After the temple-studded wonders of Siem Reap, we headed south for five nights on the Cambodian island of Koh Rong, and what a contrast it proved to be. Where ancient stone once dominated the horizon, now it was endless shoreline, swaying palms and water in every imaginable shade of turquoise. I apologise in advance for the abundance of blue in this gallery; resistance was futile.
Our transport of choice was a wonderfully temperamental old scooter that bounced, rattled and protested its way across the island. Koh Rong’s roads are less “smooth coastal highway” and more “an enthusiastic interpretation of a surface.” Potholes lurked with ambition, sandy stretches tested balance and nerve, and occasional mud patches added an element of surprise. It was all part of the adventure that was dusty and rugged, but the whole time we were smiling from ear to ear.
The beaches were extraordinary, soft white sand, warm sea, and long, lazy horizons that encouraged us to slow down completely. Life here moves at an easier rhythm. The islanders we met had little in material terms, yet shared an abundance of warmth and smiles.
Our final farewell was delivered in dramatic style by a massive storm that rolled in at the end of our stay, with thunder cracking, rain hammering, skies turning theatrical grey. It felt like nature’s curtain call, and within an hour, normal service resumed as if it had never happened.
Koh Rong was muddy, bumpy, occasionally chaotic, and utterly magical. A truly wonderful escape which I hope is done justice by my photos.
