Huy took us out in a kayak to discover a cocopalm (water coconut) forest. The weather was perfect for a very relaxing trip although of course we were sitting at home while Huy was doing all the paddling.
We saw the large water coconut fruits and learnt how these palms are so important for the eco system in the area.
Starting near the river mouth we then went through a small narrow gate to get inside the calm waterway on our way to the abandoned village.
It was very muddy as we landed, there was another small boat moored which we later found was being used by two women who were collecting vegetables from their once owned vegetable plots.
The village was abandoned after many many years of flooding, when the floods came everyone had to be evacuated, houses and the villagers belongings were flood damaged but each time they returned and rebuilt their lives.
These people not wanting to lose their ancestral lands return to allow their cows to graze, tend the vegetable plots which were full of produce.
One young man decided not to leave and still remains with his dog and many geese and ducks. It must be quite lonely but apparently he loves living alone and at least there is electricity supply so he can watch tv.
This was a fascinating insight into the lives of these people and the struggles they faced but are still be able to continue to enjoy the fruits of their labour.
