Battambang

What a first night here! Went looking for a place to eat - a lot fewer than Siem Reap - the main criterion being a jug of cheap beer. Found a place early and said we'd be back, not sure they believed us. Turned up with a girl we'd met on the boat to find lots already there and all big tables booked for a party. They dug out an extra table for us and we ordered food and beer. Then the big party arrived and got going. We got dragged onto the dance floor and surrounded by Cambodians. Turned out they were the National Centre for Disabled Persons on their annual retreat. Got introduced to the big boss and had a very interesting conversation. Everyone very friendly, and 'honoured' by our presence, apparently. The only europeans in the place.

Spent today being tourists first on the "bamboo railway" that locals used to use between trains on the main-line. Because they had to get out of the way of trains, the bamboo carriages are kit-form: two axles, a flat bed and the motor (picture). Now just a tourist trip, you still have to dismantle your carriage when you meet someone coming the other way. Real appropriate technology.

Then to a temple up about 350 steps, then to a cave where the Khmer Rouge threw over 10,000 people to their deaths.
Very sad.

Lazy day today, main event was buying our bus tickets back to Siem Reap for Debbie's birthday (3.5$ each for 180km). Wandered around different places looking at older French-style buildings, stopped in a temple grounds to read our books in the shade and approached by a monk who wanted to practise his English. Over an hour later... Another temple after lunch, again more English practice. Quite enjoy it really - a small contribution.

Current budget is 10$ for a room with en suite, 5$ breakfast, 5$ lunch, 10$ dinner and drinks (for the two of us). It's the tourist bits that add up.

Discovered the Battambang BBQ & Buffet - all you can eat for 4$. We did the best we could (other pic).