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Get lost in Cambodia

If you fancy the idea of escapism but are not prepared to rough it too much, then Bamboo Island is the ideal place. Located 10km off Sihanoukville’s busy shoreline, Ko Russei (the island’s Cambodian name) is ideal for travellers on a budget. This small but perfectly formed island has two white-sand beaches and only two or three resorts, all of which offer basic but charming beach bungalows for around US$10 (Dhs36) a night. It only takes 10 minutes to walk through the jungle across to the other side of the island, where there is a longer and even more deserted beach with just a few goats grazing nearby. And unlike the mainland beaches, there’s no one to hassle you as you relax on the sand. If you’re lucky enough to witness one of the early-morning tropical storms that occasionally pass over, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience as you seek shelter on your veranda and watch the nature gods battle it out in this unspoilt part of the world. Our recommendation: pay a visit while it remains that way.
Oliver Lyons

Get There

From UAE: Fly to Phnom Penh on China Southern (www.cs-air.com). Prices start from Dhs1,624 return, including taxes. From there, head to Capitol Guesthouse (No 14AE0, Road 182, www.capitolkh.com)
to catch a four-hour bus ride out to Sihanoukville. From there it’s a 45-minute boat journey to the island.