Cambodia & Destination : Sihanoukville, a beautiful seaside holiday in lush surroundings

The magazine has already invited its readers to discover the exquisite, tropical charm of the Indépendance hotel in Sihanoukville. At that time, we highlighted the historical aspect of the main building, which is steeped in history.

One of the Indépendance hotel's family homes

Today, the resort aims to appeal more to local families. With this in mind, the prices of the villas built below the hotel have been revised downwards, so that families can now enjoy a wonderful holiday in the sun, in green surroundings close to a carefully tended beach.

All the villas have a terrace with a sea view, and are wonderfully comfortable. With air-conditioned rooms, television and internet connection, hot water and even a bath/spa on the terrace, nothing has been left to chance, even if the proximity of the beach and this splendid infinity pool with sea views suggests that interior comfort might not be the top priority.

The pool villa that's sure to leave a lasting impression

The hotel has something for everyone, from the family villa to the luxury Pool Villa, with its private swimming pool and breathtaking views over the Gulf of Thailand. A real gem.

For those who don't care much for the sea view, but love being close to nature, the Pod is also an original accommodation option, with its circular chalet-style wooden structures propelling you straight into a very ‘forest’ atmosphere.

Here too, although not the priority, comfort is not neglected and each Pod has air conditioning, hot water and a television.

Once you've put down your bags in your villa or pod, you'll want to take a dip in the magnificent swimming pool, just a minute's walk away. It's a short stroll that's in no way restrictive, as the immense green space surrounding the housing estate invites you to relax and enjoy yourself.

The famous swimming pool is perfect for lounging around and also for children, who can enjoy the small pool. A pleasant pool for swimming, but also a real feast for the eyes. Photo sessions are well under way among the guests, who never tire of having their portrait taken from every angle in this bewitching atmosphere of blue colours.

The hotel beach is just a few dozen metres away, accessible via a path cut into the rocks where many crabs come to stretch their claws.

Every morning, several customers try to catch a few fish by standing halfway along the promenade with a fishing rod. Along the promenade, there are a few shelters with tables and seats for those who would like to take an original little break.

The fine sandy beach stretches for around two hundred metres, with plenty of shade provided by the nearby trees. Every morning, the hotel teams clear the beach of any rubbish that may have been left by the unwary or, more frequently, pieces of wood or seaweed washed ashore by the waves. For sports enthusiasts, a volleyball net and a few sea kayaks are available.

The hotel beach, cleaned thoroughly every morning

The more curious visitors might like to see what happens beyond the confines of this beach. After the jetty, you can discover a dozen or so local restaurants and a few jet-ski hire companies. However, the prices charged, the lack of cleanliness and the repeated recklessness of the jet-ski drivers immediately make you want to head back to the hotel, although you may feel that this stretch of beach could do with a bit of organisation and cleaning.

What's more, the hotel's prices and the quality of the food served are far more attractive than some of these small beach restaurants.

As for the town centre, you can still get there by bike, or on foot for the more courageous. The beaches are now lined with wide, hard-surfaced promenades that are a pleasure to stroll along. For shopping enthusiasts, Prince Mall, a four-storey shopping centre housing several luxury boutiques and a supermarket, will do the trick.

The more courageous can take the walk to the great beaches of Ochhenteal or Otres, where the surrounding landscape has changed dramatically.

A trip back to the pool in the afternoon will also give you the chance to bump into those young Cambodian couples who have chosen the Indépendance hotel for their wedding. Indeed, what could be more romantic than a wedding photo on the rocks at sunset, just a few metres from the sea?

Finally, as night falls, it's time to grab your camera and capture the flamboyant colours of the sunset that beams down on the coastline.

Either at the top of the pool or on the rocks where a rudimentary lounge has been set up, a festival of colours guaranteed.

Back at the villa, everyone can enjoy a soothing bath after the sea spray and salt, on the terrace or indoors. For dinner, the choice outside is still limited, but the hotel has opened its restaurant and offers fast, efficient room service with a menu featuring Western dishes and Khmer cuisine at more than reasonable prices.

In the early morning, another even greener stroll takes you to the Ocean View, where a sumptuous breakfast is served, with a choice of Asian and Western fare.

A colourful buffet with plenty of goodies

With its traditional Sangkum hotel, family villas and Pod village, the Independence Hotel is undoubtedly a holiday destination whose appeal continues to grow and attract local customers.

As for the hotel staff, they are irreproachable, respectful and attentive.

It is advisable to make enquiries and book in advance, as the hotel is currently being reopened in stages. For more information and to book, visit their website.