Koh Rong is a magical little island full of backpackers, such as myself. It was AMAZING! Now, I have not been to places such as the Philippines, but this was the closest to paradise I found on my trip through South East Asia! I expected to find beaches and pristine water in Thailand, but I was sadly mistaken. Who knew I’d find it in Cambodia, of all places!
The speed ferry we paid for, and were supposed to take over to the island from Sahinookville, broke down, so we were put on, what seemed to be, a large fishing boat with a rooftop deck area (not as nice as it sounds). As if I needed to get more tan! Was almost lost at sea a time or two. Note: don’t fall asleep when there is the possibility of slipping under the railing! Oops!
Pulling up to Koh Rong, there was one pier with small accommodations on each side. We were told to not book until we got there (mostly because none of the places take online bookings) so that was our main goal when we got off the boat (we were also told places fill up quickly). Friends recommended staying in bungalows at Monkey Island, a little ways down the beach. That sounded perfect to me! Luckily we had 3 people with us, making them somewhat affordable at $23USD/night. We got our own little beachfront paradise for a few days! Complete with mosquito nets and lizard freinds.
A small jungle beach party, some cuts and bruises from a night walk, a day boat cruise around the island with snorkeling and a sunset, and many breathtaking walks on the beaches later… we had to leave. Three nights was not enough. I was warned I would want to stay on this island forever, I can see why!
There is another island in close proximity to Koh Rong, called Koh Rong Samolen. This was not a great experience after having spent 4 days on Koh Rong. We got shoved onto a cargo boat with food and supplies for all the small ports on the island (and then had to stop at EACH one). It was extremely hot and I ended up getting sun stroke. Causing me to spend the next night miserable in bed. I was ready to leave. Koh Rong is definitely the island to go to!
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