After enjoying our breakfast we grab a tuk tuk to the bus station. Running out of petrol the driver apologises and we walk the rest of the way. Arrived at Kampot and go to Arcadia hostel described as being just out of town. Turns out its in the middle of nowhere. It had a gym though - a lonely punchbag swinging in the breeze. We laugh and get the confused tuk tuk driver to take us back into town. We consult the guide and try the Hour Kheang Guesthouse. Family run place with 2 brothers. Prices are reasonable and we get our own rooms. We go to find a place to get laundry done. Already liking this place.
The American cowboy we met in the capital had recommended the Icecream and Pie, so we head there for a bite to eat. They make their own bread, curry pies, apple pies to lemon pies. Craig goes for the worlds largest slice of lemon pie to keep his chips, cheese and gravy company. I settle for a hotdog. All the food is outstanding and can see why it was recommended.
Watched the sunset behind the mountains whilst the swallows dived, hopefully catching all the mosquito's. Next to the hostel we could smell a barbecue which lures us into The Stumble Inn. The ribs and chicken come with a dried Kampot pepper mix with lime. Big fan of pepper and the people here are trying to get it officially recognised. Years ago all the restaurants in Paris used it and was considered the best in the world. Stronger tasting but very good.
We head across the road to the lazy cat. Meet an English guy called John. Had got attacked by police in Phnom Penh over his lost wallet. Doesn't remember any details but 2 blows to the head have left him with blood in both eyes. I give him some eye drops suggesting a visit to a doctors may be a good idea. Some Scandinavian hippies sit down and we discuss our diving plans in Cebu. They plan on finding a captain to sail them there whilst earning their keep. John explains to us that he had applied for a teaching job in Laos, but the guy who advertised it actually owned a bar. To save money he slept out the back of the bar, realising it was time to move on after a scorpion sting to the head. 500 dollars spent in 5 months. A resourceful fellow who will do what is required to extend his trip.
The mellow sounds of Bob Dylan play as the owner walks in with his new baby. We congratulate him and wish him a happy new year (chanam tomai) and he gives everyone a free beer.