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The Mekong Delta is a crucial Vietnam region in agriculture and economic development. Not only the largest food and fruit production area in the country but also an international trade hub. You will experience almost everything about Vietnam from rustic to modern here.
Long Xuyen City - a new economic center in the Mekong Delta
But what should we do to absorb all the essence of the Mekong Delta in just one trip to Vietnam? Indeed, this is not a simple question since it is a very vast region. But don't worry, Asia King Travel will suggest some outstanding activities worth trying. They will surely make you love this place.
Vietnamese people often call the Mekong Delta “the Southwest”, or shortly “the West” because of its position in the country. This region is home to 13 provinces and cities, and Can Tho is a centrally governed city.
Mekong Delta is different from many other areas; it is a place separated from the noise and luxury of urban life. People come here to relax in the peaceful space of nature and the sky. And especially, they can also feel the rustic of local people.
Peaceful scene of a rural area
Tourist destinations in the Southwest are often closely associated with rivers and nature. The region is a popular choice for visitors with a lot of tourist attractions, affordable experiences, and well-developed activities.
To fuel our activities on a dynamic Vietnam tour, we need to fill our stomachs. And the Mekong Delta cuisine does more than that. The cuisine is characterized by simplicity, both ingredients and preparation methods. The rich and creamy flavor of coconut milk is a hallmark of the region's culinary identity.
Linh fish hotpot with sesbania flowers is a signature dish of the Southwest, made entirely from ingredients readily available. Linh fish is delicious at the start of the flood season, the bones are not yet hard and the fatty belly. Sesbania flowers have a crunchy and fragrant taste. These two ingredients come together to create a rich and sweet flavor meal.
Ingredients of Linh fish hotpot with sesbania flowers are easily found in the Mekong Delta
Anyone looking for a light meal can try coconut heart salad with shrimp and pork. Coconut heart salad has a sweet and sour taste that is just right, suiting everyone's palate. Coconut heart is often prepared as a dish and is light because of low in fat.
Since settling and reclaiming the land in the early days, Vietnamese people have built canals for easier transportation in the lowlands. Today, the canal system has become a tourism type to explore the natural scenery, rivers, and people authentically. Cruising is the most comprehensive way to explore the Mekong Delta.
Don ca tai tu perfomance on cruise. Source:Phan Dinh Hue
On the luxury cruise, you will enjoy authentic Western dishes to “Don ca tai tu” melodies. You can also go up to the deck to view the fields and rivers with the gentle breeze blowing. Additionally, the cruise stops at famous locations such as Ninh Kieu Wharf, Tra Su Cajuput Forest, and more.
Suggested for you: Saigon - Can Tho 3 Days Cruise
The fertile Mekong Delta is the largest fruit-growing area in Vietnam, producing numerous distinctive fruits, and each season is abundant with different fruits. Visitors can pick and enjoy ripe fruits directly from the garden or bring them home as gifts for loved ones. When you visit the orchards, you will be warmly welcomed by generous Southwest people.
Fruit-laden orchard rows
The richness of the waterways comes not only from the fruits of the gardens but also from the diversity of bird parks and stork gardens. Each sunset, visitors can witness flocks of white storks flying home, as beautiful as a painting. The spacious environment filled with greenery and the cool air washes away all the fatigue of stressful working days.
One of the unique aspects of life in the waterways is the bustling trading scene on the river. Floating markets appear and operate spontaneously on the wide stretches of river. Locals skillfully transfer goods from one boat to another on the swaying boat by the waves. This allows visitors to purchase items and enjoy delicious food right at their seats.
Enjoy the scenery while selecting your favorite goods. Source: VOV
Cai Rang Floating Market is a famous attraction for many tourists when visiting Can Tho Province. The market features hundreds of boats crowded with trade. Boats specialize in selling large amounts of agricultural products and famous fruits from the region. Phong Dien Floating Market, although smaller, brings a more authentic experience and is less touristy.
Temples and pagodas in the Mekong Delta are incredibly special due to the Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer cultural fusion. This is clearly reflected in the architecture of the spiritual buildings. First-time visitors to these temples are sure to have a striking visual impression.
Vinh Trang Pagoda's Romanesque pillars
Vinh Trang Pagoda in Tien Giang Province is one-of-one, blending Eastern and Western cultural elements. It includes Renaissance motifs, Roman-style arches, Japanese ceramics. The roof reflects Thai style, while the Vietnamese characters are crafted in Gothic art. It's truly unbelievable!
Bat Pagoda in Soc Trang gets its name from the large colony of bats living in the pagoda. But no need to worry; the monks believe these bats are a blessing for the pagoda. They do not harm the fruit trees or people. Additionally, the roof and corridors of the pagoda have intricate Khmer designs. A statue of Buddha is specially housed in a dazzling golden structure.
Bats fluttering over the pagoda roof
Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery is the largest Buddhist site in the region. Unlike many with distinct Khmer architecture, the monastery wears a purely Vietnamese design similar to the northern region. Also a free medical clinic for the poor within the ground. Visitors stopping by the temple often leave a small donation to help those in need.
Fish sauce has been one of the ancient traditional crafts of Vietnamese people in coastal areas for hundreds of years. Phu Quoc fish sauce is particularly well-known both domestically and internationally. Inside the fish sauce factory, you can learn about the production process and buy the most flavorful sauce among all sauces.
Fish sauce aged in giant wooden barrels. Source: Viptrip
With the skilled hands of many generations of artisans, Sa Dec Flower Village has become an interesting tourist destination in the Mekong Delta. Towering blooms above cool blue waters painted a canvas in Sa Dec. At any time of the year, visitors feel they have entered a magical colorful world.
Above are activities in the Mekong Delta you should do once. They will surely provide you with unforgettable memories in the land of rivers. Be sure to note everything down and contact Asia King Travel to plan action on your future trip right away!
Suggested for you: South Vietnam Tour 3 days: Mekong Delta Eco Excursion
