IHG Hotels & Resorts is partnering with Peninsula Bay Investment Co., Ltd to bring the InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand back to Cambodia with the InterContinental Sihanoukville, slated to open in 2028. But Which Ihg Brand Was The First Luxury Hotel Travel Brand? The answer lies in the storied history of InterContinental itself.
InterContinental: A Pioneer in Luxury Hospitality
InterContinental Hotels & Resorts holds the distinction of being the world’s first international luxury hotel brand. Founded in 1946 by Pan American World Airways founder Juan Trippe, InterContinental aimed to provide high-quality accommodations for airline travelers in destinations lacking suitable hotels. This makes InterContinental not only an early entrant into the luxury market, but also a key player in shaping international travel as we know it.
The Return to Cambodia: InterContinental Sihanoukville
The new InterContinental Sihanoukville underscores Cambodia’s rising prominence as a luxury destination. Boasting 300 rooms with dining venues, bars, a spa, and coastal views, this hotel caters to both leisure and business travelers.
Peninsula Bay Integrated Resort: A Destination Within a Destination
The InterContinental Sihanoukville will be part of the Peninsula Bay Integrated Resort, a development spanning approximately 160,000 square meters. This resort will offer a blend of hotels, retail outlets, and entertainment options. The architecture is inspired by the dragon, which symbolizes good luck and strength, blending modern design with traditional Cambodian culture.
Strategic Location and Accessibility
Located just 30 minutes from Sihanoukville International Airport, the InterContinental Sihanoukville provides easy access to popular attractions, including Otres Beach, Ream National Park, and Wat Leu Pagoda temple. This strategic location ensures a diverse range of activities for all travelers.
IHG’s Commitment to Luxury and Growth in Indochina
Bryan Chan, Vice President, Development, South East Asia & Korea, IHG, emphasized the brand’s pioneering tradition and history in Cambodia. The collaboration with Peninsula Bay Investment Co., Ltd aims to create a tailored offering that complements the coastal location. IHG has a track record of working with owners to create properties that match their locations, such as the Grand Ho Tram in Vietnam and Newport World Resorts in the Philippines.
Cambodia’s Tourism Growth
Eddie Chua, General Manager of Peninsula Bay, highlighted the partnership’s commitment to delivering unmatched experiences in hospitality and retail. Cambodia’s tourism sector is growing, supported by its rich culture and increasing attractions. The Cambodian government’s comprehensive roadmap has led to a 23% increase in international visitors in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 1.4%.
InterContinental’s Enduring Legacy
With over 220 hotels worldwide, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has been a pioneer in luxury travel for over 75 years. The brand has played a role in transforming locations into key visitor destinations. InterContinental Sihanoukville will join this group of hotels, celebrating exploration, travel, and cultural discovery.
IHG continues to expand in Indochina, with 22 open hotels and 26 properties in the pipeline. InterContinental Sihanoukville will join other luxury hotels in Cambodia, such as Six Senses Krabey Island and the upcoming Vignette Collection Phnom Penh Odom, scheduled to open in 2027, cementing InterContinental’s place as the IHG brand that truly spearheaded luxury hotel travel.
