If you are considering traveling to Southeast Asia, doing the Thailand-Cambodia trip is a favorite of many. The trip from Thailand to Sihanoukville, Cambodia can be a bit startling, however. It need not be.
Southeast Asia is a hugely popular travel destination with millions. This is particularly true now given the brutal economic climate and the fact that most of Southeast Asia is incredibly cheap. A common trip involves flying into Bangkok, putting around Thailand for a bit and then heading over to Cambodia for a bit of rest and relaxation.
If you take this trip, you need to be warned about something. The roads in Cambodia are legendary for their pot holes and the like. As a result, a lot of people cross the boarder at the Cambodian border town of Krong Kaoh Kong and then take a ferry down to the beach town of Sihanoukville. The warning has to do with first impressions.
Krong Kaoh Kong is a border town and not really a nice one. It is very scruffy and there is a feel of tension in the air. I've never had problems there, but it isn't really a place you feel all that comfortable. The town also closes down as soon as it gets dark, so plan on it just being a way station on the way to Sihanoukville.
You might be wondering about the wisdom of coming to Cambodia after getting a look at Krong Kaoh Kong. After a relaxing ferry ride, you are going to start wondering again when you pull into Sihanoukville. We are talking rusted out boats and what looks like a shanty town. Basically, it looks pretty bad.
Do not freak out when you see this. For some bizarre reason, the ferry docs in the middle of the commercial port for Sihanoukville instead of in a nicer area. There are no beautiful, relaxing beaches to be found on this side of the town. Instead, jump on the back of one of the mopeds being offered up as cabs and hold on. You will go up and over a hill and down into paradise Cambodian style. As you come over the hill, you'll drop through typical Asian neighborhoods and end up on idyllic beach locations where it is nearly impossible to be stressed out.
Sihanoukville and Cambodia are both great destinations. The border areas can be a bit rough, but don't let them put you off. An inexpensive paradise awaits, so don't hesitate to give the Thailand - Cambodia trip a try.
Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of travel writing journals that make great travel gifts.
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