Flowing between brooding mountains and forested cliffs, the cloudy waters of the Mekong River meander south through Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand. Travelling along stretches of the river by boat, there is little to do but immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings. The breeze is light, the sun shines for most of the year and flocking birds contrast with the green fields and bright blue sky. Beyond the river's meandering  banks, tropical forests come alive with the songs of countless birds, and the constant buzz of  animals and insects. In some parts, the river expands to become the size of a lake, it's enduring appeal gradually revealed as you turn each new bend into the next part of the voyage.

The landscape along the river changes constantly, with dramatic limestone mountains and trees clinging to the tops of giant escarpments. The river winds its way through the rolling earth and vegetation, and on a boat you feel completely removed from the modern world. Keen observers can spot a vast array of wildlife from the deck, both above and below the river's flowing waters. Giant catfish occasionally break the surface while birds of prey dive to catch their daily sustenance and creatures of all shapes and sizes scuttle down to the river bank in search of refreshment.

Modest villages cling to the banks of the Mekong, many of them little more than clusters of bamboo shacks, the homes of the fishermen and farmers. Plumes of smoke rise from cooking fires and hang above the houses, naked children splash in the river while their mothers wash their clothes and lay fish out to dry in the sun. Stopping to glimpse the life of the local population, the first thing that strikes you is their welcoming smiles. Although many of the villagers live simple lives sustaining themselves fro the land and waters, their generous nature is astounding. Celebrations are spirited, with community events such as a marriage or the arrival of a new baby, inspiring a lively party for friends and visitors alike. Bowls of food are brought to share, music fills the air and local rice whiskey is consumed in great quantities. Yet  even in excitement the Lao people remain gentle souls. Their natural hospitality and sense of calm is known across Asia and a popular phrase captures the spirit of the village and its people: “The Vietnamese grow rice, the Cambodians watch it grow, the Lao listen to it grow.”