The backpacker hub of coastal Cambodia, Sihanoukville (known locally as ‘Kampong Som’) is a fun place to hang out for a few days. Compared to the tourist mecca of South Thailand, the white sandy beaches of Cambodia are fairly undeveloped, and the atmosphere is laidback to the max. There are four main beaches: Independence, Otres, Occheuteal and Serendipity; the latter being the most popular amongst backpackers. And, just a couple of hours boat ride away, you’ll find ‘Robinson Crusoe-esque’ tropical islands just ripe for chilling in hammocks, munching on cheap seafood barbecues on the beach, and wicked nights spent partying with fellow travellers. On a more serious note, though, you do need to be careful here – violence, rape, theft and muggings have all been reported in Sihanoukville in recent times; it’s really not a good idea (for girls especially) to wander alone at night. All travellers should also keep in mind that Cambodia is still a developing country and one that is recovering from a very recent and very horrifying past; it’s certainly not Koh Phangan, and poverty can be desperate.
