The coastal town of Sihanoukville is undoubtedly one of the most visited places in Cambodia. Sihanoukville is very popular as a stopover to the beautiful islands like Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem. Also locals like to come to Sihanoukville, especially on weekends or public holidays. I also visited Sihanoukville and spent a few days there.
To be honest, it was a complete disappointment! I absolutely did not like the place, because it is packed with hotels and especially casinos for Chinese tourists (or generally gambling tourists). Also the beach of Sihanoukville was not that nice and I would definitely not come back.
The good news is: there is a better alternative. Just 10 kilometers south of Sihanoukville lies Otres and Otres Beach.
Otres and Otres Beach
Otres is split into Otres 1 and Otres 2, as the beach is quite long. It's almost 3 kilometers from one end to the other. Near Otres Beach 2 there is also a small village. If you are looking for peace, then you are exactly right here. Mass tourism is still a foreign word. Nevertheless, the 2 Otres beaches offer a certain tourist infrastructure: hotels and resorts as well as restaurants and beach bars are offered.
I particularly liked Otres 2. There you really feel very welcome. People are happy about tourists and you are greeted warmly everywhere. Although the village is partly still a construction site and the roads are mostly sandy roads, it makes you feel very comfortable. Unlike Sihanoukville, everything seems more authentic, more original, more quiet.
Just like Sihanoukville, Otres has no paradise beaches. You should not expect too much here. Nevertheless, the atmosphere is simply nicer and more suitable for relaxing.
Seems like every shop in Cambodia has beer advertising 😂
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Conclusion: If you are planning a trip to Koh Rong (or the other islands off Sihanoukville), better stay in Otres for a stopover. I personally can not recommend Sihanoukville, at the most if you like to party or gamble. So it's only to be hoped that Otres will not become another destination for players and backpackers in the future.
Travel Resources for your trip to Cambodia
Recommended by TravelFeed
Flights: We recommend checking Kiwi.com to find the best and cheapest flights to Cambodia.
Accomodation: Explore the best places to stay in Cambodia on Booking.com, Agoda and Hostelworld.
Travel Insurance: Medical emergencies abroad can be pricey, but travel health insurance is not. We always use SafetyWing for affordable and reliable coverage.
Car Rental: For hassle-free car hiring, DiscoverCars is our trusted choice with a wide selection of vehicles.
Internet: Got an eSIM compatible phone? Airalo is perfect for reliable internet access during your trip. Just install it before you go, and you're set!
Day Trips & Tours: We recommend GetYourGuide for a variety of well-organized and enjoyable activities.
Travel Planner: Need a hand planning? Our free travel planner chatbot is your personal guide to Cambodia. Chat now.
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