Possible no other river in the world conjures up as much magic and mystique as the mighty Mekong. The “road to Mandalay” as Kipling described it, travels through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam before escaping into the South China Sea. It flows through incredibly scenic countryside and plays host to a myriad of rare animals and fish.
As is exits the land into the South China Sea of course it splits and spreads to form the huge Mekong Delta. This is home to millions and has a rich and varied flora and Fauna. Mineral rich deposits provide essential ingredients for the surrounding countryside. Higher up, the river as it flows through Laos, flows at about 3 knots. The boat trips that ply their trade here provide an idyllic setting for tourists to relax and simply soak up the truly amazing scenic beauty of the Laotian countryside.
The Mekong is an extremely important trading route, This is obvious simply by looking at the important cities that have built up around its banks. Chiang Mai in Thailand, Vientiane and Luang Prabang in Laos, Phnom Penh in Cambodia and Saigon in Vietnam. In Cambodia of course it joins forces with the Tonlé Sap. The people who thrive around this wonderful waterway, number in their tens of millions.
Wherever it flows, people flock to the magic and mystery of this magnificent River.