Ream National Park includes the peaceful island of Koh Thmei. Located just a few hundred metres from the mainland, the shores of this island are lined with mangroves, almost deserted beaches and numerous forests.
The island is a nature lover's paradise, home to some of the most varied flora and fauna in the region. At 40 square kilometres, Koh Thmei is one of the largest islands on the Cambodian coast, but also one of the least developed, with a resort, guest houses and a few local villages nestling on its peaceful shores.
Yeejia Tourism Development Co Ltd has built a series of bungalows on the edge of the island's largest beach as part of its expansion in the region and its desire to offer several local destinations in Ream.
Access
The journey from Ream takes just a few minutes on board a speedboat.
It then takes around ten minutes by electric car to get to the hotel, which has just reopened and some sections of which are still under construction.
Accommodation
The bungalows are located between the main beach, which stretches for several kilometres, and a small forest, which definitely gives the hotel an authentic, fresh and exotic feel.
A large cement walkway between the beach and the bungalows makes it easy to get around, and you can even borrow one of the bikes provided.
The bungalows are of a reasonable size, with all the minimum comforts, including wifi, hot water, air conditioning and a fridge. Swimming pools are being built in front of each house, and there's no doubt that in a few months' time, the area will be even more attractive.
Restaurant
Built on the same principle as the hotel of the same group that we described in a recent edition, the restaurant does not offer an à la carte menu, but rather prepared menus consisting mainly of Cambodian dishes with an abundance of seafood and fish.
The single menu costs $25 per person, but the quantity and quality are there for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
For those who do not wish to use this service, it is still possible to have a picnic or organise a barbecue, as long as you have brought the necessary equipment and ingredients.
Please note, there is no store nearby, so a minimum stock should be anticipated for this option.
Beach and leisure
The beach is vast, pleasant, and cleaned every morning by the hotel staff. Indeed, daily cleaning is necessary not due to the negligence of the premises or the clients, but primarily because of the plastic waste carried by currents from fishing boats or from the mainland.
The hotel does not yet offer organized activities outside of walks in the surrounding forests or caves accompanied by an experienced guide who speaks perfect English.
However, snorkeling (remember to bring your gear) is possible between the rocks located at the end of the beach. By going there early in the morning before the swell and wind pick up, it is possible to observe some colorful fish and a bit of marine life.
Those who have a fishing rod will be able to indulge in this activity. No need to take a boat; the area is still very fish-rich, and standing on one of the rocks is enough for a reasonable chance of catching a few.
For the more adventurous, mountain bikes are available, but the island's rugged terrain and the lack of shade along the main road can quickly turn a short ride into a truly challenging experience unless you are in great physical shape and accustomed to such conditions.
However, the hotel management confirms, as with the previous establishment, that leisure facilities and equipment are planned for the coming weeks.
The price of the bungalow ranges from 80 to 120 dollars per night depending on the season, but it is advisable to inquire at 097 711 8688.
Koh Thmei, under these conditions, is therefore ideal for a family getaway away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Those with children will be delighted to keep them entertained on a very uncrowded and well-maintained beach, even introducing them to the joys of snorkeling, in addition to building sandcastles...
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