Life's a Beach!.. (in Cambodia)

Who doesn't love a beach? 

Sand, sea, a billowy sea breeze, cocktails, chill vibes, lush green palms... this could be an idyllic beach setting in many a tropical location; however, I'm in Cambodia and nothing's ever quite the same as anywhere else here.  Sihanoukville is Cambodia's popular beach resort and like most places throughout this country it still has that natural unrefined feel to it which I personally have loved from the start.  We took a public bus from our province in Kompong Speu along Route 4 to Sihanoukville.  As is the case with most journey's in Cambodia the bus was late (due to a Khmer holiday) and it was totally overcrowded with people squatting on tiny chairs in the aisle, but hey, it's all part of the 'experience' right!?  The bus drops you at Sihanoukville's town bus station and from here it's a 15/20 min tuk tuk ride to Sihanoukville's beach resort. (Our public bus cost us $3 one way, but the tourist bus is $7.) 

Our bus - decked out with the brightest turquoise upholstery! 

Everythang Hostel

As I usually do, I booked our hostel through HostelWorld and this time I chose Everythang Hostel located on Otres 1 beach.  It was a quirky, hippy little place with a super chilled vibe.  The staff reflected this and there was always a relaxed beat on in the background which picked up at night but kept the same relaxed feel.  Although lined up between all the other beach front accommodations; in Everythang I felt a million miles away from anywhere - it had it's very own heartbeat in the bustling resort of Otres. We were in a 3 bed PH ('penthouse') room; which was on stilts providing a stunning view out across the sea and a picture perfect view of the sunset.  Inside was very small and very basic - there were mosquito nets provided, but they had a patchwork of holes and tape where some holes had been covered.  There were also two small wall fans: most accommodation and all hostels don't have air con; although I did spot a few small boutique villas that offered air con rooms but at a price of $25-$30/ night.  Everthang cost us $7 per person per night, so for a friendly beach front accommodation with a chill vibe, good food and drinks and unobstructed views it's pretty good in my opinion! 

The beaches are beautiful with an almost white sand and clear water which was lovely and warm.  There are also loungers to use free of charge. 

Cute swing on one of the palms outside the hostel and above is one of the many ladies who work on the beach selling fruit and bracelets. 

Looking out across the sea at Otres there are small islands dotted around and plenty traditional boats willing to take you to visit if you can peel yourself off a lounger and away from the fresh fruit smoothies or tropical cocktails!