Monkey Island: whispers of its uniqueness had driven us to seek it out.
We were confused at first though, as we discovered that Monkey Island was not actually an island, but was a guesthouse (bungalows) on a different island – Koh Rong.
Regardless, we set our path towards it, travelling south through Laos and Cambodia till we reached our destination. As we got closer to our target, knowing its reputation in the backpacking community, we decided to book our bungalow online. This is when we discovered online bookings were processed two weeks in advance. Devastated!
Frustrated by this hurdle, we considered showing up on the day. It was risky, especially as we were only one overnight bus and ferry ride away. But we were determined, my friend found the address of the Siem Reap Monkey Island offices, one of several scattered throughout Cambodia. She dropped in and successfully booked us a bungalow and ferry to the island. Our determination had paid off
For $25US we had a three bed bungalow right on the beachfront, privacy provided by a few trees in the sand, one with a swing overlooking the water. To live on the beachfront we had to sacrifice an ensuite bathroom – worth it in our minds, especially as the shower and toilet facilities were well kept and only a short walk away.
For those not game to go without your own bathroom, a four-bed bungalow comes with ensuite and only a small jump in price to $40. But take note, these are located in the second row of bungalows bordering the jungle, not the beach.
Monkey Island is set on the beach, up the sand from the main strip and is almost a separate island and community. Even though the place was booked out, we barely saw any other guests, other than our own travel family.
The bungalows were basic, but perfect for us, exactly what we had hoped for: the perfect beach shack made out of natural products, mosquito nets to keep the bloodsuckers away and a large steel lockable chest for valuables and food (keeps the islands rodents from gnawing on your food and toiletries).
With electricity on the island powered by generators, the bungalows have a single light and fan in the evenings after 6pm. This finally explained the two week in advance online booking system; it also keeps a very select group of dedicated travellers in residence, those who are long term and live to travel, not vacationers.
Electricity to charge devices was available in the bar after 10am. In addition to electricity, the bar provided some of the best WIFI on the island, as well as amazing food and drinks, and a beach volleyball court set up out the front for all to join.
As porch monkeys, we spent hours swinging in our hammocks, day and night. Only leaving to swim, dance and explore the bountiful island.
Weeks passed, until finally we found the courage to leave paradise in search of Arcadia.
All opinions are subjective to the writers personal travel experience. The writer travelled at her own expense.