Yesterday, JG Black Book Sales team member, Greg Santulli, was able to get beyond the speechless effect Cambodia's Song Saa Private Island has on guests by sharing his experience about both the property itself and in discovering the rich history of Siem Reap. Today, PR Account Director Erin McKeon will lead us around the magical island through her lens:

She says...

I’ve just recently returned from Cambodia, where I had the pleasure of experiencing JG’s newest client, Song Saa Private Island. To say this private island resort encapsulates paradise is an understatement. From the luxurious two-bedroom over-the-water-villa I was fortunate to reside in, to the attentive guest service and variety of on and off-island activities, I am beyond certain that Song Saa will provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences to all guests.

Koh Rong, one of Song Saa's islands

Beyond the beauty of the island and accommodations, Song Saa promotes resort development that protects the natural environment while fulfilling the needs of local communities and the goals of investors and guests. I had the opportunity to take a boat ride over to Koh Rong, Song Saa’s neighboring island, to witness firsthand how Song Saa is working with the local village to educate them on the importance of sustainability through waste management methods, gardening and produce development. Healthcare and hygiene aid, as well as English classes, are also offered to the villagers.

Mangroves of Koh Rong

After leaving Song Saa, I headed to Kampot, a small river-side town in Southeast Cambodia. There I saw how Song Saa is supporting the redevelopment of a present-day zoo – which was formerly run-down and poorly managed – into a modern wildlife education park. I look forward to watching the progress over the next year. In Kampot I stayed at a charming river bungalow guest house, quite a departure from Song Saa Private Island, but the management were lovely and the experience was authentically Cambodian!

Island of Koh Rong

And that's a wrap!

Here's to more authentic Cambodian travel in 2013!

-the JG Black Book team