Six Senses reopens in Cambodia and Bhutan with a renewed focus on elevated experiences

The silver lining to the pandemic has been the opportunity to rethink and reset tourism. As a priority sector in both Cambodia and Bhutan, both nations are moving away from mass tours and consumerism into rare, authentic, and meaningful experiences. By capturing the growing global trend in this direction, they aim to boost economic and environmental benefits and improve livelihoods.

Six Senses Krabey Island, Cambodia 

Post-pandemic recovery in Cambodia will rely in part on a business-enabling environment for higher-value travel and tourism. Beyond the Angkor complex and Siem Reap, Cambodia is also endowed with beautiful coastlines, important conservation areas, and a significant number of heritage and cultural sites, many of which are easily accessible from Six Senses Krabey Island. With the mainland reception just a 10-minute drive from Sihanouk International Airport, it is then a short 15-minute water transfer to the resort to enjoy cultural, wellness, sporting, and signature dining experiences.

The resort will reopen on December 2 with a renewed focus on community-based experiences to interact with locals, nature, and wildlife. Guests booking the Festive Getaway by November 30 will save 20% on the Best Flexible Rate.

The 40 spacious pool villas offer a private island hideaway feel without forgoing guestroom amenities, guest services, and a spa, which crowns the island and offers a wide range of holistic rejuvenation therapies. Days are as hands-on as guests like. A visit to the organic garden on the mainland includes a pick-your-own lunch. The Hook, Line, and Catch experience starts with an ethical fishing line in hand. A Spice Trail trip to the Kampot meanders past paddy fields and houses on stilts to an authentic pepper-infused lunch at La Plantation. Time-honoured tips can be acquired during a Khmer Cooking Class.

There is a range of villas, from the Hideaway (perfect for two) to the Ocean (elevated for the views). Groups of friends or families can stay together in the Oceanfront duplex, which sleeps six and extends over two floors to maximize privacy. Set on the west side of the island, The Beach Retreat sleeps five and, as its name suggests, not only offers a private sundeck for lounging and alfresco dining but also direct access to a private beach cove. The toughest part about this one is leaving it.

“From December to February, the slightly cooler temperatures, low humidity, and long periods of sunshine make it an ideal time to visit,” says General Manager Ateeb Shrestha. “During the dry season, you can enjoy morning yoga on the rooftop pavilion or take a spin around the island jungle gym, visit temples, go on a hike or tour, or simply relax and sunbathe during the day and enjoy our boardwalk dining or movie nights under the stars at night. The Experiences Center offers a wide range of on-island and on-water activities within the resort, plus boat excursions to the surrounding islands. Teens will love the Double-Dip Hangout, which is adjacent to the horizon-edge pool and serves house-made gelatos, and children aged 4 to 12 are kept busy at the kids’ club.”