The best of Cambodia

“We were picked up from the airport in Phnom Penh in the car arranged by 4 Rivers. It was a Toyota Camry, the driver was excellent, we felt safe driving through the traffic of Phnom Penh. After about 1.5 hrs we stopped for refreshments at a roadside restaurant that had the cleanest toilets ever. As we got out of the city traffic the scenery got more and more rural with great views of village life. It took us about 4.5hrs to reach the reception on the banks of the River Tatai. Our luggage was loaded on to the boat and we left straight away for the 30 minute transfer to the floating lodge. As we passed the final bend in the river the lodge came into view. What a sight!!.
We were met at the lodge by Adonis who showed us to our tent and gave us information about the lodge. The tent was well appointed and had the most amazing view of local village houses on the opposite bank. We chose the last tent on the west side of the lodge and felt at one with the river. We relaxed on the pontoon during parts of the day soaking up the sun and spent the rest of the time with our guide “”By”” (I think that is the spelling) He took us on a trip to a local fishing village and introduced us to the local people. He gave us an unforgettable experience and enabled us to get a real view of the hard lives of the fishing community and some of the environmental challenges they face now and in the future. We finished the trip by kayaking into the mangroves and By’s local knowledge made our time so special.
The following day he took us out again at dawn on a short Jungle trek. We saw some wildlife but the high lite for us was seeing the school children arriving for classes at the local school we were able to pop into the class and see the children in their lessons. Really special. The evenings were so serene the sunsets were amazing whilst swimming in the river.

At night the staff continue to impress with tasty cocktails and great food. (you choose you meals in the afternoon when one of the staff visits you at your tent). The food here is first class nice authentic Khmer cuisine with more western options for those who prefer. They also offer reasonably priced wine by the bottle or glass (yes wine in the jungle). Before dinner there is also the option to see the fireflies. All aboard the boat for a short trip down the river. Then lights out engine off as you drift slowly down stream looking for the fireflies. Really special we did it twice.

We spent 3 nights at the lodge and I must say this was the most memorable part of our time in Cambodia. All the staff were amazing and it was an honour to meet them and hear about their lives living and working in this most unspoilt part of the world.

Thanks to everyone at 4 Rivers. We wont forget any of you and will cherish our memories.

Room Tip: The tents at the end of the row are more private”