The Abandoned City of Sihanoukville, Preah Sihanouk or Kampong Som (Preah Sihanouk)

The Abandoned City of Sihanoukville, Preah Sihanouk or Kampong Som (Preah Sihanouk)

Hello, I am mr.hotsia. I had the chance to travel to Sihanoukville, locally called Kampong Som, a seaside city full of stories, both peaceful and lively in its own way. Sihanoukville is one of Cambodia’s top beach cities. Although it is not as famous as Pattaya or Phuket in Thailand, it has a unique charm you won’t find anywhere else.

My journey started from Trat province, a Thai border province adjacent to Cambodia, passing through Ban Hat Lek checkpoint in Khlong Yai district. This route is very convenient and fast. I took an air-conditioned bus from Cherdchai Tour company from Bangkok to Trat, then transferred to a vehicle to the border checkpoint before crossing into Cambodia without any hassle. (Read more detailsTraveling from Trat to Sihanoukville)

Experience the Lifestyle and Fresh Market in Sihanoukville

Upon arriving in Sihanoukville, the first thing I explored wasSihanoukville Marketwhich is a simple fresh market full of the locals’ sincerity. This market is located in the city center, near a school where children come to school accompanied by teachers who warmly welcome them. I saw students picking up trash along the roadside, a scene that reminded me of my childhood when teachers asked us to clean in front of the school.

This market doesn’t just offer fresh and dried goods but is full of life and stories of the people of Sihanoukville. Here, you will see vendors balancing goods on their heads, skillfully selling fresh fruits, seafood, or freshly made snacks. It’s a scene I have never seen anywhere else, reflecting a culture and lifestyle blending seaside living with simplicity.

Local Foods You Must Try in Sihanoukville

Food is another charm of this city that I don’t want you to miss. I stayed at Sihanouk Timeshare Hotel, not far from the market, with local restaurants nearby. Here, I tried a Khmer-style breakfast such as grilled pork rice, similar to southern Vietnamese grilled pork rice. The fragrant grilled pork was served with a fried duck egg, rich and flavorful. However, I advise eating it freshly grilled only, as I once encountered a place where the pork was left out too long and attracted flies, causing stomach upset.

Additionally, I tried chicken rice porridge at a late-night restaurant in front of my accommodation, a popular dish among Sihanoukville locals, and stir-fried noodles with a rich flavor comparable to anywhere else. There were also grilled stingray and pork knuckles, favorite local dishes. To truly experience the authentic Sihanoukville dining atmosphere, I recommend walking through the market and ordering from street vendors—you won’t be disappointed. (Read more atFood and Restaurants in Sihanoukville)

Accommodation and Atmosphere in Sihanoukville

There are accommodation options both in the city and by the beach. I chose to stay in the city at Sihanouk Timeshare Hotel, about a 10-minute walk from the beach. If you don’t want to walk, tuk-tuks are available. Prices start at around 15 USD per night, which is very reasonable for a beach city that is not yet bustling with international tourists. (Read recommended articlesHotels and Accommodation in Sihanoukville)

However, be warned that power outages are common in Sihanoukville, especially in small hotels or homestays, so be prepared for this. Larger hotels usually have backup generators available throughout the night.

Beaches and the Vibrant Abandoned City Atmosphere

Sihanoukville’s beaches are beautiful and clean. Although the sand is not as fine and white as Koh Samet, the sea here is clear and peaceful, perfect for those wanting to escape the hustle of big cities. The beach is filled with vendors balancing goods on their heads, selling food and fruit, creating a lively and unique atmosphere.

Sihanoukville is like a vibrant abandoned city in its own way. It lacks the bustle of beer bars or nightlife like Pattaya but offers simplicity and natural charm that is more captivating.

Summary of Experience from mr.hotsia

For anyone looking for a beach destination not yet well known among Thais, Sihanoukville is a highly recommended choice. Traveling from Trat is convenient, and the city offers charm in its local lifestyle, delicious food, interesting fresh markets, and peaceful beaches. For more details about travel, accommodation, or activities, I recommend reading my articles linked within.

If you want to see real photos and clips from this trip, you can follow atThe Abandoned City of Sihanoukville, Preah Sihanouk or Kampong Som Videowhich will help you visualize and feel the city more clearly.

Thank you for following mr.hotsia’s stories. See you again on the next journey!