A different life on the Mekong

We're now at Siem Reap, further up the Mekong and near the Tonle Sap lake. This afternoon we visited a floating village which was fascinating.

The people here are self sufficient in that they have everything they need in their community. They move their village around according to the season and the level of water in the lake.

There are mobile stores, a petrol filling station, basketball court, pool hall, a school and a police station in the community, alongside dozens and dozens of houseboats.

There's a Catholic church for those who wish to attend Mass

And the farmer can still keep his pigs happy in a floating pigsty

Not too sure about the sanitary conditions, however, though our guide tells us that all homes are registered and the villagers still have their taxes to pay. There's no escape from that.

Well, Maggie said in a recent comment that she used to bathe in the water as a child, but I don't think I'd like to join her in this water.

Out in the lake it's more peaceful, though the drink sellers still buzz alongside and offer their wares. Persistence sometimes pays off.