![Worldwide, Cambodia, Song Saa Private Island, Aerial](/media/cuqj4yo4/aerial-photo-sspi-7.jpg?rxy=0.43107769423558895,0.3564466722361459&rnd=133331965616970000)
Cognoscenti of the Far East need look no further than Song Saa, Cambodia’s first genuine luxury beach resort, set on a pair of exclusive private islands amidst the sapphire blue Gulf of Thailand and reached by speedboat.
A zip line entrance sets the tone for what time here is like. It’s very much go, go, go – the type of place to push comfort zone boundaries – and that’s irrefutably welcomed. Started by Bensley and Cambodian hotelier Sokoun Chanpreda, Shinta Mani Wild is proof that conservation and luxury hospitality can work in harmony. It’s an opportunity to go beyond the usual fauna-favouring activities, centring experiences around their primary goal of saving the forest. It’s well worth taking the trouble to explore; wildlife treks obviously feature, but it’s the likes of getting involved in local communities and anti-poaching units, accompanying rangers to check camera traps, and boarding the expedition boats (also designed by Bill) to explore the waterways that leave daring duos with something far more precious to take home.
True to Bensley’s signature and ever-so-distinctive style, the ostentatious tents (15 in total) are all individually draped in delicious mahogany with a touch of vibrant colour and vintage-traveller accents. Apparently, the design was greatly influenced by Jackie Kennedy’s visit in the 60s. Split into three categories – Wild Tents, Waterfall Tents and a Two Bedroom Tent perfect for families – all of the accommodations are stilted to allow free movement of the wildlife below. And don’t worry, no trees were harmed in the making of them. Room tip: while hiking is very much encouraged, tents closer to the centre of camp can be requested to preserve precious energy.
Cognoscenti of the Far East need look no further than Song Saa, Cambodia’s first genuine luxury beach resort, set on a pair of exclusive private islands amidst the sapphire blue Gulf of Thailand and reached by speedboat.
Upon entering this private garden compound, the former guest villa of King Norodom Sihanouk, you will immediately appreciate why visiting foreign dignitaries were accommodated here.
With its languid old-world stateliness and polished elegance, this immaculately restored 1929 estate is classic Raffles at its most refined.