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A fascinating and inspiring tale of colonial exploration and adventure in which the author recounts the story of the original Mekong expedition of 1866, interspersed with his own account of life on the Mekong today as he retraces their ‘steps’. Keay’s eloquent descriptions are almost tangible, breathing life in to the river and the truly intrepid characters. The romantic ideology of Garnier was responsible for driving the expedition forward in the face of adversity, and also their dwindling numbers, quelle surprise. South-East Asia has changed so much over the past few centuries that a brief history of the region and the people who inhabit it are essential to make sense of it all. As the history of the region is inextricably linked to the Mekong, this book is perfect; it uncovers interesting snippets that are not gleaned from travelling through the region and that you’re unlikely to find in travel guides. Never has the word awesome been more apt than when describing the mighty Mekong. If this book doesn't leave you burgeoning with wanderlust, best lock your doors and windows; you're suffering from acute agoraphobia. A slight exaggeration, but nevertheless essential reading for anyone embarking on a trip to South-East Asia.

2022-11-14 13:58