Inside one of the world’s most luxurious airport transit hotels

Halal Tourism (Cambodia)

Phnom Penh, May 2nd, 2023 —

The Oryx is the only hotel within the airport itself, making it a logical choice for those with shorter layovers (by law, transit stays in the airport must be less than 24 hours). And there are also ways to experience the hotel without booking a room.

Travelers may access the Oryx’s “vitality center” at a cost of 175 riyals ($48) per person for up to four hours.

This wellness-centric area, one floor above the rooms, has a squash court, golf simulator, spa and hydrotherapy pools and hot tubs in addition to a swimming pool.

The narrow 25-meter (82-feet) long pool looks like it is encased in a glass jewel box.

Silver geometric designs are a major motif around the airport, and that continues to the pool, whose blue water shimmers against the light coming in from the lattice shape of the metal walls and ceiling.

Although there are some dress codes around public beaches in Qatar, the hotel is privately owned – meaning that guests can wear western swimwear. They can also order a poolside cocktail, as alcohol is permitted here as well.

Unlike the hotel, which is open 24 hours a day, the vitality center closes from 2-6 a.m. Access to these areas is gratis for hotel guests, although you still have to pay for spa treatments.

The treatments are designed specifically for travelers, like a massage for weary feet and a facial that addresses the dryness caused by recycled airplane air.

Lounge chairs line the side of the Oryx Hotel's lap pool.Some rooms at the Oryx look into the airport.