Today started early as preparations got underway for the annual New Year boat race festivities. Yesterday in the town stall holders started erecting makeshift stalls along the Main Street, but by seven this morning activity was well underway to turn the town into an entertainment mecca for an influx of people from neighbouring towns and villages. Yesterday we managed to secure a room with a balcony overlooking the river so we ordered a supply of beer and settled down to watch people arriving by the boat load. As nine o'clock approached the fever pitch was building, and the last few of the 28 teams finished their practice. The loudspeaker kicked into action, competing with music from huge music speakers brought along by the various family groups intent on a good day. New hats and kitchen pans were bought from the many stalls by women of all ages who'd come to town for this annual party. Helium balloons bobbed above the heads of the small children, occasionally parting company and heading off into the clouds, and a roaring trade was carried out in water guns which were eagerly filled up in the river, before being emptied over the nearest victim. The heat soared into the low forties as the competition got underway. The frenzied crowd cheering when their local team were challenging. Beer was drunk, chicken feet consumed and children swam at the edge of the river. We've no idea who won, but apart from one capsize the day seemed to go off without a hitch. Now we're off for the challenge of finding a cafe open that's serving something else besides Lao sausage, chicken feet or charcoal rat. Happy New Year !