Okay Guesthouse- Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Address: 5 Ph 258, Phnom Penh

Website: none

We saw a poster of Okay Guesthouse from the backseat of a tuk tuk driver and decided to check it out. I'd also heard about it from my research and vaguely recollected that it received a good review. It's excellently located near the Independence Monument and walking distance from the Royal Palace and its attractions, as well as the Tonle Sap River but not too close to it as to be met with the swarms of mosquitoes that reportedly come from it during dawn and dusk. Down this quiet street, there are also a few old internet cafes and restaurants to be found and is almost hidden behind a big tree at the entrance of the guesthouse.

After battling our way through the semi-permanent residence of tuk tuk drivers metres away, we checked into the hot shower fan room (USD$8 per night). There's many, many rooms in this guesthouse and ours was down a quiet corridor with the window facing the hallway outside which with no iron bars across it, didn't make it a very secure arrangement. Closing the window meant that the room got hot and stuffy quite quickly with the fan on, due to the lack of air circulation. The room was relatively small, with a small cable tv and table. The bed looked ok for cleanliness, but the ensuite bathroom was great- looking relatively new, clean and had the most wicked shower head- think full volume for once! Possibly the best shower we've had so far on the trip.

The guesthouse is a popular destination for many backpackers, with the place buzzing with people throughout the day. They also offer comprehensive tour and booking services too which can be quite convenient, and a restaurant too which served food until late. We had toast and omlette, as well as a banana pancake which was quite nicely made, after a less than satisfactory dinner.

We only stayed here for one night as we were desirous of a place with internet services, and had found a place nearby.

Overall, a good place for budget travellers to stay, having a typical busy backpacker atmosphere with plenty of people to meet. The rooms are smallish and impersonal, but the amazing shower almost makes up for it! Location is great for first time travellers to Phnom Penh, with many tourist attractions a walk away, as well as restaurants and a good burger place called Louisiana Fried Chicken on the corner. Would be much improved if it provided internet though.

Rating: 6.5/10