Cambodia seeps with rich history, spectacular architectural delights and natural beauty a cynosure to all eyes.
Cambodia
Cambodia seeps with rich history, spectacular architectural delights and natural beauty a cynosure to all eyes. In the recent past the place has witnessed a luxury revolution, which is a far cry from its turbulent past, like the “killing fields” of Choeung Ek. Cambodia is ready to embrace visitors from around the globe to admire the magnificence of Angkor Wat (declared by UNESCO one of the seven wonders of the world), Thom and the colonial capital Phnom Penh. Cambodia is slowly coming of age and aims at becoming every luxury traveler’s paradise.
One such example of Cambodia’s luxury paradise is the Koh Rong archipelago. Most of the islands – scattered across the sapphire waters of the Gulf of Thailand – remain undeveloped and offer deserted oases of virgin rainforests, tropical reefs and glistening white beaches. The unspoiled islands present a unique opportunity to create a truly ecologically sustainable large-scale resort community. Koh Rong, Cambodia’s largest island covers 78 square kilometers, about a third of the size of Thailand’s Koh Samui. The island remains virtually untouched with its 28 white sand beaches stretching up to 6 kilometers and crystal clear water.
Within the Koh Rong Archipelago, two pristine islands Koh Ouen and Koh Bong lie side by side. They are locally known as Song Saa – Khmer for ‘The Sweethearts’. The Song Saa Private Island resort the two islands, connected by a footbridge over a marine reserve that has been established to safeguard the islands’ reefs and marine life including dugongs, seahorses and exotic species of tropical fish.
A private luxurious retreat in an undiscovered paradise.
The Song Saa Private Island resort is as seductive as the name implies. Think intimate. Think luxurious. But above all think harmony – with all the elements of nature that make this place so special.
Choose from twenty-seven luxury overwater, oceanview or jungle villas (all villas have private plunge pools) on the first of the two islands. From the moment guests set foot on Song Saa’s exquisite islands, they won’t have a care in the world. Adopting a ‘rustic chic’ design, the resort is inspired by Cambodian fishing villages with features such as over-water buildings, thatch roofs, rough-hewn natural timbers and drift wood furnishings.
At the resort’s heart is a world-class restaurant and lounge spectacularly positioned over the ocean to take in dramatic sunsets, seascapes and starry nights. A spa & wellness centre is situated on its own island with a Yoga & meditation centre on the eastern shore and a host of guest activities are on offer to showcase the surrounding archipelago, the staggering scenery and innately friendly people.
Robinson Crusoe experience
This is one’s chance to spend the night on what is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The guest is whisked around to the other side of Koh Rong, where he can find himself on his own deserted beach – complete with a stunning waterfall as a backdrop.
The food is prepared for the guest over an open fire and served by one of the friendly team members. The guest is then left in privacy for the night with a crackling fire, a fully equipped bar and a beautiful four-poster bed. With an open air shower and bathroom, the experience is topped off with an amazing freshly cooked breakfast n the morning.
Five Mile Beach excursions
Explore the amazing Five Mile Beach with its beautiful powder white sand. A trip by long tail boat will take one along the coast of Koh Rong to an untouched mangrove creek. Kayak to the end of the creek, from where it’s a short hike to this amazing beach – definitely one of the favorite spots. Walking at one’s leisure along the beach to the end, where a speedboat will be waiting to bring the guest home.
Treasure hunt
Pirate fans both old and young will enjoy the chance to follow one of the unique treasure maps. Find clues around Koh Bong and Koh Ouen, race against each other or in teams, but always remember X marks the spot.
Other adventurous activities include the kayak mangrove tour, snorkeling around Song Saa Islands, going for a bioluminescence swim, sea kayaking, tour Prek Svay, the nearby fishing village or go on a nature safari excursion.
How to reach here
The main Cambodian airports of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh have direct daily flights from Asia’s airport hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. Sihanoukville is a 3 hour drive from Phnom Penh and private car transfers can be arranged. Song Saa is a 30-minute private speedboat ride from the coastal city of Sihanoukville.
Best time to visit: The dry season of October to March.
Room rates: From US$670 to US$1,300 
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