FCC Phnom Penh Boutique Hotel

would not leaving anything of value in room, even in the safe box in the room.

The FCC is a popular almost iconic destination for tourists to Phnom Penh perhaps aided by a plethora of guidebook recommendations even though it's faux historical gritty persona is certainly by more recent design. The cracked and patched terazzo walls, the uneven undulating hardwood floors, the claustrophobic hallways with dark wooden paneling, the lonely four legged reception desk sitting exposed at the top of the stairwell all overlay a sophisticated contemporary room design, although slightly ratty now with a genuine tropical patina. Hotel staff was pleasant but not especially welcoming or helpful which is understandable since there are only eight rooms which I imagine couldn't support more experienced personnel. Language was a slight problem. Overall my seven day stay was a delight with the facilities providing an essential retreat from the dry season extraordinary heat. The room was quite large and comfortable, a/c sufficient, oversized bathroom tub and lovely terrace with (not quite strong enough) ceiling fan directly overlooking the junction of the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers. Sisowat Quay, one of the most active roads in the city which runs along the river walkway lies just a couple of meters below which although unavoidably noisy provides an endless panoramic entertainment.

I arrived early from the overnight bus from Siem Reap and my room was ready by 6am. You can request the free breakfast delivered to your room. Two free bottles of water in the room each day, which you will need.

Great location facing the river and a couple of blocks away from the Royal Palace. Reception is like that of a hostel: no street presence or lobby area, just up a flight of steps from the busy street and check in at a shabby desk. But the room was surprisingly large, and comfortable enough for a short stay. The upstairs bar/cafe is lively in the evening and pleasant for breakfast.

The rooms are clean, and well appointed, albeit a tad small. The real attraction here is its historical significance if you will and the terrace. It's got a GREAT terrace on the 2nd and 3rd floor which offers a fantastic view of the river. Breakfast is fantastic. But otherwise the food here is not worth the money. Drinks are relatively expensive but a 5 to 7 happy hour makes it affordable and well worth it. We loved staying here but truthfully it was quite expensive for the value. You could book a more affordable room and simply visit the bar and enjoy it just as much.

But staff are not very helpful in Cambodia standard.

I love these old hotels in Southeast Asia. I am all about the history and I am not that picky about standards. The Continental Hotel in Saigon was fun. The Majestic Hotel in Saigon was majestic. All I want from these places is 3 Star quality and a cool experience. Also I had a connection to the FCC because I was here in 1997. But sadly, the FCC was a dump. Had I seen the place in advance of booking, I would not have stayed. I had the Director's Apartment and was actually shocked at the standard: shower/bath had visible scum/mold on tiles; no hot water; toilet seat broken and ill-fitted to basin; tiles broken on floor; dust/dirt everywhere and the place has never seen a vacuum cleaner; walls filthy; internet abysmal (apparently the "Director" is not internet-savvy); the place was simply un-secure! (rear window did not lock! I had to argue with the staff who insisted no Cambodian would think to climb up to the easily-accessed second story and slide the unlock-able window open and enter; the room safe did not work correctly and they were unable to replace it); service was grudging and bluntly unprofessional, even gangster-like; I refused to let cleaning staff in when I was not there. From reviews I read of other rooms, they are nicer, but the Director's Apartment was horrible. Bottom line: If you want the ambiance and history of the FCC, make a trip to the bar and forget the hotel.

Great rooms, great location, great food, great drinks, great decor, great atmosphere

great location, clean, air condition and upstairs bar fantastic.

Very nice hotel, very convenient location