When I read about the magical Island of Song Saa, I felt it was a place for the Boileau’s to rest and recuperate after quite a busy 12 months. I was not sure what to expect from this Cambodian Island, a dot in the Gulf of Thailand, but I knew it would suit our needs. R & R and time together.
We were given a taste of what to expect when we boarded the private speed boat, fitted out in splendid white leather, and sped towards our Island. Drinks were offered as we watched the mainland disappear. It was a 45-minute transfer that splashed through waves and wove it's magic through the turquoise water to our destination.
I could almost hear Tatu calling out “Ze boat, Ze Boat” as we arrived at the jetty and were helped ashore by the staff. Mr Rourke was not there to greet us in his white linen suit, but Rory and Melita welcomed us to their island home, offering a nice chilled cocktail as we gathered under the pergola. They were simply dressed and without shoes, we could see why this was the place to unwind. They guided us to our villa explaining the idea behind their vision. Song Saa was created with sustainability in mind. The buildings are built from local materials, using local labour, local art and the Cambodian charm
Opening the door to our villa we were greeted by an incredible view. It opened to 200 Square Meters of oceanfront living. We had our own private paradise with a plunge pool, sand, day beds, beach umbrellas…everything you need for a relaxing swim. Once they had bid us farewell, we were quickly in the pool. It was so refreshing. Ken was impressed that with little effort he could almost reach the mini bar for a beer as we sat and watched the water sparkling. Song Saa is fully inclusive so within reason, everything is included, even when I mentioned I had forgotten my sunscreen, a bottle miraculously appeared
As much as we would have loved to stay and laze around the pool, mid-afternoon had us out and exploring, shoeless of course. There are 27 villas on the island, but as we wandered we didn’t see a soul. During our exploration, we came upon “Driftwood” the place for more casual dining and relaxing. There were big comfy chairs to relax into and watch the fishing boats sail by. One night I am sure we could grab a pizza and settle in. Not tonight though, I wanted to try the Vista Restaurant, the main restaurant on the island.
We returned to our “shack” showered and were at the Restaurant and Bar in plenty of time for sunset. You could say sunset was early, but in fact, Song Saa has its own time. The clocks are set forward an hour to allow guests to catch the sunrise at a more decent hour, and prepare for sunset without the rush!
The Vista Restaurant and Bar sit over the water, accessed by a wooden walkway that is romantically lit so as to show you the way home. It was magnificent to sit back with a wine in my hand and watch the sun go down. Not a breath of air, but certainly not muggy.
I could now write about the incredible food, but from my notes so far, that would be a given. A beautiful 3-course dinner with fresh local food and ingredients. Instead, I need to mention the unmentionable….. The toilet! Imagine if you will, seated within the 4 walls, but one is floor-to-ceiling glass. As you sit and consider the brevity of life, you are looking out to the ocean, boats sailing by, stars twinkling, schools of colourful fish gathering and no one can see you. A strange sense of freedom.
We had a fabulous 4 nights at this incredible place. There were massages, walks, swims, a sunset cruise and dinner at a different spot every night. One time at the point, just the 2 of us overlooking the water and our own waiter. Another time in the pool with our feet in the water, and of course we managed our pizza.
This is a place I would love to come back to for total relaxation. Shoes may be optional around the island, but with the privacy of your own villa, clothes are optional within.
