Kratie hotels and guesthouses guide
Santepheap Hotel is consistently popular
In recent years Kratie has developed itself somewhat to meet the ever growing demand of travellers, although it remains a backpacker and budget-travel orientated town. From dusty dirt roads and limited, decrepit accommodation just a few short years ago, the city now boasts several reasonably priced hotels and guesthouses.
Most are centred on the riverfront area, near the ferry landing and Market, with rates range from US$5 for a basic room, up to US$15 – US$20 with cable TV and air-conditioning.
Recommended Kratie hotels and guesthouses
Santepheap Hotel: The most popular hotel in town, especially with tour groups, Santepheap offers fan and air conditioned rooms of varying shapes and sizes, some with cable TV. Situated on the river road, opposite the port and next to two major bus company stops, the hotel is an excellent source of travel information and onward bookings. Rue Sumamarit, tel: + (855) (0)72 971 537.
Balcony Guesthouse: This new place, opened in 2009, has won rave reviews for its quality decor and large, airy rooms, WiFi and free movies. The highlight is the bar and restaurant on the balcony overlooking the Mekong which offers superb sunset views. Riverfront Road, tel: + (855) (0)16 604 036.
Heng Heng Hotel: Long running guesthouse which has been renovated in recent years, the opening of its sister establishment Heng Heng 2 means that there are a number of good quality river view rooms in addition to a decent restaurant. Rue Sumamarit, tel: + (855) 072 971 405.
Oudom Sambath Hotel: One of the better hotels in Kratie, the sumptuous timber decor in the large, comfortable rooms, some with air conditioning and Mekong views, has seen it consistently acclaimed – perhaps due in part to the popularity of the owner, a local general, who has spared little expense on the fit-out. The bustling restaurant does a great breakfast and is popular with travellers and locals alike. Rue Sumamarit, tel: + (855) (0)72 971 502.
Star Guesthouse: Winning high praise from backpackers, the al fresco dining area and cheap but average rooms draw the budget crowds in high season. The Khmer staff, and English manager Brian, do a good job at making you feel at home and also organise day trips and offer handy local travel tips. West side of the market, tel: + (855) (0)72 753 401.
Wat Roka Kandal Bungalows: Kratie’s only bungalow accommodation and a lovely location to the south of the town centre. The modern, wooden building is directly on the banks of the Mekong sit alongside the ancient temple of the same name. With hot water, air conditioning and large balconies, this is the best option for a romantic getaway. There is only one bungalow open so bookings are essential. two kilometres south of Kratie on Rue Sumamarit, tel: + (855) (0)72 971 729.
You Hong Guesthouse: A transit-orientated establishment in the most bustling area of the town, on the north side of the market, You Hong fills up with overnighters and budget travellers taking advantage of the cheapest rooms in Kratie or looking to make an early escape from Kratie. Many arriving buses and taxis stop here, while the new You Hong, closer to the river, is a slightly more upmarket version. Northern side of market, tel: + (855) (0)12 957 003/You Hong 2, Street 10, tel: + (855) (0)17 808 001.
Le Relais de Chhlong: A beautifully restored majestic French villa in the small hamlet of Chhlong, 30kms south of Kratie on the main road. A rare find boasting just six rooms, all elegantly decorated with antiques and fine silks, in addition to a swimming pool and find-dining restaurant, this is a unique colonial experience not found anywhere else in Eastern Cambodia, tel: + (855) (0)12 501 742.
