KEP

KEP

From the early 20th century through the 1960s, Kep was Cambodia’s premier beach town drawing weekend holidayers to its picturesque shores and sporting the ocean side villas of the privileged class. Despite well-known as the thriving resort town for French and Cambodian elite, Kep’s inherent natural charms are not chipped away and come to the fore as the enticing splendours of a hidden-away destination. Besides narrow and almost golden sandy beaches, the mountainous scenery is astounding, but visitors come to appreciate the area’s subtle charms such as the crumbling timelessness of the dismal colonial buildings. Sights of ordinary locals diligently working on the salt terrains or affable fishermen trawling for fish are normal occurrences. Forget fine dining service and a palette of well-presented dishes, local food lovers may stroll down to the beach to cheerfully degust or even feel tucked into seafood delicacies. Should an escape from the high-end resort’s boundary be in demand, take a soft trek at Kep National Park where wildlife enthusiasts may capture elusive creatures and discover a stunning backdrop of exuberant fauna and flora.

If the inland Kep Town does not provide enough castaway experience, hop onto a wooden boat and drift a few miles to a little known island, Rabbit Island, to get soaked in the sensational countryside scenery. Gracefully contouring the island’s edges, the secluded pristine beaches embellished with rustic bungalows offer getaway travellers a contemplative relaxing experience. The nature’s breath fusing with the rhythm of gentle waves dissipates the obsession of the frantic busy life. Have a blissful promenade around the coastline to scour empty shells and colourful pebbles. Otherwise, take a nap on swinging hammock to literally have a laid-back travel escape before witnessing the sun setting and gradually disappearing behind the horizon. These are the most breathtaking moments one may ever experience.