Le Safran La Suite

Arrived here a day late, thanks to Emirates rescheduling my flights. And was then offered a room on the ground floor despite having requested (and had acknowledged) a higher floor. But this was the last problem I encountered here. I had four nights in room 15 on the top floor. It has a small balcony but looks out onto an adjacent roof...still, I hadn't come to sit in my room. The furniture is a little old-fashioned (or characterful). Storage is on open shelves. The in-room fridge is on the noisy side if you are a light sleeper. Bathroom toiletries are nicely chosen, especially the handmade green tea soap. The patron, Jean-Luc welcomes every guest and is clearly responsible for some of the interesting and eclectic design in this villa. There was a beautiful and fragrant display of flowers at the foot of the stairs (no lift) during my stay, I guess repeated. Lots of thoughtful design touches and impressive light fittings on the staircase. Perhaps because of the name, it is popular with the French as all other guests were of that nationality. Breakfast is nicely presented with excellent homemade jams ($7 if not included in your booking). Just remember to sign after eating! The swimming pool - 8 strokes across - was a welcome asset after a sticky day in the city, and was nicely illuminated in the evening, with candles lit on the tables. Pool towels available on a rack near the showers. Had it to myself (apart from the geckos) every evening as it went dark. Outside, you are next to Villa Langka, but street 282 was surprisingly busy with traffic. It's easy to orientate as you are just south of the Independence Monument. There are plenty of places to eat and drink within 100m. I mainly got around on Grab bikes, with the trip from the airport to Le Safran costing 18,000riel. It was near enough to walk to S21 prison, with a bike to the Killing Fields the same cost. In between, I enjoyed a light lunch at Tokyo, cafe and crafts shop on the corner of Streets 113 and 330. A freshly made sandwich, small plate of fruit and an iced coffee cost $3.80 from this evidently family-run concern. I plan to review a couple of restaurants separately, but I'll mention the brewery at HH hotela little west on Street 282. H hotel a little further to the west on Street 282Of recent construction, the hotel's brewing coppers visible from the street caught my eye. Happy hour was announced as 1700 - 2100 at the rooftop bar with beers two for one. I spoke with the enthusiastic brewer who had a Pilsner and a stronger Wheat beer on offer. I couldn't find anything on the web suggesting how expensive it might be; but at $4.40 for a 600ml glass, it was a good drink in very pleasant surroundings with views across the city from two seating areas. My only grumble was it was difficult to attract attention to get the second (free) beer! There was some light food available, but no pressure to eat.