The seven-storey Independence Hotel sits on a high cliff overlooking the Gulf of Thailand and a strip of private beach just outside Sihanoukville, in southern Cambodia. The hotel was, like the city itself, built in the late 1950s under the patronage of King Sihanouk in celebration of Cambodia's independence from colonial rule. It suffered during the Khmer Rouge years (it served as a prison) but in the 90s it was totally refurbished and upgraded to what today stands as one of the best hotels in Sihanoukville. Only the more modern Sokha Resort offers a comparable standard of accommodation.
In places the Independence shows its age. As an old, 1960s tower block, it’s admittedly a bit of a monolith, but for the most part the designers have done a marvellous job of upgrading the hotel to modern 4/5-star standards. Recent additions to the hotel include a new pool and a spa overlooking the beach. As the hotel is located on a steep hill, a sleek glass-panel outdoor elevator has been added to make access to the private beach easier. There’s also now a lovely beachside restaurant.
The Independence Hotel is easy to recommend. Sokha Resort offers slightly better facilities and a slicker presentation, but the Independence has a lot more character.
Accommodation
The Independence Hotel has 113 rooms spread across several categories, ranging from the standard deluxe rooms to the lavish Jacqueline Kennedy suite. The deluxe rooms are bright and modern, with contemporary furniture and colourful textiles. Amenities in all rooms include air-con units, cable TV, in-room safe, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making facilities and minibar.
A recent addition to the Independence Hotel is the private pool villa, which features two bedrooms, a steam room, dining room and lounge, and a private swimming pool.
Dining
The Sunset Terrace is ideally located overlooking the ocean and serves fresh and tasty seafood. The Coral Restaurant serves a tantalising buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner with beautifully presented dishes.
The options for eating out in Sihanoukville are fairly limited, so you’ll likely find that you take most of your meals at the Independence Hotel. Thankfully, the food is good!
Facilities
- Restaurants and bar
- Swimming pool
- Tennis courts
- Children’s playground
- Spa
- Gym
- Gift shop
Child Policy
Children are welcome and stay free of charge if under 12 and sharing with a parent. The Independence Hotel offers some facilities for children, including a small play area. Babysitting services are available on request.
