Long Set Resort Cambodia: Paradise Found? (Your Unforgettable Escape Awaits!)
Long Set Resort Cambodia: Paradise Found? (My Unforgettable Escape…Almost!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea (infused with a hint of lemongrass, perhaps?) on Long Set Resort Cambodia. "Paradise Found?" They say. Well, let's just say it's more like "Paradise Adjacent," with a few delightful detours along the way. And honestly? That's what makes it so damn… well, interesting.
First off, let's talk about getting there. Accessibility is… well, it's Cambodia. The roads can be a bit of a rodeo, so anyone with mobility issues should double-check logistics. They do have a car park [free of charge] and offer airport transfer, which is a godsend after a long flight. Taxi service is readily available, but I’d recommend arranging a transfer directly with the resort for a smoother experience.
Accessibility WITHIN the resort itself? Things get a bit better. I didn't see any glaring issues, and they boast Facilities for disabled guests, which gives me hope. I didn't personally vet it extensively, so best contact them directly to confirm! They do have an elevator, which is a MAJOR plus.
Internet Access: Ah, the modern-day necessity. Their claims of "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" were mostly true. The signal was decent in my room, but I did have a few heart-stopping moments when it crapped out during a VERY important Zoom call (okay, it was just a cat video, but STILL!). They also have Internet [LAN] if you're old-school (or need a rock-solid connection). Wi-Fi in public areas was fine, but let's be real, you're not coming here to stare at your phone all day, are you?
(Let's just say you should probably bring your own portable router with your own sim card, as well as a power bank, just in case)
Things to Do and Ways to Relax: This is where Long Set truly shines, or at least, attempts to. The swimming pool [outdoor] is gorgeous, with a Pool with a view. Perfect for watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand (more on those cocktails later). They also have a Fitness center (I peeked in, let's just say I saw a treadmill…and that's about it, but they had a gym/fitness area so I can't complain), a sauna, Spa, and Spa/sauna, plus a Massage. And trust me, after a day of exploring Angkor Wat, a massage is non-negotiable.
The Spa Experience (A Moment of Bliss…and a Few Hiccups): This is where my inner diva came out (and by diva, I mean the part of me that REALLY needed a massage). I booked a body scrub and a massage. The body scrub was…intense. Like, "are-they-trying-to-exfoliate-my-soul?" intense. But in a good way! My skin felt amazing afterwards. The massage was…ahhhhh. Pure, unadulterated bliss. Until, and I swear this is true, the masseuse’s phone rang. Twice. Mid-massage. Talk about a mood killer! But I digress. Despite the phone interruptions, it was still a truly heavenly experience. Definitely recommend, just maybe bring earplugs.
Cleanliness and Safety: They seem to be taking COVID precautions seriously, which is definitely a plus. Lots of Hand sanitizer everywhere, Staff trained in safety protocol, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Room sanitization between stays. I opted for the Room sanitization opt-out available since I'm paranoid about anyone touching my belongings - the usual suspects. I didn't experience anything unsanitary, so that's a win! I did appreciate them providing things like Hand sanitizer, but it felt a little like overkill, I'm used to being a germaphobe. I just have my own in my bag!
They also have a Doctor/nurse on call, Cashless payment service, and even First aid kit. I didn't need any of those, thank goodness!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Okay, food is crucial. They have Restaurants! Hooray! The Asian cuisine in restaurant was fantastic, and I loved the Asian breakfast. The International cuisine in restaurant was… well, it was there. The breakfast [buffet] had the usual suspects (eggs, bacon etc.), but I was thrilled to find a really well-stocked Coffee/tea in restaurant, which is a must for the morning.
They have a Poolside bar; a Snackbar, and Desserts in restaurant and the Bottle of water provided in the rooms was a nice touch. I sampled quite a few of the Happy hour cocktails and had Soup in restaurant, and I was never disappointed. I didn’t try the Vegetarian restaurant, so no comment to make here.
The Food Fiascos (and the Unexpected Delights): Okay, honest moment. I ordered room service one night (because, vacation) and got the wrong order. Twice. The staff was incredibly apologetic and comped the meal, which was a nice gesture. They also have Breakfast takeaway service which is a godsend for early morning adventures! The staff was so accommodating, so despite the minor hiccups, I was happy!
Services and Conveniences: This is where Long Set really tries to spoil you. Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Laundry service, Dry cleaning, Luggage storage, the works! They even have Air conditioning in public area (essential!), Air conditioning, and Wi-Fi for special events (if you’re planning a wedding, I guess?).
The "Extras" that Make You Feel Like a VIP: They have a Gift/souvenir shop (I snagged a cute little elephant), Invoice provided (for expense reports, yay!), and a Meeting/banquet facilities, and Meetings (in case you're mixing business with pleasure). I was impressed by the Elevator.
They also have a Safe dining setup with Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, which is important! They have a Convenience store, Currency exchange, Babysitting service, for the kids, Baby/child friendly, plus Family/child friendly facilities. They also have a Smoking area.
For the Kids: Didn't travel with any wee ones, but it seemed pretty family-friendly, with Babysitting service and Kids meal options. I've seen more kid-specific amenities, but it's definitely not a bad choice if you are travelling with children.
Rooms - The Nitty Gritty: My room? Delightful (mostly). Air conditioning was a lifesaver. Free bottled water always a bonus, a Refrigerator to keep the beers cold, and a Coffee/tea maker for my morning fix (a must-have!). Complimentary tea was a plus. The Desk, Internet access – wireless, Alarm clock, and Bathroom phone were all working properly. The Seating area and Sofa were very comfortable.
The minor annoyances? The Blackout curtains could be better, and the lighting in the bathroom was a bit dim. But hey, nobody's perfect (except, maybe, the masseuse… before the phone rang, anyway). They also have Additional toilet, which is always a good idea when you are travelling with a friend!
Getting Around: They arrange Airport transfer, and offer Car park [free of charge], which is convenient. They offer Bicycle parking and Car park [on-site].
The Verdict?
Long Set Resort is a solid choice. It's not perfect. Nothing ever is. But it has heart. It has charm. And it definitely has the potential to be an unforgettable escape.
My Anecdote: I was there during a torrential downpour, and the staff hustled to move everyone from the outdoor restaurant to a sheltered area without missing a beat. Little gestures like that really made the difference.
The Quirks: The slightly wonky Wi-Fi. The occasional food mix-up. The phone-ringing massacre during my massage. But these imperfections are part of the experience. They add character. They make Long Set… well, human.
Wrapping it all up, Here is the Offer:
Tired of the Same Old Vacation? Escape to Paradise…Almost at Long Set Resort, Cambodia!
Here's what awaits you:
Stunning Pools and Views: Wake up to breathtaking vistas and take a dip in our inviting outdoor pool, perfect for soaking up the sun and unwinding.
Blissful Relaxation: Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, from soothing massages to invigorating body scrubs, for the ultimate escape.
Delicious Dining: Savor the flavors of Asia and the world with our diverse culinary offerings. From hearty breakfasts to poolside snacks and evening cocktails, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Comfort and Convenience: Enjoy spacious, well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, and impeccable service that caters to your every need.
Alright, buckle up, buttercups. Because this isn't your sanitized, perfectly-lined-up travel brochure. This is my ACTUAL attempt to conquer Long Set Resort, Cambodia. Expect meltdowns, mosquito bites, and the sheer exhilaration of accidentally ordering something that tastes suspiciously like fish-flavored air freshener. Here we go…
Long Set Resort: A Hot Mess of Paradise (My Itinerary, Subject to Change & Complete Chaos)
Day 1: Arrival & "Is This Legit?" Vibes
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrive at Sihanoukville Airport (KOS). Pray to the travel gods my luggage makes it. (My biggest fear, honestly.) Settle in a Tuk-tuk (the most vibrant, rickety beast you've ever seen) for a thrilling, potentially-life-altering ride to Long Set. (The drive? Well, let's just say it gives you a solid primer on Cambodian driving. Hold on tight!)
- Midday (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Check into my bungalow at Long Set. The website photos are… optimistic. Let's see how the reality stacks up. Initial Impression: "Okay, this is charming… charmingly rustic." Find the beach. Gawk at the turquoise water. Take about a million photos. Feel that initial burst of pure, unadulterated, "I'm on vacation, baby!" joy.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Beach nap attempt number one. Fail spectacularly thanks to the relentless sun and the incessant chatter of… everything. Start to question my life choices. Am I cut out for this? Probably not. But I'm here, dammit!
- Evening (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Sunset drinks at the resort bar. Order a cocktail that sounds like it’s made of actual sunshine (it probably isn’t). People-watch. Observe the local dogs. Wonder if they understand how good they have it lounging on the beach all day. Start journaling, hoping to capture the magic before the jet lag completely fries my brain.
- Night (7:00 PM - late): Dinner at the resort restaurant. The menu is in English, which is a small victory. But the waiter seems to speak only a few words, so I end up pointing at something that looks vaguely familiar. Pray it isn't deep-fried tarantula (seriously, it's a thing in Cambodia). Post-dinner: attempt to sit on the beach to enjoy the stars. Gets devoured by mosquitos. Retreat to my bungalow, defeated but slightly sunburned.
Day 2: Turtle Island & the Great Snorkel Fail
Morning (8:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Groggily emerge from my bungalow, convinced I've been bitten by something that's now planning world domination (that mosquito bite itches!). Breakfast. Attempt to eat a banana. A chicken eyes me from a distance.
(9:00 AM - 5:00 PM): This is where it gets a bit messy… a whole day trip to Turtle Island.
- * The Boat Trip: The boat is tiny and I may or may not have felt a slight wave of panic at the start of the journey. The sea is choppy. The engine sputters. The spray is salty, but the views… oh my god, the views. The pure, untamed beauty of the islands starts to erase some of the earlier frustrations.
- * Snorkeling Adventure (Emphasis on FAILURE): The snorkel mask fogs up. Constantly. I swallow half the ocean. See precisely ZERO turtles. Just coral. And lots of water. I get a little seasick. But hey, I'm surrounded by turquoise water, and I'm alive. This could be worse.
- * Beach Time: The beach on Turtle Island is picture-perfect. I find a rock. Sit on it. Stare at the water. Just be. Realize for the first time that I might, just might, be able to chill out.
- * Lunch: Back on the boat. Lunch is included (fingers crossed I don't hate it). I’m pleasantly surprised by the deliciousness of the local dishes, especially the curries.
- * The Return: The journey back is much smoother… but my skin is burning. The spray is hitting me right in the face. It's a chaotic, beautiful, frustrating, and ultimately, soul-enriching experience.
Evening (6:00 PM - 10:00PM): Back at the resort. Find a quiet spot to reflect on the day's adventures. Dinner. I order something new - a chicken curry that is absolutely divine. This is the kind of experience that justifies the plane ticket. Stargazing (attempt two). Fall asleep to the sound of the waves crashing.
Day 3: Long Set Lounging & The Great Fried Rice Confrontation
- Morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Wake up. Mosquito bites? Check. Sunburn? Double Check. But, also, that feeling of peacefulness. That's worth it. Breakfast. I try to be adventurous and order a new drink, but I secretly miss my sunshine cocktail.
- Late Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Beach day. Find a sunbed (miraculously, there’s an empty one!). Read a book. Watch the waves. Actually relax. This is what vacation is supposed to be, right?
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Lunch at a beachside restaurant. I swear, every time I order fried rice, it tastes different. Some are amazing, some are… not. Today's batch falls decidedly into the "meh" category. Consider staging a protest. Decide against it. I'm on holiday, after all.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Hammock time. Attempt to nap. Fail. Again. The call of the ocean is too strong. I get up and walk the beach. Wonder if I can live here forever. Probably not. But the thought is nice.
- Evening (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Sunset drinks, this time with a book. Actually finish a chapter. Small victories.
- Night (7:00 PM - Late): Farewell dinner at the resort. Try to order the curry one last time. Actually get it! Talk to the staff. Discover the local stories. It helps to hear how they live. Spend my last hour on the beach, reflecting on the trip.
Day 4: Departure & The Post-Vacation Blues
- Morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Pack (the art of packing is beyond me). Last-minute photo session. Say goodbye to the beach. Heartbroken in the best way.
- Late Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Transfer to Sihanoukville Airport. Another Tuk-tuk ride. Try not to get too sentimental.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - onwards): Flight home. Already planning my return. Start the post-vacation blues. Begin to edit photos.
Notes, Ramblings & Utterly Honest Observations:
- The Mosquitos: They're relentless. Bring ALL the repellent. And maybe a hazmat suit.
- The Food: Hit or miss. Be willing to experiment. Embrace the "mystery meat."
- The People: The Cambodian people are incredibly kind and welcoming. Smile! Learn a few basic phrases. It goes a long way.
- The Pace: Slow down. Embrace the "island time" mentality. Things might not always go as planned. That's part of the charm.
- My Overall Feeling: Exhausted - in the best way. Grateful. I'm happy to be back home, yet I feel a huge sense of accomplishment. And I can't wait to go back.
So, there you have it. My imperfect, glorious, and slightly messy itinerary for Long Set Resort. Feel free to steal it, adapt it, or completely ignore it. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure, your sense of humor, and your willingness to embrace the chaos. You're gonna need it. And you'll love it.
Escape to Paradise: Chiang Khan's Hidden Camp Awaits!
Long Set Resort Cambodia: Paradise Found? (My Brain's Still Debating...)
Okay, spill the beans – Is Long Set *really* a "paradise found" situation? The website's a little... optimistic.
Alright, alright, hold your horses. "Paradise Found?" Let's just say Long Set is... *complicated*. It's not an instant, airbrushed Instagram filter life. It felt more like stumbling into a beautifully messy watercolor painting than a perfectly polished photo. There were breathtaking moments, like, REALLY breathtaking, sunsets that turned the sky into a fiery opera. Then there were… moments. Like the time the air conditioning in my bungalow decided to stage a protest at 3 AM, and I woke up wrestling with a rogue mosquito the size of a small bird. Paradise? Parts of it, yeah. Perfect? Absolutely not. And that's okay, actually. Perfection's boring, right?
What's the vibe like? Is it all honeymoon couples and yoga retreats? 'Cause I might spontaneously combust if I'm stuck with that.
Phew! Good question. Nope! Thank god. While there were definitely some loved-up duos wandering around holding hands (eye roll, but good for them!), the vibe was surprisingly diverse. I saw backpackers, solo travelers like myself (huzzah!), families with kids who were *loving* the beach (and, let's be honest, probably a little bit annoying – sorry, kids!), and some older couples who looked like they'd seen a few things in their life (and maybe had a couple of margaritas judging by their laughter). It’s chill. Seriously relaxed. Think flip-flops, loose clothing, and a general sense of "who cares about the clock?" Which, honestly, is exactly what I desperately needed after a particularly brutal year at the office. The most "yoga retreat" thing I saw was a dude practicing tai chi on the beach at sunrise – which, while a bit much for me at 6:00 AM, was undeniably Zen.
The bungalows – are they actually rustic-chic, or just "rustic-and-leaking"? Be honest, please.
Okay, this is where it gets *real*. The bungalows are… charming. Let's go with charming. Expect exposed beams, mosquito nets that are, well, *mostly* effective (see: the previously mentioned mosquito invasion), and the distinct aroma of… well, nature. Mine, which I'll admit, I paid extra for the beach fronting views, was lovely! But I'm not going to lie, it wasn't perfect. Let's just say there were a few minor… *quirks*. Like the aforementioned AC revolt. And the occasional…visitor. A gecko or two. A spider or two. (I am a wimp with spiders. Seriously, I screamed. My neighbor probably thought I was dying.) But honestly? They added to the charm. Sort of. Okay, *some* of the charm. You're not getting a five-star hotel experience. You're getting something more authentic. Something more… *real*. (And probably better than I'm making it sound, I'm just very dramatic.)
Food, glorious food! What's the grub like? Is it all bland tourist fare? Are they serving actual Cambodian food, or what?
The food… oh, the food! This is where Long Set *really* shines. Forget the generic tourist menus, my friend. They serve fantastic Cambodian food. I’m talking fresh seafood grilled on the beach, fragrant curries that'll make you weep with joy (in a good way), and the best fresh fruit I've ever tasted in my life (I'm serious, get the pineapple). There are a few Western options, of course, but trust me, you're there for the local cuisine. The staff, bless their hearts, are happy to walk you through the menu if you're feeling adventurous. Try the Amok! You won't regret it. I’m seriously still dreaming about it. (Side note: pack some Immodium. Just in case. You know… just in case.)
Beyond the beach, what is there to do? I'm not one for sitting still, you know?
Okay, so you're not a sunbather? Me neither! Good news: there’s plenty to do beyond lounging. Obviously, you have the beach, which is gorgeous. Seriously, the sand is like…fine white powder. But! You can go snorkeling (saw some amazing fish!), kayaking (I capsized, but it was hilarious!), rent a scooter and explore the island (careful! The roads aren't exactly smooth), take a boat trip to other islands (definitely do this!), or just wander around the local village. I spent an entire afternoon just watching the fishermen come in, trying (and failing) to learn some Khmer phrases, and generally soaking up the local vibes. It's about embracing the slow pace.
Tell me about the staff. Are they friendly? Because a grumpy staff can ruin everything.
Friendly? Oh my god, yes. The staff are the absolute highlight of Long Set. Seriously, they're amazing. They're genuinely kind, helpful, and always smiling. They go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. I swear, the woman who cleaned my bungalow (bless her, she had to deal with my spider screams) always greeted me with a smile that could light up the entire island. They really made the whole experience. They're not just there to do a job; they care. I was really feeling a bit blue one day (missed my dog), and one of the waiters noticed, and gave me a free beer and a sympathetic ear. It’s these little moments, you know? These small touches that make a place truly special. I felt genuinely nurtured, which is rare when you're traveling.
The WiFi. Obviously, it's crucial. (I’m a millennial, don’t judge). Is it terrible? Is it usable? Is it non-existent?
Okay, here’s the truth about the WiFi: it's… patchy. Don't go expecting lightning-fast speeds. It's usable for checking emails and sending the occasional message, but don't plan on streaming movies or uploading your entire vacation album to Instagram at once. Honestly, that’s probably a good thing. It forces you to disconnect, to be present. (And, you know, maybe actually *look* at those glorious sunrises instead of just photographing them). There are WiFi hotspots, so you can get a connection, and it always worked for me, but be prepared for it to cut out occasionally. Embrace the digital detox. You might even feel better for it. (Probably won't, but just maybe…)
