Destination: Cambodia | some basic information and travel assistance and hotel suggestions

After finishing my first journey through Cambodia, I admit I am excited to return. It is one of the more charming countries in Asia.

Tourism has undoubtedly taken off in Cambodia but it still remains relatively off the beaten track, compared to Vietnam. This makes steering clear of crowds – unless you’re at Angkor – much simpler, with many remote spots within easy reach. And let’s not forget the fact that Cambodia still holds a little more edge when name-dropping countries visited among fellow travelers and friends.

Most descriptions of traveling in Cambodia lead with words such as “charm,” “allure,” and “peace.” Those are all true, unquestionably — but some of that allure comes from a mix of cosmopolitan options, SE Asia history right in front of you, and some of the best food in the world. Angkor Wat is an amazing architectural and cultural achievement, and Bamboo Island has roughly 30 residents (serenity pervades).

You will need a valid passport and a Cambodian visa to enter Cambodia. Tourist and business visas are valid for one month from the date of entry into Cambodia. While you can get a Visa upon entry, it may be a wiser to have an e-visa issued in advance.

Official Cambodia e-Visa Application site

US Department of State Country Information

As with most of Cambodia, the best season to visit is their dry season, October to the end of February.

Most transactions are in the US Dollar.

Shinta Mani Wild
north of Sihanouk
Cleverly disguised as a luxurious jungle retreat, river-perched Shinta Mani Wild takes conservation work very seriously indeed. Starchitect Bill Bensley’s fingerprint is everywhere here, from the decadent tented suits to the playful zipline that delivers guests straight into the bar. You’d be forgiven for wanting to stay in – a pampering spa, outdoor bath tubs and the lulling sound of waterfalls may be too hard to resist – but a world of adventure awaits. Hit the trails with the resident experts, tag along on anti-poaching patrols or hop on the private boat for one-of-a-kind tours of Cambodia’s unspoilt waterways.

Part of my Preferred Partners Portfolio, includes:
   • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
   • Continental Breakfast for two daily
   • Complimentary round-trip private airport transfers
   • A beautifully wrapped branded dry bag

Virtuoso Information Page

A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER
PART OF MY TABLET HOTEL PORTFOLIO
PART OF MY MR. & MRS. SMITH PORTFOLIO

Six Senses Krabey Island
15-minute cruise from Sihanoukville
Beautiful new Six Senses in the Southern Seas of Cambodia. ix Senses Krabey Island is a droplet of paradise in the cerulean Gulf of Thailand, with sugary white-sand beaches and a private plunge pool at every jungle-set villa. Days here are spent snorkelling coral reefs, dabbling in water sports, or practising yoga in the rooftop pavilion – and there’s kids club to keep little ones busy too. At the signature spa, you can pick between traditional Khmer treatments, or concoct your own skin products at the Alchemy Bar. The organic Earth Lab supplies ingredients for the farm-to-table restaurants, and there’s a glass-walled cocktail bar for sunset cocktails.

Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, Food or Spa Credit).

Six Senses Krabey Island Website

PART OF MY HIDDEN DOORWAYS PORTFOLIO
PART OF MY MR. & MRS. SMITH PORTFOLIO
PART OF MY TABLET HOTEL PORTFOLIO

Alila Villas Koh Russey
Koh Russey / Permanently Closed
A short speedboat ride from the Cambodian coast, Alila Villas Koh Russey brings the hotel group’s signature striking architecture to the Koh Rong archipelago – not least at the Angkor Wat-shaped terraced pool. The teak temple-like villas on this former navy outpost are minimalist marvels, some with private pools, pavilions in the garden and a steps-from-the-shore setting. The forest-flanked mountains of the Bokor National Park await, as do tuk-tuk tours back on the mainland at Ream.

Song Saa Private Island
Koh Ouen, Sihanoukville
Created with sustainability in mind, Song Saa Private Island reflects the beauty of the Cambodian coastline. It’s a place that breathes in time with nature, built from local materials, by local hands, and infused with local art and soul. An evolved tropical getaway with a pristine private beach, spacious wooden villas, heavenly spa sanctuaries and a preserved coral reef, Song Saa Private Island lets you detach from the world and tune into simple luxuries.

Part of my Preferred Partners Portfolio, includes:
   • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
   • Full breakfast daily
   • $100 USD equivalent Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
   • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
   • Complimentary Wi-Fi
For stays of 4 nights or more
   • $100 USD equivalent Spa Services credit to be utilized during stay
   • 1 Hour Private Yoga Session Per Villa Per Stay.

Virtuoso Information Page

A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER

Aqua Mekong
between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, and beyond
Floating down the Mekong is a bit like stepping back in time, with the meandering hills and dense mangroves creating an ever-changing landscape that’s a feast for the eyes.

Inspired by traditional Khmer and Vietnamese building styles, the vessel is made entirely of materials produced along the Mekong, including dark patinated leather, finely woven textiles and wood paneling that glows auburn in sunlight. After discovering temples, floating villages and hidden Buddhist monasteries, you’ll have time to revel in the indulgent facilities, which include an outdoor plunge pool, spa, library, two well-stocked bars and a fine-dining restaurant with a menu by renowned chef David Thompson.

contact me for current schedule options

PART OF MY MR. & MRS. SMITH PORTFOLIO