The Most Romantic Spots to Propose in Cambodia

For the idyllic tropical island proposal, Song Saa has got it covered. The country’s first and only luxury island – until mid-2017 when another two are slated to open – Song Saa is spread across two remote islands off the Koh Rong Archipelago. Of course, they come with a price tag ($1,000 a night) but the sumptuous accommodation, stunning views and special moments galore, mean that it’s well worth the expense to secure the dream proposal that will be the envy of all your friends.

Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the dream backdrop to proposal photos, although the ever-growing crowds intruding on that perfect moment can be a nuisance. This makes the tourist hot spots of Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm a no go. But fear not, because there are still various temples that remain off the tourist trail. Srah Srang, or the Royal Bath, is a large boray (reservoir) – beautiful at sunset – found at the east entrance of the lesser known Banteay Kdei, and is home to several stone piers that jut into the water, offering the perfect spot to propose.

If you’re the kind of couple who like to get off the beaten track and sample real rural Cambodia, then Kratie’s palm-studded emerald paddies complete with buffaloes grazing in twinkling pools of water is the perfect place to pop the question. Pack a picnic and bottle of bubbly (pre-bought in Phnom Penh) and take a river cruise down the Mekong at sunset. You might even get lucky and spot a few of the endangered freshwater Irrawaddy dolphin that swim in the area.

This wild, sparsely populated area of Cambodia is another one away from the tourist trail. Dotted with rolling hills, jungles, waterfalls and valleys, it is home to some of the country’s most rare and endangered wildlife, including leopards, water buffalo and elephants. Homestays are available throughout the province, mostly run by bunongs, the minority group who predominantly inhabit the area. For a more unique proposal why not seek their help in arranging a bunong themed way to pop the question?

Romance may not naturally come coupled with the dusty Cambodian capital but there are plenty of special spots to get the romantic juices flowing. Eclipse skybar, which sits on the 24th floor of Phnom Penh Tower, is the highest spot in the city and offers 360-degree views of the sprawling capital below. While it does get crowded at sunset, there are private booths boasting the best views, that can be reserved for free, with staff happy to help arrange that special moment. Finish it off with a visit to Malis (Norodom Boulevard), the capital’s finest Cambodian restaurant owned by revered chef Luu Meng.