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7 March 2012
Where are you just back from?
I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Cambodia with a stay at the Song Saa Private Island Resort.
What did you see and do while you were there?
Visited the ancient temples of Angkor, visited a local School in Siem Reap, kayaked in the Mangroves down at Song Saa and Snorkelled in the Crystal clear waters around the resort.
What was the highlight of your trip - any hidden gems?
I saw the famous temple at Ta Prohm and pretended to be Lara Croft from Tomb Raider (this is where part of it was filmed!).The highlight of my trip was watching the sunset from the walls of Angkor Thom. We were very lucky to have a guide who knew of a secret spot on the Western wall that nobody else knew about.
We sailed down the river on Longtail boats. And when we arrived at the right spot we had a short walk up to the wall where we settled for a couple of hours, drinking cocktails, eating snacks and watching the sun setting over the beautiful scenery surrounding us. I stayed at La Residence - which was very well situated in the centre of town. Just a short Tuk Tuk ride away from the local markets and restaurants.
Next I was off to Song Saa Private Island Resort. This is the only resort of its kind in Cambodia and it was amazing! Total luxury in the most natural setting. They work closely with the local people and have tried to have as little impact on the natural environment as possible, which really stands out for me.
The views from the over water villas make you feel as if you're in the Maldives! The water is some of the clearest I have seen which makes for some excellent snorkelling - and diving once the dive centre is set up! Song Saa means Sweetheart in Khmer, and for me it is honestly one of the most beautiful and romantic places I have been to. Certainly somewhere to take your Sweetheart!
What is unique about Cambodia?
There are not many places in the world that you can climb through and discover 1000-year-old temples. Cambodians are so proud of these temples and you can feel this from all the guides there. When I arrived at Song Saa, I was instantly impressed by the whole ethos of the resort. The owners and creators wanted to build a resort suitable for 5-star travelers that would not impact negatively on the local community and work closely with them so they benefit from the increased tourism in the area.
This involves buying locally sourced produce and providing employment to locals. They also have many types of specialist conservationists employed on the island to make sure that the marine life remains unaffected.
And while all this is going on, the luxury feel within the resort is not compromised at all. It's an excellent concept that has allowed the development of this amazing resort without too much impact.
To plan your own Cambodia adventure, call one of our Cambodia specialists on 0207 589 0555.
Find out more about Song Saa Private Island Resort.
