IHG returns luxury InterContinental brand to Cambodia
InterContinental Sihanoukville will underscore the Southeast Asian nation's growing appeal as a luxury travel destination when it opens in 2028. The 300-room hotel will feature dining venues, bespoke bars, a luxury spa, and coastal views catering to both leisure and business guests.
The eye-catching property will form part of the Peninsula Bay Integrated Resort development comprising hotels, retail outlets, and entertainment options. Spanning approximately 160,000 square metres, it will feature an architectural style that blends modern design with traditional culture, inspired by the dragon to symbolise good luck and strength.
InterContinental Sihanoukville will be situated just 30 minutes from Sihanoukville International Airport and benefit from an outstanding location within easy reach of Otres Beach, Ream National Park and Wat Leu Pagoda temple, and offering a wide variety of activities for all types of travellers.
Bryan Chan, Vice President, Development, South East Asia & Korea, IHG said, 'At IHG, we're proud to be returning the world's first and largest luxury brand, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, to Cambodia – a move in keeping with our great pioneering tradition in the luxury space and our grand history in the country.
'As we venture further into the coast, we could not think of a better partner than Peninsula Bay Investment, with whom we're collaborating to create a bespoke integrated offering that matches its stunning coastal location, paving the way for the InterContinental brand to once again lead the way in Luxury & Lifestyle in Cambodia.
'Our IHG team has a strong track record of working with owners to bring our world-renowned brands to life by creating bespoke properties that match their stunning locations – and InterContinental Sihanoukville is a wonderful example of this. The Peninsula Bay development joins the ranks of other prestigious integrated resort developments that IHG has joined forces with in Southeast Asia, including the Grand Ho Tram in Vietnam, Newport World Resorts in the Philippines as well as upcoming projects in HANN resorts.'
Eddie Chua, General Manager of Peninsula Bay said, 'Partnering with IHG and LBG allows us to deliver unmatched experiences in hospitality and retail. This development is a testament to our vision of blending luxury, innovation, and Cambodia's natural beauty to create a destination like no other.'
Cambodia continues to grow as a tourism destination, powered by its rich culture and growing array of attractions, which encourage visitors to rest, relax and unwind. Its government is supporting tourism through a comprehensive roadmap, which has led to a 23% increase in international visitors in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 1.4%.
InterContinental Hotels & Resorts is a world-renowned, award-winning brand with more than 220 hotels around the world. A pioneer in luxury travel, it has provided outstanding experiences to travellers for more than 75 years and helped build locations into key visitor destinations for decades. InterContinental Sihanoukville will join this prestigious group of hotels, each of which celebrates bold exploration, travel and cultural discovery.
IHG continues to grow in Indochina with 22 open hotels and a further 26 properties in the pipeline as the region is set to double its current size in the future. InterContinental Sihanoukville will add to a growing collection of Luxury and Lifestyle hotels in Cambodia as it joins Six Senses Krabey Island and the upcoming Vignette Collection Phnom Penh Odom which is set to open in 2027.
Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Harpers Bazaar Arabia
2 days ago
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
Discover Dar Al Masyaf's Malakiya Villas: The Haute Couture Staycation Right Here In Dubai
Fit for royalty, the Malakiya Villas invite guests into an exclusive realm that feels impossible to leave… There is an overwhelming feeling when wandering around Jumeirah Madinat Resort that you have stepped into an UHNW traveller's very own fantasy land. Situated on 2km of private, pristine shores, Madinat Jumeirah is designed to resemble a traditional Arabian town and comprises no fewer than four ultra-luxe hotels, myriad world-class restaurants, and even its very own souk – Souk Madinat. Specialising in resorts-with-a-resort, its hotel offerings include the bold and modern Jumeirah Al Naseem, the palatial Jumeirah Al Qasr, the waterside retreat Jumeirah Mina Al Salam and eternally elegant Dar Al Masyaf – each a miniature universe with its own distinct identity, where the common denominator is haute hospitality. Perfectly contained and expertly manicured, guests can spend days meandering Dar Al Masyaf alone – whether exploring its lush pathways, hopping onto abras to navigate its Venetian-esque waterways, listening to the early morning call of its resident peacocks or watching the sun set on its white sands, which happen to boast the best view of the Burj al Arab in all of Dubai. It is, without doubt, Dubai's inimitable magic kingdom, and home to seven royal Malakiya Villas – the jewels in the crown that speak to the uppermost echelon of seasoned travellers and luxury-living connoisseurs. These ultra-plush villas have been recently refurbished, with one concept front of mind throughout the year-long redesign: haute couture. Crafted with the same level of poetic detail as couturiers conceive their collections, stitch by stitch and sequin by sequin, so have the Malakiya Villas been meticulously considered; the creative vision of Dubai-based designer Sahar Alyaseer. The chicest haute couture is never showy, and the same rings true with Sahar's aesthetic – each villa is understatedly grand, without shouting its opulence from the rooftops. Generous windows allow the city's signature sunshine to spill into the downstairs reception rooms, where the colour palette riffs on nuance to the nth degree – tones of twine, nacre, seashell and taupe blend effortlessly to create warm spaces that feel equal parts homely and heavenly. The Malakiya mantra? Seclusion, discretion, and tailor-made service. The Villas' designs do, however, also speak to their provenance – Sahar conceived each space to reference the resort's Arabesque design, but the design codes remain simultaneously relaxed and refined, immediately making each guest feel embraced by the Malakiya way of living. Helping you settle in? A team of dedicated butlers to curate and personalise your stay from scratch. Yearning for a platter of delicious local delicacies for an afternoon snack? A tray of dates, walnuts, shelled pistachios, and candied apricots will appear in a jiffy. Missing traditionally British menus? A complete afternoon tea service can materialise upon your dining table in the time it takes you to wander from the beach and shake off your sandals at the door. A private yoga session in your garden space? No problem. Perhaps you have a special moment to celebrate… simply request for the living room to be filled with a sea of bobbing balloons, each tethered to a polaroid picture of a special memory. If Cinderella were to stay anywhere, she would be most impressed by the slight of hand of the butler team – almost imperceptibly, they can make miniature dreams come true. Featuring either two or three bedrooms, ranging from range from 275sqm up to 640sqm, each outpost also comes complete with a private plunge pool, private terrace, cabana, and its own kitchen. While the three bedroom villas are more than spacious for a full family escape, the Royal Malakiya Villa – spanning 1,014sqm – is fit for a royal court, set upon three levels and boasting its own rooftop terrace. The villas' marble-clad bathrooms feature Jacuzzi baths worthy of a queen, while further living spaces including elegant dining rooms and studies that allow for plenty of quiet, blissed-out contemplation. If you are bringing the whole family, then there are many pursuits to entertain young and old beyond your intimate villa space. Pierchic, French Riviera, Al Nafoorah, Shimmers, Pai Thai, and renowned Rockfish are just a few of Jumeirah Madinat's most beloved restaurants, while children can attend its imaginative kids clubs, and exercise addicts can steal away to the J Club Fitness Centre. Dar Al Masyaf's award-winning Talisa Spa and exclusive adult-only infinity pool that reaches out across the ocean are two of its most tranquil sanctuaries, and the resort also offers direct private access to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, for a spot of local shopping. Complimentary airport pick up and drop off will make your visit all the easier, but if you can't quite face ever leaving? You don't have to. The Malakiya Villas are also available for long-term rental – perfect for extended business trips, or those with incurable wanderlust, who simply need a wondrous place to pause.
The National
2 days ago
- The National
From wall climbing to a serene wellness centre, why this Phuket resort caters to every kind of traveller
Spread over 24 hectares, surrounded by the Sirirat National Park and overlooking the Andaman Sea, Anantara Layan Phuket Resort offers a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the Thai island 's main tourist town. With the promise of diverse dining options, a wellness centre and varied activities, The National checks into the property to find out whether it truly offers an all-round rejuvenating getaway. The welcome A loud gong announces my arrival to staff at the front desk, who quickly take my luggage and passport. I am welcomed with a fragrant floral wristband, cold towel, refreshing butterfly pea and lemon tea, and a goji berry and nut snack. After about 10 minutes, I am escorted to my room on a buggy and my luggage follows swiftly. The room The resort has 76 rooms across 13 categories. I stay in a spacious deluxe pool villa. The decor blends traditional Thai architecture with modern Asian influences; white walls are offset by dark wooden furniture and accents. Hotel room essentials are all available – there is a mini bar, which contains chargeable snacks and drinks, as well as complimentary teas and coffees. A safe, robes and slippers, as well as an umbrella (an essential for tropical Phuket) are inside the wardrobe, while there is also a wicker bag that guests can use for the beach or pool. There is a large desk in the room, with ample charging points to power up all devices. Complimentary toiletries are by The Essence of Anantara Spa brand and are available in refillable containers. I particularly like the fragrant lavender, ylang-ylang and lemongrass bath salts in little jars next to the stand-alone bathtub on the deck. Outside my room I have a private pool, which is cleaned every day during my stay, and a deck where I can bask in the sunshine in solitude. Spa and wellness Layan Life Wellness Centre is a minimalist building in a quiet corner of the hotel grounds, surrounded by lush foliage and a pond. The centre offers treatments that encompass beauty and wellness. The property is also home to a spa, which offers treatments that use freshly grown herbs from the garden next to it. Treatments at the spa start from 4,700 baht ($145), but the signature massage, at 5,885 baht, I am told, is one of the most popular. There is also a salon on site. Hotel facilities There are three pools at the hotel and a stretch of private beach. Guests can partake in a number of activities, including tennis, wall climbing, pottery and one of the longest ziplines in Phuket. Located on the cliffside of the active zone, the 400-metre long zipline is suspended 15 metres above ground and offers panoramic views of Layan beach. There are also water activities on offer, including kayaking and paddle boarding. Family-friendly factor Little ones can play with clay and dabble in other arts and crafts in the children's club. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as nature discovery trails and an in-house farm. For those who would rather do something more sporty, the active zone has a children's area, which has a separate pool and slides for little ones. The hotel also caters to teenagers, with archery, foosball, air hockey, snooker and Muay Thai boxing on offer. The food Guests are spoilt for choice at this hotel when it comes to food. Breeze restaurant, which serves Italian food, has a separate multi-cuisine wellness menu with dishes that are wholesome and nutritious. My personal favourites are the delicious and spicy som tam salad (700 baht) and lamb fillet koftas (1,200 baht), as well as the sumac-saffron marinated chicken (900 baht). The red fruit cheesecake (600 baht) is a delicious guilt-free dessert option. The floor above Breeze, where breakfast is served, turns into a Zuma restaurant in the evening; I spot several well-heeled guests dining late into the night at the popular international Japanese venue. My best meals are at the Thai restaurant, Dara, where Khun Jenny and Khun Bee offer recommendations for their top dishes and drinks. The offerings here are elevated, well-balanced and taste extremely fresh thanks to the restaurant's approach of cooking with vegetables grown at the hotel's farm. My favourite dishes include peek gai yang (chicken wings with sea salt, lime and spices; 530 baht), pad Thai noodles (980 baht) and khao man koeng kai (black sticky rice, coconut butter, yellow curry and chicken roulade; 850 baht). The mango sticky rice (450 baht) is among the best I've had. The hotel is also home to Age, an industrial-chic restaurant that is known for its meat dishes. It has a room of dry-aged meats, allowing diners to choose their cuts. Age also offers a selection of oysters and caviar, alongside fresh seafood dishes. I am not a major meat eater but, thankfully, they have chicken options on the menu and I quite enjoy digging into my flat iron baby chicken (980 baht) with a side of Dauphinoise potatoes (200 baht). The breakfast scene The breakfast spread is impressive. As well as staple buffet options – eggs, baked goods, yoghurts etc – the highlight is the hotel's range of multi-cuisine offerings. I notice new dishes in the halal section each day, and there are also Indian options and several Asian dishes on offer. I find the fruit station particularly impressive, with its array of freshly cut Thai fruits, such as papaya, mango, watermelon and dragon fruit. The station also allows guests to create their own acai bowls. I am not the only fan, either; the hotel's rescue macaw pops by for breakfast every morning, demanding his fair share of the fruits. The wellness corner is another highlight, with a variety of fruit-and-nut-based snacks on offer. Insider tip The hotel's Thai restaurant, Dara, offers stargazing experiences. When the weather permits, guests can book a spot to see the night sky from the observatory on the rooftop. The telescope here is the largest in Phuket. The service In a word: flawless. From the staff at the wellness centre and concierge, to the room cleaners and the servers at the restaurant, I am always greeted with a smile and a polite 'sawadee kha', and every request is attended to quickly. Accessibility and sustainability Most of the resort is set on ground level, but there are lifts wherever necessary, such as the building that houses Breeze and the rooftop bar. However, I did not see any ramps. The hotel has a focus on sustainability, with refillable toiletries and reusable water bottles. The bottom line The deluxe pool villa costs from Dh2,018 ($549) a night. Check-in is from 3pm, check-out is at noon.
Tourism Breaking News
3 days ago
- Tourism Breaking News
IHG Hotels & Resorts signs Crowne Plaza Madinah Al Haramain, expanding Premium Portfolio in Saudi Arabia's Holy City
Post Views: 27 IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of Crowne Plaza Madinah Al Haramain, a 383-key hotel in partnership with Arbah Tayba Real Estate Company. Slated to open in 2026, the hotel will be managed by IHG and will further strengthen the company's premium portfolio in one of Saudi Arabia's most significant religious and cultural destinations. Located opposite the new Haramain high-speed railway station in Madinah, the hotel will offer direct access to the station via an underground tunnel, providing guests with effortless connectivity to major cities including Jeddah and Makkah. Crowne Plaza Madinah Al Haramain is part of a larger mixed-use development and in proximity to other upcoming key projects such as Knowledge Economic City and Rua Al Madinah, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking convenience, comfort, and modern amenities just outside the bustling city centre. Upon completion, the hotel will feature 383 well-appointed rooms and suites, along with two signature food and beverage outlets. Its design and services will reflect Crowne Plaza's premium identity, prioritising seamless integration between work and leisure for today's modern traveller. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East and Africa, commented: 'As the Kingdom continues to enhance its tourism and hospitality offering in line with Vision 2030, we remain committed to bringing world-class experiences and trusted brands to Saudi guests and global travellers. This partnership with Arbah Tayba Real Estate Company to introduce Crowne Plaza Madinah Al Haramain is the latest milestone in our growing Saudi portfolio and further underlines our commitment to the Kingdom.' He added: 'Our Crowne Plaza brand crafts experiences that suit every journey, inspiring connection, collaboration, and well-being of our guests. It perfectly suits the broad spectrum of travellers visiting the Holy City, from religious pilgrims to the growing number of business visitors. We look forward to working with our partners to further advance the hospitality sector in Madinah.' Mr. Abdulaziz Al Qafary, CEO of Arbah Tayba Real Estate Company said, 'We are proud to collaborate with IHG Hotels & Resorts on a project that reflects our shared commitment to shaping the future of Madinah's hospitality and infrastructure landscape. Strategically located with direct access to key transport links, Crowne Plaza Madinah Al Haramain is set to meet the evolving needs of today's travellers – offering convenience, seamless connectivity, and a trusted international hospitality experience. This partnership underscores our focus on delivering high-quality developments that enhance access, elevate the guest journey, and support the city's long-term growth.' Madinah is undergoing rapid development, driven by government-led initiatives and giga projects to meet Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals. As a key spiritual and tourism hub, the city is poised for significant growth, with enhanced infrastructure, transportation, and hospitality services key pillars in its evolution. Crowne Plaza has long been a pioneer in blending business and leisure travel. The brand's thoughtfully designed guest rooms, flexible meeting and event spaces, and integrated social areas enable guests to connect, work, or unwind effortlessly. With a bold new brand identity, Crowne Plaza continues to lead the premium hotel segment across urban centres and gateway cities around the world. IHG currently operates 45 hotels across six brands in Saudi Arabia, including: InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites, and voco, with 47 hotels in the development pipeline set to open within the next three to five years.
