Asian Paradises

– 8 – www.paradises.com — C a m b o d i a — Peaceful Udong, 40 kilometres north of Phnom Penh, was the capital of Cambodia between 1618 and 1866. The town of Siem Reap is only a few kilometres from the temples of Angkor. Where to stay International standard hotels are available in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville is growing in popularity as the only beach resort destination in Cambodia. Facilities are being developed and the general increase in tourism in Cambodia has led to a boom in guesthouse accommodation. Getting around You can hire a car with a driver with taxis easily found in the cities. The tuk tuk (three-wheeled motor cycles) cyclos and motos (small motorcycles) can also be f lagged down for short trips. Buses also have an effective network and they make travel to sights around Phnom Penh easier than driving. For longer trips, trains are a longer but more comfortable option. There are also boats and the most popular services operate between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Fast boats head up the Mekong to Kompong Cham, Kratie and Stung Treng. Food and entertainment Khmer cuisine is similar to Thai and there are sidewalk noodle shops, food stalls and markets. It is wise to avoid eating or drinking from street vendors. The inf luence of the French is manifest in the breads and frogs' legs sold in the markets, and tea and coffee are widely available. Tap water and 'muscle wines' are best avoided. There is a growing number of good restaurants, including Thai, Chinese, Indian, Malay and Western, both in the capital and in towns that attract tourists. Activities There are activities such as snorkelling in Sihanoukville and elephant rides in Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri, but you need a guide, as landmines, bandits, and other dangers make hiking, outdoor activities, or venturing off the beaten track, dangerous. There are many leisure activities in Phnom Penh such as go- karting, jet-skiing, mini golf and ten pin bowling. A network of national parks is being established, complete with visitor facilities; Kirirom, Ream and Bokor on the south coast are the most accessible and extremely interesting. Nature The number of national parks is increasing, but illegal logging has long been a problem. Parks include Bokor, on the south coast; Ream, near Sihanoukville; Kirirom, outside Phnom Penh; and Virachay, bordering Laos and Vietnam. Endangered species which are elsewhere extinct are thought to be hidden in the more remote habitats, including elephants, tigers, leopards, gibbons, bats, rhinos and crocodiles. Butterf lies, snakes and birds such as cormorants, cranes and ducks are most common. Phum Thmey, Sangkat Prey Thom, Kep City, Kep Province 9890 CAMBODIA Tel: +855 36 210 310 Fax: +885 23212 194 Email: reservations@knaibangchatt.com www.knaibangchatt.com K N A I B A N G C H A T T This exclusive seaside resort can be discovered in the enchanting coastal town of Kep on the southeast coastline of Cambodia. Located just 24 kilometres from the charming provincial town of Kampot, and 175 kilometres from Phnom Penh, Knai Bang Chatt provides a perfect oceanfront oasis nestled amid the lush vegetation of the surrounding Kep National Park. This intimate-style retreat offers 18 air- conditioned rooms including one suite. Each room with its own distinct character showcases art deco with the perfect mix of modern minimalist and authentic Khmer-style décor. Relaxation and tranquility are key elements at Knai Bang Chatt. Relax by the resort's stunning infinity pool or indulge in a rejuvenating treatment or massage just metres from the sea at the spa. For those who prefer to keep active, there is an abundance of activities available including island excursions, tours of Bokor National Park, yoga, tai chi and meditation classes. The Strand restaurant provides healthy and delicious cuisine from fresh and local products, including the abundant seafood that is caught daily in the surrounding sea. The ideal seaside destination to relax and enjoy the sunset, the Sailing Club Restaurant & Bar offers a variety of beverages and an extensive menu of local seafood and tasty Western favourites. Knai Bang Chatt offers the perfect blend of privacy, serenity and exclusivity, combined with warm Khmer hospitality, making your stay in Cambodia unforgettable.

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