Why should you even consider a summer holiday to Koh Rong Samloem? After all, it's larger sister Island of Koh Rong is where all the action takes place. Because there are those three things you desire the most, or four things:
You will find them all on Cambodia's number one paradise Island. The reputation of Koh Rong, for being a "party Island" with a wicked nightlife is true. Thus, a little of that wildness has rubbed off on Koh Rong Samloem, the sister Island. Koh Rong Samloem you feel the party atmosphere often subdued. Not completely mute of course, only making it more approachable for families.
There are a few things you need to know about, and coming to Koh Rong Samloem you accept those shortcomings. Here are the three pointers:
Take cash with you, enough to cover your accommodation, food and other expenses. Further to this advice, you should stock up on the following items also, before arriving:
Be sure where it is you want to stay for your holiday. There are four main areas for tourists and there's a nice beach nearby. But getting around this sizable Island can prove to be problematic. Travel is possible but it's limited to going by boat and that is expensive.
The feeling of isolation grabs you as soon as you arrive. There are a few guests' accommodation housed on the long length of the beach. There are bars and restaurants alongside your accommodation, they go hand in hand. But other than that, it is a secluded location. But not as quiet as you may think, it is a popular beach, nonetheless. Not a bad thing at all you are thinking and not when it comes to nightfall.
You soak up the sunset of gorgeous pinks and purples reflecting off the ocean water. It's memorizing and mindful we felt, feelings of happiness surface as you walk away.
A private beach owned and managed by the resort of the same name. If its peace and quiet, you seek then the resort is your answer. Whereas Sunset beach may have the seclusion, we wouldn't say it is quiet. Of course, not how could it be, for people want to experience that once in a lifetime sunset.
The Lazy beach has peace and quiet and seclusion all rolled into one. Pay a little more for the resort and its privileges, is it worth it? Yes, most definitely. Because you enjoy a lot more beach to yourself. The resort owners put on a lot of activities and entertainment for their guests by the way.
When planning a holiday to Cambodia and you pick out Koh Rong Samloem, try to secure a bungalow. Each bungalow is close to the beach and surrounded by lush rainforest jungle. The setting and location do make you feel its paradise.
The development of the area is more recent. The best accommodation closer to the bay, with cheaper options elsewhere. You will also find that the bay is the only place that has decent internet and network reception. If your smartphone accepts an eSIM card, be sure to use those and not a native bought SIM card.
Getting back to why you've come to Koh Rong Samloem, the bay gives you great beauty and tranquility. Do you enjoy walking on soft white sand? If so, you'll love this bay with its pristine turquoise water. Swimming in the bay you feel as if it's a blessing. Waking up to the sunrise each morning is priceless as you wallow in the shallows after breakfast.
The Island waters light up certain times of the year after dark. This is due to the famous Koh Rong bioluminescent plankton. The sensation is like twinkling Christmas lights on the tree as the small creature's glow. Can you imagine the feeling of swimming and snorkeling in the water during this phenomenon? Notch up another one-of-a-kind experience. The best time is actually at night. Because there is so little light pollution, you enjoy the glowing blue hues from the water all the more.
And clear night skies reveal the heavens above you.
From the bay, head towards Koh Touch Beach. There are signs all over the bay and beaches giving you information where to go, often to book an US$8 boat tour. The tour is one of the best ways of seeing the phenomenon, so follow the billboards.
There are plenty of cafes and restaurants on Koh Rong Samloem resulting in a lot of choice when and where to eat. Many serve quality food at very pleasing prices. Fresh seafood and traditional Cambodian dishes, and European dishes typical of fast food.
You can get to Koh Rong Samloem from the Sihanoukville mainland by ferry. Koh Rong is a little further north by about 5km. There are no airports in Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem so ferry it is.
The best time to enjoy your summer holiday to Koh Rong? It is before the end of May. That's when the rainy season begins, it isn't a problem so early on, but the rain does get heavier from June onwards. If you want a winter break to Cambodia, then either of the Koh Rong Islands is perfect for Christmas and New Year. There are days long sunshine with little clouds and low humidity.
But it is March, April and May that have the hottest weather, you can expect 95° Fahrenheit most days. A winter break by the way, is cooler but still warm and pleasant for a holiday.
There aren't all that many attractions on either of the Islands in the true sense of what attractions you were expecting. The Islands' only feature or attraction that draws you here are the beaches and the "laid back" atmosphere. For the curious we will mention there are:
M’phey Bei Village has the cheapest accommodation on the island with a bed from US$5 per night, and rooms and bungalows starting from US$20 per night. The village is very popular with backpackers who are quite content to mingle with local villagers and fishermen.
The village does have a beach, but it has been converted into a pier for the fishermen's boats but not all is lost. A little distant there is a secluded beach with you will find all to yourself. Ideal opportunities exist for sunbathing and swimming and snorkeling.
If you are unable to travel to Cambodia during the summer months, the Island is still a gem for a winter break during the Christmas and New Year period. Any time from November through to May the following year, in fact, can be ideal. Just be sure to book your flights and hotel in advance ― October at the latest to secure the best rooms.
With the understanding of the as for mentioned shortfalls of Koh Rong Samloem our feeling is that the Island is more suitable for digital nomads and backpackers. And "party animals" holidaying on Koh Rong looking to finish off their last few days on a beach.
If you are determined to come, then follow our guide and prepare yourself as best you can. Possibly even book into the beach resort if you're eager for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience, or the kids are in tow.
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