Sihanoukville, Cambodia's New Airport Opening

Sihanoukville Airport - 2004

April 12, 2004 - Sihanoukville Airport's re-opening took place without a hitch just before the Khmer New Year's celebration. As the 48-passenger, Russian made AN-24 made a picture perfect landing and taxied to the new and very modern terminal building, the assembled guests and dignitaries made their way out to the tarmac to greet those flying down from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville for the historical event.

Prior to the landing, a ceremony was held in which the Monks blessed the airport and said prayers for the success and happiness of everyone involved. After this important event and arrival of the VIPs from Phnom Penh, another ceremony was held in the main terminal facility for guests numbering over 100.

His Excellency, Mr. Pok Sam Ell, Secretary of State for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, spoke first. He was followed by Geoff Rider, the new General Manager of Sihanoukville Airport.

Mr. Rider stated that, "The new opening of the Sokha Beach Resort (a photo gallery) last Thursday which is the first International Beach Resort in Cambodia and the opening of the airport today will put Sihanoukville on the regional and international tourist map."

Mr. Rider also indicated that he expected large numbers of travelers between Siem Reap and Sihanoukville and that "as the tourism industry in Sihanoukville expands the airport will grow with the industry". He also indicated that there was additional provisions for the passenger terminal and customs and immigration services.

He also went on to mention the importance of working closely with the Sihanoukville Tourism Forum as well as local industry such as Cambrew which is the Sihanoukville brewer and bottler of Angkor and Pepsi products.

After these comments, airport guests and staff were treated to a buffet provided by Ariston Holdings, which is the group responsible for the management, maintenance and development of the new Sihanoukville Airport as well as partners in the development of the new 9-hole golf course alongside Ochheuteal Beach, Sihanoukville's most popular beach.

Airport operations are the responsibility of Ariston Holdings with the airport itself under the control of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA). The airport's runway is 1,300 meters long and 34 meters wide and is capable of handling both general aviation and large, multi-engine, turbo-props such as the AN-24 and ATR-72. Plans are in place to expand the runway to accommodate even larger regional jet aircraft as well.

The 5 parking slots on the 275 x 90 meter tarmac in front of the very modern terminal building will hopefully soon be used to accommodate daily air operations from the capital of Phnom Penh and the resorts and temples of Siem Reap. Airport air traffic control is to be provided by Cambodia's C.A.T.S. - Cambodian Air Traffic Services both from their center in Phnom Penh as well as from the control tower located on top of the new terminal.

With the 'soft opening' of the airport in April 2004, it marks the first time since 1998 that regularly scheduled air operations and charter flights are expected to begin.

I saw Elvis in Sihanoukville!

One of the most popular destinations for both foreigners and locals in Sihanoukville is Occheaceal Beach and most will probably end up here after the 4 hour bus journey down from Phnom Penh. The roads along this route are actually quite good and depending on when you leave Phnom Penh (most commonly at either 7AM or 12:30 PM), may determine to some degree what kind of accommodations are available when you reach the beach as it has become a very popular destination for both foreigners and locals.

As a destination site for many Cambodians combined with the opening of the new Sihanoukville Airport before the Khmer New Year in April 2004 and the new international beach resort of Sokha Beach, the likelihood of the areas' growth is increasing everyday.

The beach itself is a very long, gently curving bay that sets between the new 9-hole golf course being built and the gulf waters. As of April 2004, 4 of the planned 9 holes have been completed with many new and very comfortable guest houses and villas lining the road leading down its southern flank with the Jasmine Hotel being near the beginning of the course. They are known for their friendly staff and and it is a great place to stay according to some of the locals.

I think most head down the dirt road that sets on the north side of the beach referred to as Serendipity Beach first looking for accommodations as there are some nice hangouts to drink, eat and relax around the numerous tables and shade trees.

As you head down this dirt road that many refer to as 'Serendipity', you first encounter several guest houses on the left, including Mohaohha (011-783-476 or 034-933-586) and Sea View Villa (034-935-555) which opened in February 2004. Wedged between these is the SKT Tour (Sokun Tour and Travel) company building (sothy2003mm@yahoo.com)A bit further down you will reach the beach and in this area you will find the 4-room beach bar called Uncle Bobs run by a young Swede named 'PJ' who has just got engaged to his Cambodian girlfriend. If you are in need of 'comfort food', Uncle Bobs has a pretty good pizza. Next to this place is a newly renovated and upgraded place called the Eden Bar and Guest House which is also located directly on the beach.

If you turn to your right and head further north along the beach, there are several more guest houses and lodges. Signs point you to the Ocean View and beside it, at the very end of where you can walk before the rocky point, Cloud 9.
If you turn left coming off the road, you will immediately see the Bungalow Bar and Restaurant as well as villa complex. Continuing on down the beach will lead you to the first of what literally had to be over a hundred small "beer bars" setting right along the beach.

In the evening this entire beach comes alive with the dancing glow of hundreds of candles placed on each bars many beach tables. Places like the Eden build small bonfires in large stone pits in front of their bars and have barbeques.
As you continue your long, curving stroll south along the beach, the shacks turn into longhouses and you start to notice signs indicating free beds. One such place as a PADI diving sign and is called the 'Dolphin Shack' whose previous owner has now established the new 8-room guest house called 'Ru's Place' just off Lion Circle.
Another place that is well known for its diving is Asia Divers run by Eric who is a really great guy. His number is 012-608-578. Roger is also working with Eric and his number is 012-439-301. This is also a PADI facility and they also run $15 all night party boats to the islands as well.

Where the shacks end you will find a wonderful little place called 'Teds' run by a Canadian/ American named (of course) TED and his very charming and lovely wife, Syna who is learning to sketch and color and from what I watched, quite talented.

Ted and one of the local neighbors who hangs out with him and his wife.
Ted is one heck of a nice guy who is originally from Montreal but grew up in Houston. In the evenings this place turns into quite the place for jams and laughter from the local expats. They will be opening a new Mexican restaurant soon and knowing the potency of Syna's margaritas, it should be a great time!
Trips to the local islands seem to round out the local day and evening's activities. Snake Island is known for its birds and monkeys while Koh Thas Island is famous for its fishing, birds and seaviews. Ta Kiev Island has snorkeling, coral and fishing and Russey Island has snorkeling and coconut trees. Ream Nah Para has a mountain view and a great beach.

Bokar Mountain is about 2 hours away and seems to be a stop for most staying more than a few days. It is about 10 kilometers out of Kampot and has a $5 entrance fee and for an additional $5, you can stay the night. Some of the local ex-pats take food and other items up to the Monks that live there which is greatly appreciated.
Other ex-pat haunts in town are 8-room guest house and bar owned by the former owner of the Dolphin Shack Ru's Place, Savana and the Marlin Bar owned by Richard. Ru's Place has a big screen TV and show movies as well.

Now, if you follow the above trail, you will find Elvis in Sihanoukville! Good luck and have a great time!!!

www.cambodianonline.net/articles200411.htm for photos!