The once iconic Otres Beach was where expats, travellers and Cambodians headed for a relaxing time on a laidback stretch of sand. The beach comprised a rocky road that flanked the shores, dotted with guesthouses, beach bungalows, bars and eateries.

However, those days have disappeared. Several years ago, huge Chinese investment was ploughed into the coastal town of Sihanoukville. Casinos, hotels and condos began to sprout across the city, with a beautification masterplan rolled out for the surrounding beaches.

This led to the demise of Otres and the surrounding area, with all of the vendors closed and bulldozed to pave the way for what is slated to be several five-star hotels. Currently, all that stands is a lonely strip of sand that sits next to a major new road.

[caption id="attachment_37976" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Otres near Sihanoukville[/caption]