Koh Kong hotels and guesthouses guide
Koh Kong Resort is sheer luxury with a casino
For a small town, there are a surprising number of accommodation options on Koh Kong, ranging from dirt cheap guesthouses to bargain priced mid-range hotels. There is even ‘luxury accommodation’ on nearby Koh Andet Island, and at the Koh Kong International Resort. A slew of new casino-themed entertainment complexes should soon open to lure keen gamblers from Thailand.
Most places are centred on the ferry dock or just south east of the traffic circle between Street 9 and Street 14; though the recently improved road network has seen a few newer establishments set themselves a couple of blocks back from the waterfront. Prices start from US$3 for the most basic guesthouse room, with US$8 – US$10 securing something fairly decent.
Mid-range hotels range from US$15 – US$35 and some great deals can be found if you visit a couple yourselves, as opposed to by moto or tuk-tuk which will inevitably charge a commission. Reservations are not needed in Koh Kong.
Recommended Koh Kong hotels and guesthouses
Koh Kong Heritage Guesthouse: Set two blocks back from the river, this new guesthouse features spotless rooms with both air conditioning and TV, in addition to reliable travel advice and a small but well stocked bar, all for under US$15. Street 6, tel: + (855) (0)16 999 952.
Neptune Guesthouse: The long-running backpacker choice in Koh Kong, this popular guesthouse has rooms from just US 3. A pleasant, traditional Khmer house with a lovely beer garden, the rooms are basic but clean and the restaurant has one of the better (though limited) Western-orientated menus.
A good source of information for exploring the numerous local sights, Neptune offers bicycles and motorbikes for rent, in addition to organising day trips to various beaches, waterfalls, islands and the stunning Cardamom Mountains. Between Street 9 and Street 14, tel: + (855) (0)11 984 512
Otto’s Guesthouse: Along with Neptune, the budget option in the town. In a pleasant location just a block back from the river road, the guesthouse is a ramshackle collection of wooden rooms and slat beds but the highlight are the two massive balconies which have become the default meeting point for travellers. Reliable travel information and no commission paid to the moto cartel. Street 8, tel: + (855) (0)35 936 163.
Insider Tip – Ignore all warnings from local drivers that your preferred hotel is closed, dirty, dangerous, burnt-down or recently exploded – the commission mafia will try anything in this town.
Koh Kong Resort: The established up-market complex of Koh Kong, featuring accommodation, an entertainment complex and casino – usually half-filled with eager Thai gamblers and visa-running expats. The best rooms in town, with both bungalows and spacious suites befitting the US$100+ price tag, there is also a steam room, sauna, fitness centre and swimming pool.
The site is just one minute from the border, next to the Koh Kong Safari World – and offers plenty of entertainment for the kids. Credit cards accepted. Western side of the bridge, tel: + (855) (0)16 700 970...More details and booking
Neptune Guesthouse is a firm favourite here
Apex Koh Kong: Featuring cable TV, DVD player, ensuite and mini-bar rooms, Apex also has a decent swimming pool and Khmer/ Thai/ Western restaurant. They also offer tours, travel advice and laundry services – just two minutes walk from the ferry dock. Street 8, tel: + (855) (0)16 307 919.
4-Rivers Floating Eco-Lodge Range: A unique and stunning eco-lodge featuring high-quality tented villas on Koh Andet Island at the foot of the Cardamom Mountains, around one-hour’s drive from the city. A spectacular floating swimming pool in the Tatai River and wonderful jungle location, in addition to being one of the few places with wifi, makes this a luxurious escape. Credit cards accepted. Route 48, tel: + (855) (0)17 240 859...More details and booking
Koh Kong City Hotel: A sprawling, new mid-range option with the finest location in Koh Kong, the hotel offers wonderful sunset and ocean views. All the mod-cons are included including cable TV, internet and mini-bar is large, clean rooms. The restaurant also does a great range of seafood with an emphasis on Chinese and Thai flavours. Street 1, tel: + (855) (0)12 901 902.
Oasis Resort: The best family option in Koh Kong, with huge, modern bungalows complete with DVD players. A huge infinity swimming pool and picturesque mountain views are complemented by a full bar and restaurant. Though slightly outside of town, Oasis has a reputation for offering excellent day trips to hidden beaches, mangrove forests and local waterfalls. North west of city centre on Street 3, call for free pick-up, tel: + (855) (0)16 331 556.
