Regardless of whether or not you’re looking for a relaxing, romantic or exciting getaway, Cambodia is one destination you should consider. Not only is it budget-friendly, but there are numerous things to do here as well.
In fact, if you want to avoid the tourist traps and overpriced food, you might want to check out Sihanoukville. Never heard of it? Well, this underrated coastal city of Cambodia is so full of wonder and gorgeous beaches, you just HAVE to visit it. Here are some activities you can consider that won’t break the bank:
1. Take a dip at the Kbal Chhay Waterfall
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Located approximately 16km outside of Sihanoukville, this multi-tiered waterfall includes an over 45-feet drop into the deep river below. Best time to visit is between July and October during the rainy season so the waterfalls are filled with gushing waters and not just a trickle.
What to do here:
- Take a refreshing dip in the water or sit beneath the waterfalls for a nice (100% natural), back massage
- Rest and relax in the huts or on the hammocks available in the area
- If you’re planning a picnic, you can purchase cheap food and drinks from roadside stalls situated right outside the waterfall area
Price: RM4 – RM5 (entrance fee)
2. Visit the magical Koh Rong Samloen island where you can experience Life of Pi’s luminous ocean
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Source: Call Stevens
Known as one of the quieter and less touristy islands, visitors can take a boat ride here and have the time of their lives, especially during the night where you’ll be able to experience Life of Pi’s magical, glowing ocean IRL. The glowing is caused by bioluminescent planktons, by the way!
What to expect:
- Because the island is quieter with fewer tourists, there isn’t much light pollution in the area, making it much easier to spot the bioluminescent planktons
- If you’re a good swimmer (and daring enough), you can swim out into the ocean at night and float among the glowing planktons. (Note: The planktons light up when you shake the water. Try moving your hands underwater!)
- During the day, you can sunbathe on the soft white sand or go snorkelling
Price: RM45 (boat ride)
3. Speaking of the ocean, there are PLENTY of beaches in Sihanoukville
Seeing as to how Sihanoukville is a coastal city, it’s situated nearby some very beautiful, uncrowded beaches with crystal clear blue waters. Here are some of the beaches/islands to check out:
- Koh Rong Island (yes, it’s different from Koh Rong Samloen)
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Definitely an island you’ll want to visit to get away from the busy city life and just swim in clean, crystal clear blue waters. Enjoy five kilometres of untouched, soft, white sand and palm trees.
Price: RM20 boat ride from Koh Rong Samloen
- Ochheuteal Beach for something a bit more lively
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One of the more popular beaches among the locals here, you’ll be able to see a row of stalls lined up by the beach selling grilled seafood and drinks. There are a couple of beachside bars and some seafood restaurants nearby too.
Price: RM20 boat ride from Koh Rong Samloen
4. Catch incredible sunsets while you sip on some cocktails at the beach bars
You can never go wrong with bars by the ocean. Accompany that with an evening sunset and you’ll have the most romantic, Instagram-worthy setting ever. Interested? Then be sure to check out these bars while you’re in Sihanoukville:
- Papa Pippo Bar @ Otres Beach
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Source: Papa Pippa
Situated at the end of Otres Beach, Papa Pippo Bar is a restaurant and bar known for its authentic Italian pizzas and alcoholic beverages. They also serve cakes and piadinas (Italian flatbread). It generally gets busier towards the evenings but you don’t have to worry about it being overcrowded.
Price: Cocktails from RM14 onwards
- Mien Mien Bar @ Otres Beach
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You’ll be spoiled for choice here as Mien Mien offers a wide variety of both Khmer and Western foods for you to choose from. They also serve freshly barbecued seafood for you to nibble on at less than RM4 a stick. Located just a few feet from the ocean’s edge, you can also enjoy a delicious and refreshing cocktail as you bury your feet in soft, white sand.
Price: RM5 – RM20 (For barbecued seafood and/or a cocktail)
5. Channel your inner chef and join a Khmer cooking class
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If there’s one thing Malaysians love, it’s food. And what better way to get to know a culture than through their local cuisine, ammirite? Well, instead of just eating it, why not learn how to make it from scratch? And you can do just that at the Tastes of Cambodia Cooking School. The class includes a trip to the market, a recipe book, a three-course meal (which you’ll be cooking yourself) plus, cooking pastes and mixes that you can take home with you.
Price: RM70
How amazing do these places look?! It’s the ultimate getaway if you just want to kick back, relax and enjoy a cocktail by the beach. It also makes for a pretty romantic holiday destination, if you ask us. 😉
Well, if you’re interested, you’d be glad to know that AirAsia flies direct to Sihanoukville and they’re having an insane promo now!
Deets below:
Member one-way fare: RM79 (Non-Member: RM84)
Booking period: Until 10 March 2019
Travel period: Until 31 August 2019
Ready to book your next flight to Cambodia or need more info? Head to their website asap!
