"As the rains appear, a unique hydrological phenomenon unfolds. The water flowing into the Mekong River increases manifold and produces a reverse surge which results in massive expansion of the lake resulting in flooding of all nearby areas including the villages." ~ Lonely Planet

We ventured southeast of Siem Reap...

to the Kampong Phluk fishing village,

where a Saturday market...

was in full force,

allowing a glimpse of the daily tasks needed 

for life along the Kampong Phluk river.

Our river rambling...

took place during the dry season,

when the floodplains...

of the Tonle Sap Lake...

are enjoying the time of year...

when the stilts holding up their homes and livestock are visible.

Lonely Planet provides a view of the villages during the wet season.

Photo: Lonely Planet

Everyone is busy...

along the river...

towing and transporting all sorts of items to and from the homes...
helping with nets...

choosing fresh fruit and vegetables from the delivery boat,

or enjoying a swim...

in the water that is so much a part of their lives.

Where wildlife is plentiful.

Temples...

and other places of worship are a boat ride away
for the predominately Khmer residents of these three villages...

surrounded by mangrove forests...

where we boarded... 

one of the smaller crafts waiting patiently.

Our peaceful glide...

through the towering trees...

offered their umbrella of shade...
and cooler temperatures.
 Meanwhile...
if your are lucky enough to have a helper onboard...

like Ren Man,
even the sunny patches have shade.

Seeing our tour guide lounging in a hammock in the distance...

was the first hint that our small boat tour 
through the beautiful mangrove trees had come to an end.

But not until we had an ice-cold coconut water on board.

Remember those fresh fruit and veggies bought from the grocery boat...
well they are now headed up, up, up the stairs.
Life as a fisherman...
                   in a house on stilts...
                                          on the water...
                                                    is not easy.