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Originally founded as a French colonial retreat in 1908, the seaside
resort of Kep-sur-Mer managed to retained its fun-loving and
elite flavor with Cambodian high rollers continually flocking to the
resort to gamble and indulge in water sports. That is until the Khmer
Rouge and the famine of 1979 ended its days of grandeur.
Nowadays, the beach itself may either strike visitors as being “scruffy”
or “raffishly charming.” Located on a small headland, a 6km palm-fringed
road runs along the coastline and bears witness to droves of weekenders
heading towards the shore.
A short boat ride away from Kep-sur-Mer is the Rabbit Island,
locally known as Koh Tonsay. Offering better beaches than those
at Kep, visitors have the option of staying with the families on the
island. It would be wise however, to take note that malaria can be
prevalent on islands off Cambodia mainland. Precaution is advised.
Boat rides to the island may be arranged with the seafood vendors at Kep.
Depending on how many people are coming, boats on average may be hired
at US$20.00.
Sleeping and eating places:
Kep Seaside Guesthouse (Tel.no:012-684241)
The best of all budget seaside accommodations, the rooms here are all
clean and shipshape. For additional fees, rooms with balconies and sea
views may be obtained. The guest house also has a garden with thatched
pavilions and hammocks.
Le Bout Du Monde (Tel.no: 012-955670)
The hotel only offers basic rooms with a squat bathroom in a big wooden
pad. There are however, very beautiful views from the terrace and food
which even Phnom Penh expats regard very well.
Verandah Guesthouse (Tel.no:012-333322)
Bungalow semis and a very pretty garden are offered at this guesthouse.
Finding a place to eat at Kep is fairly easy with numerous bamboo shacks
along the coast offering fresh seafood and native dishes. Be sure
however to agree on prices before ordering any food and make sure that
the crustaceans are fresh.
Visit Cambodia today! A walk down culture and
history..
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