The Mekong ("MAE NAM KHONG" - แม่น้ำ่โขง) is one of the world biggest river. Its source starts from Tibet in China and then it flows through Myanmar (ex Burma), Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.
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In "ISAN" area, the Mekong is the natural
border between Laos and Thailand.
During the hot and dry season, the Mekong level can be very low.
In some locations, it is even possible to cross the river and go from
Thailand to Laos by walking on sand islets.
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| The Mekong |
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Crossing the Mekong is forbidden, especially for foreigners. They shall use the three official check points in "ISAN" area, i.e. Nong Khai, Mukdahan, Chong Mek. It is same for Thai people. But often some Thai people and Laotian people cross the Mekong by boat in order to smuggle goods.
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During the hot and dry season, the Mekong river becomes as popular as
the South beaches without overpopulation and salty water.
Swimmers shall beware the strong stream. Each year fatal drowning accidents
still happen.
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| The Mekong |
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People living close to Mekong river, especially in "ISAN" area have a strong belief in the "PHAJANAK" (พยานาค). Some Thai and Laotian people avoid swimming in Mekong river due to the "PHAJANAK" threat. According to tales and legends, the "PHAJANAK" is a snake, which is living in the Mekong river. It grabs the swimmers legs and bring them under water to be used like servants.
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After the rainy season, the mekong level starts to decrease.
The Mekong shores are then covered with fertile alluvium. Thai and Laotian
people cultivate vegetables, fruits.
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| The Mekong |
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Thai people also breed fishes in paddocks set in Mekong river. Then those fishes are sold in Thai or Laotian markets.
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During the hot and dry season, the Mekong level is very low. The
landscape is then fabulous for photographers.
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| The Mekong |
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In many Thai town such as Sri Chiang Mai, Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom, the Mekong shores have been upgraded with pavements. It allows visitors and local people to enjoy the view. Many guesthouses or hotel in "ISAN" area also offer sunset trips on the Mekong river.
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During the rainy season, the Mekong level is at its peak.
Its stream is really impressive.
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| The Mekong |
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Boat races happen after the end of the rain season. After "WAN OOK PHANSA" (วันออกพรรษา - day which symbolises the end of rain retreat), there are many competitions in "ISAN" area. The boat contains more than 50 persons. The boat has an impressive prow decorated with a garland for the luck. Thai people bet money on boats. Each competition is between two boats. Each boat represents one temple.
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The sand islets appears during dry season. Following a treaty between Laos and
Thailand, they belong to Laos. Boats shall beware hidden islets just close to
the Mekong surface.
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| The Mekong |
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| "Mekong" movie | Click on the projector |
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to start the movie. |
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