Was up at 0700hrs local time, for a little walk out of town on the North today. It was pretty warm even then, and it just got hotter as the day progressed… Went to Preah Ang Chek temple, and Preah Ang Chom shrine, just by the Royal Independence Gardens. The gardens were very pleasant, and I have to say I was grateful for the shade of the trees. Also, close by is the Royal Residence, which you could easily miss if you weren’t aware of it’s presence.

Further along the road, stand the Jayavarman VII children’s hospital, run totally on money donated and funding from outside the country. The visitors center is very inspiring, and after the introductory presentation, you feel almost duty bound to help the cause. The people who envisioned this have worked tirelessly to provide free medical treatment to the children of Cambodia. I will be returning on Saturday to see a local legend. Beatocello, or Dr. Beat Rechner performs an evening cello concert, to raise both awareness and funding for the hospital.

After walking further down the road, I was turned back, as I was straying into Angkor City. On the walk back it became apparent how warm it had got. I had already used 4 liters of water! After a break at a coffee shop, I made my way back to the hotel with a slight case of prickly heat.

In the evening, when it was bearable out, went into town for dinner. A lovely Khmer curry at The Banana Leaf. A well-earned meal, while sat people-watching in the warm evening breeze whilst being occasionally propositioned by ladies of negotiable affection!

On returning to the hotel, I was heartened to see that the restaurant staff had returned from their New Years break with their families. Roll on Breakfast tomorrow!