Publisearre: 15.11.2018
Heading towards paradise, if such a thing exists. Since we wanted to avoid a 12-hour bus ride, we chose the express version. Propeller plane. From Siem Reap to Sihanoukville in 1 hour. Unfortunately, we had to pay in cash when checking out of our accommodation because the credit card machine was broken. At the airport, we were told that we could get fresh dollar bills. A short ride there and we found an ATM. Got two 100 dollar bills, great. Might as well have spit out gold, it's hard to get rid of 20 dollar bills in Cambodia. Oh well. Spent time until the departure playing games and smoking, then boarded the plane. Probably Maren's worst moment on this vacation. Chinese model, barely enough space for 40 people. Impossible for me to stand straight in it. In the EU, takeoff and landing of this type of airplane are not allowed, for whatever reason. Full trust in Bayon Airlines, after all, this company only owns 2 airplanes. And so it was. Takeoff, short flight, landing. Everything as usual. Maybe a bit louder. Took a taxi to the port, then speedboat to Koh Rong Samloem. Everything came true at the ferry terminal there. Turquoise clear water, white beach, palm trees. Everything that triggers a Bacardi island feeling. Just amazing! Instead of walking the short kilometer to our accommodation, we were picked up by a boat. Checked in and put on our swimsuits right away. My self-set goal of wearing the swimsuit for the next few days (except when sleeping) was passed with flying colors.
The next few days were a healthy mix of walking, observing fish and other animals, swimming, tanning, hammock, hammock in the sea, sunset, reading a book, lounging on a deck chair, or simply chilling at probably the best restaurant in the world. Great atmosphere, more lying down than sitting, delicious food, super cocktails. Unfortunately, the prices were a bit steep, but we're used to that on islands. We had by far the most beautiful beach area, and our villas were not as ugly as some others. I felt a bit homesick when the dogs of the accommodation frolicked in the water and chased fish, but we're well informed about what our four-legged friend is up to.