We went shopping for the Cambodian Orphan Fund this week, and rather unusually returned with a café. Whilst the charity resists putting our children on the tourist map, we do quite happily welcome genuine visitors keen to see a proper orphanage in action. The problem therefore is, having our headquarters inside our original building, we do get frequent visitors turn up, recommended by the very noble CONcert organisation, some of the hotels and even tuk tuk drivers (unusual as I can assure you we do not pay commissions). But it’s difficult to organise when we have ‘walk ins’ we would like to give a suitable presentation and tour, but we can’t guarantee to have enough staff on the premises.

Thus we’ve always wanted a visitors centre with an in-town location, where we can arrange to show displays and presentations about our work without disturbing our children. Town centre rentals come expensive, and we do not have that kind of money, unless of course the vacancy is at the back of the noisiest bar in town. (Yes Temple Bar this does mean you! The thought of having Lynne – the worst lady boy in town – as a neighbour. Oh Dear.) Impossible to sleep in, but as for a shop front in the few hours the bar is quiet, we were very interested in making a deal. To our pleasure we have been able to come to an arrangement and look to be spending the next few days moving furniture and equipment into our new home.

For the moment we’ll use it as an office and visitors centre, and in time we harbour the idea of serving coffees and light snacks. Personally I would really enjoy a chilled late night vibe, serving something other than the dreaded Anchor Beer, a unique blend of Heineken and washing up liquid. Perhaps we could even target local musical talent and give them a venue to play original music, as Siem Reap is obsessed with cover bands. We have not agreed a name for the venture yet, and I am sure something will come to mind as we get closer to opening the cafe option. Any suggestions?

Baby Agaret has been causing us some concern this week, seeming very pale and with vomiting fits. We have taken her to the hospital, where she was admitted and stayed for four days. I’m delighted to say she’s back with us and fully responsive, alert and with a full pair of lungs.