city’s culinary offerings on the map.”

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Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh is nurturing the next generation of Khmer hospitality personnel via a new collaboration with Cambodia’s National Institute of Entrepreneurship and Innovation (NIEI).

The property, the newest international branded luxury hotel in Cambodia’s capital, today signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the NIEI. Through the agreement, which will span the next two years, the hotel will provide resources, workshops, training, technical and curriculum consultation to NIEI in order to develop candidates. It will also offer internships to NIEI students to help build their skills in key areas of hospitality.

“One of Cambodia’s most potent attributes is the natural hospitality of its people,” said Juan Mercadante, the general manager of Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh. “By refining skills through internships at our hotel, we can really maximize this human capital and offer these students invaluable experience and opportunities to grow their careers.”

The new arrangement between Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh and the NIEI is in line with the Hyatt RiseHY initiative. RiseHY is a new global program designed to pair the hospitality industry’s career opportunities with young people who need them. As part of the initiative, Hyatt hotels around the world will commit to hiring 10,000 Opportunity Youth – people ages 16 to 24 who are neither in school nor working – by 2025.

According to the International Labour Organization, more than 40 percent of the world’s young people are either unemployed or living in poverty.

“We understand the challenges young people face, and Hyatt hotels are uniquely positioned to be part of the solution. Hospitality is one of the few industries where entry-level opportunities often lead to fulfilling, life-long careers that can change the trajectory of someone’s life,” said Malaika Myers, chief human resources officer, Hyatt. “With the launch of RiseHY, Hyatt hotels will harness the power of technology in ways our industry has never done before, to scale career opportunities, bringing awareness to hospitality careers and setting up candidates for success from the start as it expands training programs as a path for employment.”

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