Tourism & Hospitality: Sofitel's 60th anniversary celebration in Cambodia

For the past 60 years, Sofitel has been embodying French art de vivre all over the world. 2024 marks the brand's diamond jubilee celebrated through a series of exclusive events in Sofitel hotels allo ver the world, and in Cambodia.

Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra and Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort gave Rendez-vous to their guests on Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort bridge overlooking the hotel's lush garden for a beautiful cocktail followed by a magical Temple Dinner at Kravan Temple in the Angkor Wat Complex on 19th November 2024 for exceptional celebrations.

From left to right - Tom Meyer - VP Operations Accor, Charles-Henri Chevet - Area General Manager , Phokeethra Hotels, Maud Bailly - CEO La Maison, Jonathan Rudd - General Manager - Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra, Pascal Tadin - General Manager - Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort.

2024, an anniversary not to be missed

Sofitel Cambodia Marks 60th Anniversary with Spectacular Celebrations at Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra & Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort and Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra proudly celebrated Sofitel's 60th anniversary with an enchanting evening of cultural splendor, heartfelt hospitality, and timeless elegance.

The festivities began with a breathtaking cocktail reception on the iconic Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Bridge, overlooking Sala Lake and surrounded by the hotel's lush gardens. Guests were greeted with glasses of Champagne as the hotel is home of the first Champagne Bar in Cambodia. Hundreds of floating candles illuminated the tranquil waters, creating a magical ambiance enhanced by elegant lighting and a captivating performance by the Lady's Drum. This group of Cambodian women showcased the ancient Khmer art of traditional drumming, blending rhythmic beats with powerful warrior shouts, dance, and clapping-an unforgettable tribute to Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.

Following the cocktail reception, guests were escorted in rhythm by the famous Phare Circus to an exclusive Gala Dinner at the historic Kravan Temple. The evening featured traditional Khmer dances, adding a touch of grandeur and authenticity to the event. The renowned Khmer music group Chaktomuk set the ambiance for the night, creating an atmosphere of celebration and reverence.

One of the night's highlights was the presence of Ms. Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems, who delivered a heartfelt speech celebrating Sofitel's rich legacy and its deep connection to Cambodia. Mr. Paul Dubrule, co-founder of Accor, also graced the event, whose visionary leadership has been pivotal in shaping the brand's global success.

Distinguished attendees included Mr. Supachai Verapuchong, Managing Director of Phokeethra Group; Huot Hak, Cambodia's Minister of Tourism; Jacques Pellet, French Ambassador to Cambodia; and other dignitaries who added prestige to the occasion. Mr. Pascal Tadin, General Manager of Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, and Mr. Charles-Henri Chevet, General Manager of Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra and Area General Manager, also addressed the guests, emphasizing the enduring importance of Cambodian culture and Sofitel's heartfelt hospitality in the brand's journey.

Guests were treated with an exquisite five-course dinner, masterfu I ly crafted by Executive Chef Eric Berrigaud and his team. Each dish reflected a harmonious blend of French culinary expertise and Cambodian flavors, culminating in a stunning 60th-anniversary cake prepared by Pastry Chef Aymeric Alainbellet.

The event showcased Sofitel's dedication to heartfelt hospitality, providing guests with a truly magical experience. The celebration of Sofitel's 60th anniversary in Cambodia not only honored its prestigious legacy but also celebrated the vibrant culture and warm spirit of the Khmer people.

A diamond Jubilee celebrated in style

And the brand goes even further: many surprises will be unveiled throughout the year to celebrate its 60th anniversary with style. Starting with two major announcements at the beginning of the year: a new brand film and a collaboration that sparkles. The objective: to reaffirm the brand's pillars, from French Zest and committed luxury to an Heartfelt service culture and the deployment of the emblematic Cultural Link.

About this celebration, Ms Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems said:

“Sofitel, Angkor Phokeethra and Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, have always been cornerstones of Luxury hospitality and Guest experience since they opened in 2000 and 2010.“

Mr. Pascal Tadin said: “We are close to Angkor Wat temple, the largest religious monument in the world. Prasat Kravan was built in early 10th century. What a great venue for our Diamond Jubilee!”

Charles-Henri Chevet, Area General Manager at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra shared: “I am immensibly proud of both's Sofitel's achievements in Cambodia and honored to be part of its remarkable journey.”

More photographs here...

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New ambassadors and a new brand film

In April 2024, Sofitel unveiled a brand-new campaign headlined by two new brand ambassadors: actors Gillian Anderson and Dali Benssalah. The campaign features a short film titled The Encounter, which takes place in the flagship hotel Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, the epitome of a brand platform that is constantly evolving.

A collaboration with Courbet, sustainable jeweler

At the same time, Sofitel unveiled its new collaboration with the first sustainable jeweler on Place Vendôme in Paris: Courbet, which has designed an exclusive jewelry line that sumptuously expresses the shared values of the two Maisons, symbolizing Sofitel's diamond anniversary. The collection comprises 18 original creations that each embody the Sofitel Cultural Link. There are diamond pave earrings, cord bracelets available in different colors, pendant necklaces, and rings adorned with ethically sourced diamonds.

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