Royal Empire Hotel

I stayed here back in 2015 and, from what I remember, everything was fine. The room was clean, the staff were friendly, and breakfast had typical Asian dishes.

I left feeling ripped off, and I would never recommend this hotel. The manager was rude and unprofessional, the WiFi barely worked, and staff spoke very little English. They advertise facilities that aren’t available: the spa had been closed for months, and the only massages were in-room for $25-30, which seems expensive for Siem Reap. We also never got the packed breakfast we’d requested for an early Angkor Wat departure, something hotels around town normally provide. On arrival, I had to pay upfront for five nights and was overcharged. The quote included USD 45 for transport from the hotel to the airport, but after paying I noticed it wasn’t on the invoice. I was busy at a conference on days two and three, the main reason for my trip. After it ended on day four, I wanted to use the advertised sauna, jacuzzi, and massage service, then extend my stay by two nights so I could see the temples by day and relax at the spa afterward. I’d already paid for the whole stay. When I asked for the manager, he agreed to give me a massage for free because of the inconvenience and said he’d tell the staff. The next morning, two colleagues and I were supposed to leave at 4:45 AM to see the sunrise. I’d asked reception the night before to have three packed breakfasts ready by then. At 4:45 they weren’t there, and they were still missing at 4:55, when our guide said we had to go. On my last day, I’d asked reception to book the promised massage. At 8:30 AM, while I was working in my room, reception called to say the manager denied offering it. He was out when I asked to speak with him. At 9, just before leaving for the museum, I asked again. He eventually appeared with his arms crossed and looked annoyed. “No, no, no, I never said that.” He also told me, “I don’t care if you write a bad review.” I love Cambodia and its people, but stay somewhere else.

The manager was excellent, and Banh was the best doorman. Great facilities, nice staff, and a central location.

Breakfast could use some improvement, especially with so many international guests. The rooms were clean and spacious, and the hotel is close to the night market and Pub Street. Our flight wasn’t until late evening, so we left our luggage in the lobby and spent the day sightseeing and shopping. When we returned, the staff kindly let us use a room to shower and freshen up before the long flight. Thanks for that thoughtful gesture.