Famous for its population of silk weavers, Silk Island, or Koh Dach in Khmer, also has a small beach on its far-north edge. There are two ways to get to either by road and ferry, or more relaxing by boat.

Once on the other island enjoy the scenery. A dusty, sandy road takes you through charming villages and past picturesque views of the river. The pace of life here is reassuringly slow. When you reach the island’s northern tip scramble down the eroded bank that leads down to the white, sandy beach. Make your way to the river’s edge, install yourself in one of the many little thatched huts that are pulled into the water and enjoy the calm. The water itself is very clean and inviting enough for a refreshing splash on a hot afternoon. Local vendors are eager enough to sell you food, fresh fruit and cold drinks – a whole chicken costs about US$10 and is cooked for you in three different ways. If you order some food, the use of a thatched hut should be thrown in for free.

change into your swimming gear. At the weekends and during public holidays it can get quite busy when families flock here. If you are not only looking for water but also for some calm, then you’d better come during the week when you will find the isolation you crave. Lazing around with a suspenseful book and a cold beer while listening to the sound of the water underneath your wooden platform, makes you forget that this is still Phnom Penh.

For tours of Phnom Penh including Koh Dach contact: info@asia-adventures.com

Edited from Asia Life (April 09)