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Top experiences not be missed in Mekong Delta in summer

In addition to the ripened fruit orchards look so inviting to travelers, come to the Mekong Delta in the summer, tourists will experience a lot of interesting things that are unlike in any other region in Vietnam.

A woman collects water lily in Mekong Delta

A woman collects water lily in Mekong Delta.

Visit fruit orchards

The year-round lush fruit gardens are the specialty of the southern provinces. These orchards offer different fruits depending on season and time. Summer is usually the main fruit season attracting most tourist. There are many orchards for you to enjoy the feast such as My Khanh in Can Tho, An Binh Island in Vinh Long, Cai Mon in Ben Tre, and Cai Be in Tien Giang.

Immerse in the endless green

Travel out of big cities, the endless green of rice paddies slowly comes into view. Roads, houses, lakes, rivers and canals are always covered with a cool fresh green. The color of palm trees, rice fields in An Giang, the so green of Tra Su Cajeput forest, the greenish mangrove forest in Tram Chim National Park, these many greens are blended together and paint a picturesque scene of the typical Vietnam countryside that you cannot find in anywhere.

Tra Su forest in Chau Doc (Vietnam)

Lost in the middle of the green!

Explore the watery world by boat

With the terrain mainly zigzag canals surrounded by the river, travel by boat is an ideal way to explore the local way of life. The cool breezes and the peaceful atmosphere will bring you unforgettable impressions.

Remember to choose the cruise itinerary which includes some orchard visits, you will be given the chance to pick the fruit yourself.

Become a fisherman

Mekong Delta experience

Enjoy the result.

Wearing famer’s costumes and bailing the water from the pond to catch fish. These activities are considered a cultural characteristic of the region. To experience local way of life and become a true Mekong resident, you can join in such hands-on experiences. There are various ways of to catch fish: by fishing net, rods, bamboo traps or just by hand. Your reward will be a meal filled with fresh caught fish. The feeling of trying to find and catch fish under mud using hand or some local tools is simply thrilling.

Listen to the traditional music

It would be a big regret if you miss some music of Don ca tai tu. The typical folk art form came to life of the Southerners about more than a century ago with the only purpose was entertaining local people after hours of hard works. A song Don ca tai tu is accompanied by several music instruments of two-stringed vertical violin, long zither, monochord zither and moon shaped lute. Later monochord zither was replaced with acoustic/electric guitar with scalloped fretboard. It’s said that Don ca tai tu has own musical and magical power which the southern Vietnamese people poured their heart and soul into. Guests can enjoy the traditional music at anywhere and anytime throughout the Mekong region, but particularly when on a boat cruising along the river or on a full moon night.

Don ca tai tu

Stroll around the floating market

Floating market is a special feature of the Mekong Delta. Market is on the water where hundreds of boats filled with local merchandise and popular fruits gather. Each of boats have a couple of poles which hung the types of products that sell. So customers just look at the pole to know on which boat has what they need or not. Morning is the busiest time of these markets.

Phung Hiep floating market from the air

A corner of Phung Hiep floating market from the air.

Some famous floating markets are Cai Be located at Tien River in the intersection of Tien Giang, Vinh Long and Ben Tre provinces, Phung Hiep in Hau Giang, Chau Doc in An Giang, Cai Rang and Phong Dien in Can Tho.

Cross monkey bridges

Don’t you dare to cross this bridge?

Don’t you dare to cross this bridge?

For a convenient transportation through small canals, local people build this type of bridge. They are typical made of a single bamboo log with handrail on one side. It looks like only monkey could make it across this scaring bridge. The name comes from the stooped monkey-like posture one may have to maintain while crossing so as not to plunge into the canal below.

Visit bird sanctuary

The red-crown crane in Tram Chim is one of the last 15 crane pieces in the world.

The red-crown crane in Tram Chim is one of the last 15 crane pieces in the world.

The very first bird sanctuary you should visit is Tram Chim National Park in Dong Thap province. Every year when the rainy season comes, Tram Chim wears a new look filled with the color and wonder of the nature. The park boasts a diverse collection of over 200 types of birds which make up a quarter of the bird population in Vietnam, some have been put in the Red Book. Besides, the Mekong Delta has about 30 bird sanctuaries scattered across the provinces of Tien Giang, Ben Tre, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, Dong Thap, Can Tho, An Giang, Ca Mau and Kien Giang. There are some sanctuaries have established for a long time covering an area of hundreds of hectares such as U Minh Thuong park in Kien Giang, Ngoc Hien in Ca Mau.

Enjoy hotpot of cyprinid fish and dien dien flowers

laucalinh

Everyone comes to the region know about this famous hot pot. As the flood season comes, all kind of fish from the Mekong River downstream to the fields to start breeding season. One of these fish is linh fish (cyprinid) which makes the main ingredient for the hotpot. Small, fresh and fatty fish are cleaned, removed the gut then rinsed with water and drained. Dien dien (Sesbania sesban) flowers are just picked from tree, cleaned and put in a basket with other vegetables. The fish is sweet and soft, the flowers is slightly bitter and the soup is sour and fragrant, all together creates a wonderful taste. Don’t leave Mekong Delta without trying it. Dong Thap, Long An, An Giang and Can Tho are among the most famous places to try this hotpot.

There's no better way to immerse yourself in local culture than to experience it directly. It is warmly welcomed by a three-generation Hanoian family residing in the city's southwest. Savoring a meal with traditional dishes and discovering Vietnam culture through conversation with the hosts in the warm atmosphere of this hospitable family promises an enriching experience. This is an excellent opportunity for those who love Vietnam, its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine.

Discover the enchanting textiles of Vietnam's ethnic minorities with a full-day workshop in Lao Chai Village. Join Black H'Mong artisans to explore hemp production, batik design, and indigo dyeing. Uncover the meanings behind H'Mong folk art symbols and enjoy a traditional H'Mong lunch. This experience includes a hike of about 1.5 hours in Muong Hoa valley, through beautiful rice terraced fields. This workshop is suitable for all ages and skill levels and offers a unique cultural immersion.

Bach Ma National Park is a nature lover's paradise, offering breathtaking views, bird-watching opportunities, and a hike through tropical forests to its peak for panoramic views. Departing from Danang or Hoi An, the journey includes the memorable Hai Van Pass and explores historical relics from the Vietnam War.

Exploring Angkor Wat is a must for anyone visiting Cambodia. Its architectural brilliance, with expansive galleries, intricate bas-reliefs, and towering spires, reflects the artistic and engineering prowess of the Khmer Empire. Angkor Wat is officially symbolizing the nation's identity and pride. We highly recommend dedicating an entire day to this magnificent temple complex, its grandeur, intricate carvings, and ionic temples.

Exploring the local life through Cambodia's famous floating villages offers a fascinating insight into rural Cambodian life on water. Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the region, plays a crucial role in the lives of many Cambodians, providing a livelihood and sustenance for countless communities. It is home to several floating villages, with Chong Kneas Floating Village and Kampong Phluk Floating Village standing out.

Experience the magic of the sun's first golden rays as they cast a warm glow over the ancient temples, creating an enchanting moment. Get up early in the morning and embark on a journey through the vast Angkor temple complex in a traditional tuk-tuk to witness this beautiful sunrise. It's an experience not to be missed by early risers.

What could be more magnificent than witnessing the sun cast its final golden-orange rays over Cambodia's largest freshwater lake from a boat? Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Apsara show, where women in tight-fitting traditional dresses perform intricate, graceful dances that narrate classical myths and religious stories through their codified, sinuous movements. This experience will surely finish the day with lasting memories.

The Opulence Cruise, symbolizing wealth and elegance, is ready to provide an unmatched experience on the waters of the Chao Phraya River. Satiate with an international gourmet buffet and live music by professional singers. Admire the architecture and landmarks like Wat Kanlaya, Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Asiatique, and other stunning sights.

 

This tour visits the famous River Kwai bridge built during World War II by POWs near Kanchanaburi, 130 km west of Bangkok. Explore the Wat Cemetery, where around 9,000 allied soldiers who died building the bridge and the "Death Railway" are buried. Discover the past at the JEATH Museum, showcasing wartime photos and artifacts. The tour includes a train ride over the original Death Railway track and a delicious lunch at the disembarkation station.

Experience a traditional northern Thai dinner served on a Khantoke tray, accompanied by performances of traditional Lanna dances and music.

Suan Dok Temple, built in 1370 and the royal cemetery of the Chiang Mai Royal Family, features a gilded Chedi with Buddha relics and a renowned 16th-century Golden Buddha. Engage in interactive discussions with Thai monks to explore Buddhism and the Buddhist way of life. Experience the Meditation Retreat, which promotes peace and deep insight into life's truths.

Located in Northern Laos, this small town is known for its ancient temples, French colonial architecture, and slow-paced lifestyle. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a blend of cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, perfect for exploring local traditions and serene river cruises.

Nestled amidst stunning limestone mountains and lush greenery, Vang Vieng is famous for its outdoor adventures. From tubing and kayaking on the Nam Song River to exploring caves and hiking, Vang Vieng is an adventurer’s paradise.

One of Southeast Asia's most enigmatic archaeological sites. Shrouded in mystery, this prehistoric site has puzzled historians and archaeologists for decades, offering a glimpse into a lost civilization's secrets and inviting visitors to explore its intriguing past.

Located in the southern tip of Laos, Si Phan Don is a serene riverine archipelago on the Mekong River. It's known for its waterfalls, and the rare Irrawaddy dolphins.

Visit the craft villages in the surroundings of Hue and discover the unique traditional crafts that have existed for hundreds of years in the former capital of Vietnam. Meet talented artisans to understand their work, then cycling through rural villages to get a real insight into Vietnamese local life.

Situated 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi is a legendary historical site, not only for those intrigued by Vietnam's wartime history but everyone. The tour offers a thrilling military jeep ride through the picturesque Vietnamese countryside, promising an unforgettable adventure.

Explore the lesser-known Mekong Delta of Ben Tre, known as Coconut Island. Cruise the scenic Delta, discover traditional crafts, cycle through village roads to visit local homes, savor tropical fruits, and meet a former Vietcong soldier turned rice paper artisan. Enjoy a delicious 5-course lunch, beautifully blending culture, history, and the riverine charm of the Mekong Delta.

See an authentic Hoi An like no others. Ride through rice paddies fields, get to know locals who make a living from traditional crafts and taste Vietnamese coffee.

Son My Memorial, the site of the My Lai Massacre, offers scenic views and profound insights into the Vietnam War's tragedies. The experience also includes meeting and talking with survivors from 1968, adding a powerful reflection on the war and a valuable educational experience, especially for history students.

Experience a profound journey through Phnom Penh with this tour. Visiting the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offers a real insight into Cambodia's history and the impact of the Khmer Rouge regime. Conclude with a visit to a lively outdoor market to explore local goods and souvenirs. This tour provides a meaningful blend of historical reflection and cultural discovery.

Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam's first, offers an enriching and meaningful experience for students. Explore the wildlife rescue center that protects endangered species like critically endangered pangolins. Get hands-on with keepers, preparing food, cleaning enclosures, and creating enrichment tools.

Cambodia was once one of the most mine-affected countries in the world. This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about humanitarian demining, including training rats to detect mines and the process of clearing them, and to witness a live demonstration of HeroRATs at work on a simulated minefield. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Visiting Chiang Mai's elephant sanctuary offers a chance to connect with rescued elephants in an ethical setting. Observe these gentle giants, participate in feeding, and learn about the sanctuary's conservation efforts. The experience promotes respect for these animals and supports their protection and rehabilitation.

Phnom Kulen, 50 kilometers from Siem Reap, is a sacred mountain revered by Hindus and Buddhists. It’s widely regarded as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. The visit offers a scenic drive, exploration of intricate carvings, and a traditional Cambodian blessing. Key sites include the Thousand Lingas and the giant reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom pagoda.

A unique experience and a different way to see Hanoi. Explore hidden backstreets, local homes, markets, and how locals live, work, and play. Unlike other tours, we show the city's beautiful and raw sides. Highlights include must-see landmarks. Discover the serene outskirts around West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, showcasing the harmony between city life and its peaceful surroundings. Enjoy stops at authentic eateries to savor Hanoi's best dishes, including family recipes and local specialties.