November 9, 2026
Cambodia was so lovely. I want to go back and show you all the days pre-eviction. We arrived late afternoon & were greeted at the Port by local performers & music, the Ministry of Tourism and were presented handmade scarf gifts.
The next day I took a 1/2 hour speed boat ferry with Sherry, Ben, Basia and Michelle to a nearby island Koh Rong Sanloem which is right next to the island of Koh Rong but it is the smaller, more tranquil island. Our resort, Island Center Point was the nicest on island and a bargain! Our rooms were 4 in a row, all looking out at the beach> They were big and roomy and the bathrooms were open air with soaking tubs and showers, all for less than $50 / night including a yummy big breakfast. We relaxed and laughed a lot by the pool with happy hour cocktails and played one of my favorite games - catch phrase. It was a lovely relaxing get away until the second night when we were all in my room listening to the a residents meeting and Rodrigo, the ship's Hotel manager came in at the tail end and told us the bad news most likely happening with the ship the next few days. We had planned to stay another night, but cautiously left the next day after breakfast to get back and start packing.
The island was a quiet little fishing village with several beach front resorts. They transported us back and forth to the boat dock on a flat bed trailer, pulled by a tractor. Reminded me of hay rides - it was late October, the right season for a hay ride back home! It added to the charm of the island. The staff were so pleasant and friendly too! Was sad to have our time cut short.
