H

uman remains were discovered at the end of the last dry season on the island

West Mebon, in the middle of the Western Baray. This season, the FAO is leading an

excavation along with a team of French archaeologists. Ten 3,000 year-old skeletons

have been found, including one child. To visit the site, catch a boat from the middle

entrance of the Western Baray ($5), but be quick becuase the dig will be finishing

very shortly due to impending rain.

*** The 7th Paradise, a guesthouse located on National Highway 6 just 20 minutes

west of the center of town, was generally best known for the free use of its swimming

pool. But in recent months its full moon parties have been the talk of the town.

It's not quite like those at Koh Pha-ngan in Thailand, but the place has a nice chilled

atmosphere perfect for unwinding. The guesthouse provides free tuk-tuk transportation

to and from the party on the night; just wait outside the Red Piano for a free lift.

Next full moon is June 21.

*** Abacus is a stylish French-owned restaurant/bar located on Oum Khun Street. Dine

in the tropical garden setting and choose either Asian or Western cuisine from a

blackboard menu, then adjourn to the comfortable lounge area for an after dinner

drink of homemade spicy rum ($2 a glass). Mains range from $6-$12. The accompanying

vegetables are delicious! Open every day from 11 a.m. until late. Resident Oscar,

the largest, shaggiest, black dog in Siem Reap, will give you a warm welcome as you

walk through the door.

*** With the rains coming, watch out for snakes. The venomous, small, whip-like green

snakes are coming from out of the woodwork, so be very careful on any walks into

the countryside.

***Norwegian-owned Earthwalkers guesthouse, located just off National Highway 6,

has a great atmosphere and friendly staff. It was rated number one in Siem Reap by

hostelworld.com. The guesthouse also promotes charity work and gives special rates

to volunteer workers. They have rooms with air-con or fan, rooms for families, and

dorms for the budget traveler. They also have free pick-up service from the airport

and bus station. Just ring Julien on 012-713-961.

Slices of Siem Reap is a regular column that aims to provide information on happenings

and what to do in the Siem Reap area. If you have something to add, email Michael

Hayes at [email protected]