Emphasis on quality service

The Royal Phnom Penh Cambodia Hotel held its soft opening on Feb.14. Located on what

was formerly the site of a military training center on Lenin Boulevard past the Russian

Embassy in Phnom Penh, the hotel currently has 40 deluxe rooms with twin beds, private

baths, satellite television, and a lobby lounge serving Asian and European food.

Front Office Manager Roger Mitchell, commenting on the hotel's atmosphere said, "At

this stage in our development we classify ourselves as a boutique-style hotel which

emphasizes service."

The hotel is a project by a group of Thai investors. While precise figures on the

size of the initial investment were not available, Mitchell said, "It is substantial."

He added, "We're not here for the fast buck, we're here to help develop the

economy and to help Cambodia grow."

In early April the Royal Phnom Penh expects to open a bakery, coffee shop, restaurant

and "sophisticated night club." Long-term development plans include the

construction of another 120 rooms, Japanese and Chinese restaurants, gift shop, hair

salon, snooker club, and possibly an office complex.

The hotel has employed 50 Cambodians and has initiated an intensive on-the-job training

program for all staff as a means of maintaining their emphasis on "quality service."