Our travel maven, Dr Iroshini Chua, takes us on another fabulous adventure.
Setting the scene:
A turquoise mirror flecked with emerald isles stretched before me as the speedboat sliced through the waves of the Gulf of Thailand toward Song Saa Private Island. 45 minutes from Sihanoukville’s port, this secluded haven in Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago appeared from the mist of blue like a secret revealed by the sea. As we neared the jetty, a line of smiling staff, our welcoming committee, greeted us with waving hands.
The story:
Australian couple Rory and Melita Hunter moved to Cambodia in 2005 to restore colonial buildings. While sailing the far-flung coastal region of Koh Rong, they acquired the island in 2006 and in 2012, the Songa Saa private island opened its doors. In 2013, The Song Saa Foundation, a non-profit organisation was established to protect the habitats of Koh Rong Archipelago along with the private island retreat’s support of its conservation efforts.
A Rustic Retreat:
Stepping into my Ocean View Suite, I was struck by its elegant simplicity. Built with reclaimed timber and driftwood, the villa exuded a rustic charm that was distinctly Cambodian. The spacious outdoor deck, complete with a dining sala, lounger and a private pool overlooked the ocean. Inside, a four-poster bed draped in soft linens faced floor-to-ceiling windows, while a minibar—cleverly designed to resemble a large vintage luggage, opened to reveal curated treats. The bathroom, with its sunken bathtub and rain shower opened out to the ocean front and felt like a sanctuary in itself.
As I lounged on the deck, sipping a chilled coconut delivered by my butler, I watched flying fish leap from the water below, their silver arcs catching the sunlight. The suite’s glass frontage revealed a kaleidoscope of reef life, part of the 200-meter protected marine reserve that Song Saa fiercely guards. This wasn’t just a room; it was a front-row seat to nature’s theatre.
Bioluminescent Nights and Conservation:
Song Saa’s crown jewel is its bioluminescent swim, a nightly spectacle that feels like diving into a galaxy. Guided by the resort’s marine biologist, I boarded a speedboat under a starlit sky, the water dark until my first splash ignited a trail of sparkling blue. Each movement—whether a gentle wave or a vigorous kick—unleashed a cascade of glowing plankton, like underwater fireworks. It was magic!
The resort, spanning Koh Ouen and Koh Bong, is a pioneer in eco-luxury. Its foundation supports local villages, funds marine protection, and ensures sustainable practices, from glass water bottles to employing local staff. I joined an Island Safari with the conservation team, learning about efforts to protect turtles and tropical fish within the protected marine reserve.
Personalized Dining with a table in the Pool:
Song Saa’s culinary philosophy is as bespoke as its service. At the Vista Overwater Restaurant, the menu blends Khmer flavours with global finesse—think fish amok with turmeric-laced curry or fresh oysters with flavoured salt. But the real magic happened when my butler arranged a private dinner, the table set in the infinity pool, its edges blurring into the ocean under the moonlight. The personalized menu, tailored to my preferences, featured grilled lobster, mango salad, and sweet Cambodian rice dumplings, each dish crafted with local, sustainable ingredients, a nod to the island’s bounty. The Driftwood Bar, with its rustic wooden beams and beachside vibe, offered casual fare like wood-fired pizzas and sundowner cocktails.
Travel Tip: Share dietary preferences with your butler before arrival for a truly customized dining experience.
Adventures and Serenity:
Song Saa balances adventure and tranquillity with effortless grace. The water sports centre offered kayaks, paddleboards, and sailing boats. I spent a morning on a fishing expedition beyond the restricted marine reserve, an ethical excursion for catch-and-release. For adrenaline seekers, motorized water sports like jet-skiing are available.
After arriving at the open-air spa reception, I was ushered into a jungle private pavilion. The spa’s menu offered everything from Khmer herbal wraps to nighttime rituals under the stars. My back massage, infused with coconut oil, melted away tension as I was immersed in a haven of calm.
A Quiet Escape with Heart:
What sets Song Saa apart is its soul. With only 24 villas, the resort feels intimate, almost like your own private island. The staff, many from nearby villages, exude a sincerity that elevates every interaction. My butler, Bong Sokrith, anticipated my every need, whether delivering fresh snacks or arranging a last-minute yoga session, without ever feeling intrusive. The island’s quiet is profound, broken only by the rustle of palm fronds and the soothing sound of breaking of waves. It’s a place to unplug and savour the rhythm of the tides.
Song Saa Lingers:
Song Saa is a philosophy where luxury that treads lightly. The bioluminescent waves, dancing fish in the horizon, a dinner table set in the pool under a canopy of stars; these are the moments linger. It’s a place where conservation the runs deep as the reefs and indulgence coexist, where almost everything feels personal, and where the ocean’s calm becomes your own. From the moment I arrived, Song Saa wasn’t just a destination—it was a love letter to nature and serenity. As I boarded the speedboat back to Sihanoukville, I knew Song Saa had redefined paradise for me.
