Border Crossing Causes Gout Attack

I crossed back into Cambodia via the Koh Kong/Hat Lek border post which lies on the coastal side of the country.  I’d been warned that the officials over charge tourist for their visas so I was prepared.  When the border guard asked for Bhat 1000 I informed her I only had $20, the actual price of the visa.  She then said the visa costs $30.  So I showed her my previous visa which clearly indicated $20.  At this she then said “Okay, $20 and Bhat 300”.  When she saw that I only had $20 and Bhat 20 in my wallet she gave up and pasted the visa into my passport.

I then boldly asked her what the extra money was for.  She replied “Tip.”  When I said I don’t want to pay a ‘tip’ she then said “Up to you.”  Welcome to Cambodia, it’s up to you!

After checking into a hostel, with the intention of only staying one night, I befriended a German guy, Christian, and an Englishman, Kev.  The three of us hit it off well and started sharing war stories about our travels around the world.

Because I was in such good company I had a few beers… which lead to many more.  This was the start of my woes and the beginning of an all mighty gout attack.  Because I ignored the early warning signs and kept drinking for the next three days I was crippled for the next nine days.  This resulted in me being a grumpy f*@# wherever I managed to hobble to.  And hence no pictures... ok, two bad pics.