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Cambodia Guide

The south

Sihanoukville

The closest that Cambodia gets to a full-blown beach resort, SIHANOUKVILLE is a town on the make. Five-star resorts and shopping complexes are mushrooming on every available plot of land, pushing aside locally-run beach bars. Fortunately for budget travellers, that vision has yet to be fully realized, and Sihanoukville still has plenty of long sandy beaches, fresh seafood and affordable facilities. It's certainly a good place to relax and unwind, and lazy days on the beach can be complemented by an evening of partying at one of the town's vibrant nightspots. If you're visiting during high season or a holiday weekend, though, be prepared to battle the crowds.

Activities

1 Scuba Nation Serendipity Hill 012/604680 www.scubanation.com There's superb diving off Sihanoukville and Scuba Nation, the only five-star PADI centre in Cambodia, offers a four-day Open Water course, day trips ($75) and overnighters ($195) – including night dives – on their tailor-made boat.

2 Eco Dive Between Golden Lions and Serendipity Hill 012/654104 www.ecoseadive.com PADI courses, fun dives, day- and overnight-trips, plus a three-day exploration of the waters around Koh Rong Samloem and Koh Tang.