To escap the Siem Reap's sizzling heat, head down to Sihanoukville, the laidback epicentre of Cambodia. While serendipity Beach's popularity continues to rise among backpackers, the beautiful Otres Beach, south of town, is the ideal spot for a relaxed, family vacation. The southern island are the place to be if you are looking for the tropical paradise vibe.
GETTING THERE
Unfortunately, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville- two of Cambodia's top tourist destinations are on opposite side of the country. Although less than 200 miles apart if you fly, on the road the journey can be as long as 350 miles. Traveling by plane is by far the easiest and safest way to do the journey. Cambodia Angkor Air offers flights four times a week, with one way ticket going for $115 to $150 and roundtrip tickets setting you back up to $300. Flight time is a little under an hour. By the road, the journey on bus or mini-bus almost inescapably entails a stop in Phnom Penh, and usually takes around 12 to 14 hours( including the layover in the capital). Giant bus and Mekong Express are some of the companies that offer this route. Ticket go from $20 to $24. Taxi between Siem Reap and Sihanoukville are also available, costing between $120 and $150. The trip on taxi will take about 10 hours.
WHERE TO STAY
Sihanoukville has a variety of accommodation ranging from a basic fan room at $5 to luxurious suite for $250 a night, with several boutique hotels in the $30-60 range. Most are located either downtown, near the bustling Ochheuteal Beach or at Victory Hill. Otres Beach, which sits about 10 minutes away from town is a popular option for budget travelers seeking peace and quiet, although the area is rapidly changing as more upmarket accommodation and restaurants set up shop there.
ACTIVITIES
Sihanoukville is, without a doubt, the sports capital of Cambodia, with a long list of activities offered to the visitor. Many visit this beach town in search of their scuba diving certification, or to relax with a fishing, snorkeling or standup paddle boarding session, while others go for more action-oriented activities, like Jet skiing and fly board. Countryside tours and trips to the nearby island are a popular recreational option. A great number of fascinating places lie within a 1-2 hour-ride from town. You can visit the small, charming towns of Kompot Province and Kep town. Stueng Hauv, a small fishing community, can be found an hour outside of town. Other day trips include Ream National Park and Tek Chou Waterfall. If you are craving some adrenaline, keep in mind that most of these trips can be done by dirt bike or quad.
FOOD&DRINK
Finding a place to satisfy your cravings for good food and refreshing drinks is never a problem in Sihanoukville. Its numerous expat-owned restaurants have brought many international culinary delights to the city, including French, Russian, Japanese, Korean, and of course, Chinese. Restaurants specializing in local food are also widely available: from fish amok to beef Lok Lak, finding your favorite Khmer dish will be a piece of cake. Sihanoukville is a fishing town where fresh seafood is brought to the market daily in astonishing variety. Restaurateurs buy fish from the different markets around town and use it in many different dishes, from Amok to fish and chips. Make sure you visit one of the city's many fish markets: you'll find your favourite seafood, from barracuda and marlin fillets to crabs and squid.
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