On April 8, the first cruise ship to visit Cambodia since the pre-war years stopped for 24 hours at the Port of Sihanoukville, allowing passengers a brief Cambodian adventure. Most local business were caught off-guard, unaware of the plans for the cruise ship stop over. Many of the tourists stayed in Sihanoukville only briefly, traveling on to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The City of Phnom Penh has launched a new English-language website designed to provide both tourism and business information. The northwest end of Ochheuteal Beach, dubbed 'Serendipity Beach' by a local expat publican late last year, has become an instant hit.
Serendipity is the only beach with bars, restaurants and bungalows just a few meters from the water.
Five months ago there was but a single wood shack bar on the beach. The businesses and atmosphere are aimed squarely at the budget traveler. Voeung Kam Reported Open Reliable sources report that the Laos border crossing near Voeung Kam is open in both directions. The crossing has been open for more than a year but only for those exiting Cambodia. The border now appears to be open in for those entering or exiting the country.