Finding a place to stay in Phnom Penh is honestly a bit of a gamble. You’ve got the high-end glitz of the Rosewood and the chaotic, neon-drenched backpacker strips near the river. Then there is Blue Lime Phnom Penh, a spot that has managed to stay relevant for nearly two decades by basically doing its own thing.
It’s tucked away. Really tucked away. You have to navigate a narrow alleyway off Street 19—just behind the National Museum—to even find the entrance. Most people walk right past it. But that's the point.
The Concrete and Silk Vibe
The first thing you notice when you walk into Blue Lime is the aesthetic. It’s not your typical Cambodian "ornate wood and gold" setup. Instead, it’s a minimalist, almost brutalist mix of polished concrete and bright silk.
It feels cool. Literally. The grey concrete keeps the heat down, which is a lifesaver when the humidity in Phnom Penh hits 90%.
The rooms are a trip. They aren't trying to be "luxe" in the traditional sense. You get these massive four-poster beds with muslin drapes and splashes of lime green (obviously) and turquoise. It’s airy. It’s simple.
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Some guests find it a bit too stark. If you’re looking for plush carpets and gold-leaf mirrors, you’re in the wrong place. But if you want a room that feels like a modern art gallery in the middle of a jungle, this is it.
Why Everyone Obsesses Over the Pools
Let’s talk about the private pools. This is the biggest draw for Blue Lime Phnom Penh.
Out of the 23 rooms, four of them have their own private plunge pools. These aren't just tiny bathtubs; they are actual, private areas where you can cool off without having to see another human being. It’s a massive flex for a 3-star hotel.
If you don't snag one of those four rooms, the main saltwater pool is still great. It’s the centerpiece of the property. Huge trees hang over the water, and there are these deep, cushioned cabanas that are perfect for a midday nap.
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Expert Tip: The hotel has a strict "no kids under 16" policy. This is why the pool area actually stays quiet. No splashing, no screaming. Just the sound of someone shaking a cocktail at the bar and maybe a gecko chirping in the garden.
Location: The "Secret" Backyard of the Royals
The location is basically unbeatable if you like walking. You are literally behind the Royal Palace and the National Museum.
- The National Museum: It's a 4-minute walk. You can see the terracotta roof from some of the upper floors.
- The Riverside: A 10-minute stroll gets you to Sisowath Quay for sunset views.
- Kandal Market: About 450 meters away. It’s messy, loud, and smells like fermented fish—it’s brilliant.
Being on a side street (19z) means you escape the constant drone of tuk-tuk horns. It's one of the few places in the city center where you can actually hear yourself think.
What Nobody Tells You (The Reality Check)
Look, it's not all sunshine and lime-scented towels. Blue Lime Phnom Penh was built in 2007/2008. It’s an old-timer in the boutique scene.
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Some parts are showing their age. You might see a bit of wear on the concrete or a shower that takes a minute to find the right temperature. The Wi-Fi can be a bit temperamental, especially if everyone is trying to upload their pool selfies at the same time.
Also, there are no elevators. If you’re on the top floor, you’re taking the stairs. It’s only four floors, but in the Cambodian heat, it feels like climbing a mountain if you've just had a big lunch.
The breakfast is solid, though. They serve Eric Kayser bread and pastries—which is a big deal in Phnom Penh—along with fresh juices and made-to-order eggs. It’s served in the garden, which is a pretty great way to start the day.
Is Blue Lime Still Worth It?
Honestly, yes. But only if you know what you’re getting.
It’s an adult-only, minimalist hideaway for people who want to be in the middle of the city but feel like they are a thousand miles away. It’s for the traveler who prefers a hidden alleyway over a grand lobby.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Book early: The private pool rooms sell out months in advance.
- Check the map: Tell your driver "Street 19, behind the Museum." Most know the "Blue Lime alley."
- Pack bug spray: The lush garden and pool area are beautiful, but the local mosquitoes think so too.
- Request a high floor: If you don't mind the stairs, the light is better and the noise is even lower.