Life in this region of Cambodia pulses to the flow of the Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake and river system in SE Asia. The Tonle Sap acts as a life giving artery supporting approximately 3 million people, its seasonal floods provide spawning grounds for fish and its rich silt deposits fertilize rice fields. Twice a year, this great river reverses its flow attracting upwards to a million Cambodians who gather on it's mossy banks to celebrate the Water Festival. Historically, this 3 day celebration held at the end of November, featured colorful boat races, the largest boats measuring over 100 feet and crewed with up to 80 oarsmen. This year, however, the great river was quiet as all boat races were cancelled to honor the passing of the king's father. Instead, Khmer families flocked to the beach to relax in the sun and eat fresh seafood while their children's laughter rang from the surf.
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