Preah Sihanouk

The only deep-water port in Cambodia and the entrance to the islands is Sihanoukville, which bears the name of the former king Norodom Sihanouk. Its international airport is located 12 miles (20 kilometers) southeast of the city. The airport provides international travelers with more direct access to places like Kampot and Kep as well as the islands, whereas travelers from the capital, Phnom Penh, frequently select the road or even the train.

Travelers used to flock to Sihanoukville, a formerly peaceful seaside town. But in recent years, the town has undergone an alarming transformation at the hands of Chinese developers. Large hotels with casinos and skyscrapers are being built at such a rapid pace that both locals and foreign tourists are upset. The town is currently nothing more than a gigantic Chinese construction site, with more cranes than one can count looming above the structures. Despite the fact that gambling is prohibited in Cambodia, Sihanoukville has developed into a booming hub for Chinese-run casinos. In the town, there are currently over 100 casinos, several of which are still under construction. Nowadays, the majority of the shops and restaurants are Chinese, even lining the streets.

There are more Chinese-language street signs than any other language. In order to prepare for the construction of a resort, the developers have already gone in with earthmovers to one of the most stunning beaches, Clear Water Bay on Koh Rong Sanloem.

Location: Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia

Best time to visit: October to Early May