The Mekong Delta in Vietnam, often referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Vietnam,” is a tapestry of winding rivers, lush greenery, and vibrant culture. This region, where the mighty Mekong River approaches the sea, offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience Vietnam’s rural heartland while embracing eco-friendly practices.

In this guide, we’ll explore how you can enjoy the wonders of the Mekong Delta in Vietnam while minimizing your environmental impact and supporting local communities.

Why Choose Eco-Travel in Mekong Delta Vietnam?

The Mekong Delta Vietnam is a delicate ecosystem facing numerous environmental challenges, including climate change, pollution, and over-tourism. By opting for eco-travel, you can:

1. Reduce your carbon footprint
2. Support local communities and sustainable practices
3. Preserve the natural beauty of the region for future generations
4. Gain a deeper, more authentic experience of the Mekong Delta Vietnam

Sustainable Activities in Mekong Delta Vietnam

1. Floating Markets

Immerse yourself in the vibrant bustle of floating markets like Cai Rang in Can Tho or Cai Be in Tien Giang. Witness the colorful exchange of local produce, fresh fruits, and handcrafted goods directly from boats. Responsible operators often utilize smaller boats with quieter engines to minimize disruption.

2. Cycling Adventures

Explore the intricate network of canals and lush countryside on a bicycle. Rent bikes from local homestays or tour operators and meander at your own pace, stopping at charming villages, fruit orchards, and hidden temples.

3. Kayaking Through Mangroves

Kayak through verdant mangrove forests, teeming with diverse birdlife and unique flora in Mekong Delta Vietnam. Discover hidden waterways, observe shy creatures in their natural habitat, and experience the serenity of these vital ecosystems.

4. Homestay Experiences

Immerse yourself in local life by staying in a traditional homestay. Connect with families, learn about their daily routines, and experience authentic Mekong Delta cuisine prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

In addition, you can experience staying at lodges that are both environmentally friendly and luxurious, such as the famous Mekong Lodge, Cai Be; Mekong Rustic, Cai Be; and Island Lodge, My Tho…

5. Sustainable Farming Practices

Visit organic farms and learn about traditional farming techniques that prioritize harmony with the environment. Witness the cultivation of rice, tropical fruits, and vegetables grown using sustainable methods. Responsible operators often offer workshops where you can participate in planting activities.

6. Birdwatching

The Mekong Delta Vietnam is home to numerous bird species. Visit protected areas like Tram Chim National Park to observe rare birds while supporting conservation efforts.

7. Traditional Craft Workshops

Learn about and support local artisans practicing sustainable crafts, such as coconut leaf weaving or pottery making using natural materials.

6 Eco-Travel Tips for Mekong Delta Vietnam

1. Reduce Plastic Usage

• Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at your accommodation
• Say no to plastic bags when shopping at local markets
• Carry a reusable straw for enjoying fresh coconut water

2. Respect Wildlife

• Observe animals from a distance and never feed them
• Avoid purchasing souvenirs made from endangered species

3. Support Local Communities

• Buy handicrafts directly from artisans
• Eat at local restaurants that use regional produce
• Participate in community-based tourism initiatives

4. Conserve Water and Energy

• Take short showers and reuse towels
• Turn off lights and air conditioning when leaving your room

5. Leave No Trace

• Carry out all trash, especially when visiting natural areas
• Stay on designated paths to avoid damaging vegetation
• Choose Eco-Certified Tour Operators: Look for operators with recognized eco-certifications or those that follow sustainable tourism principles.

6. Learn and Respect Local Customs

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
• Ask permission before taking photos of people
• Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to show respect

Best Time for Eco-Travel in Mekong Delta Vietnam

The Mekong Delta Vietnam has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

Dry Season (December to April):

• Ideal for outdoor activities and river tours
• Less rainfall and lower humidity
• Peak tourist season, so book eco-friendly accommodations in advance

Wet Season (May to November):

• Lush green landscapes and fewer tourists
• Some activities may be limited due to high water levels
• Great time for observing local flood adaptation techniques

Pro Tip: Visit during the shoulder seasons (April-May or November-December) for a balance between good weather and fewer crowds.

Eco-travel in Mekong Delta Vietnam offers a unique opportunity to experience one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating regions while contributing to its preservation.

By choosing sustainable accommodations, participating in eco-friendly activities, and respecting local communities and environments, you can help ensure that the Mekong Delta Vietnam remains a vibrant and beautiful destination for generations to come.

From the bustling floating markets to the tranquil mangrove forests, the Mekong Delta Vietnam provides endless opportunities for sustainable adventure. By embracing eco-travel principles, you’ll not only minimize your environmental impact but also gain a deeper, more authentic understanding of this remarkable region and its people.

Ready to embark on your eco-friendly adventure in the Mekong Delta Vietnam? Start planning your sustainable trip today and become a responsible traveler in this unique corner of the world! Contact Lux Travel DMC now for excellent options!

Discover more: 4 Premier Mekong River Cruises Adventures to Experience Vietnam-Cambodia in Style

<p>The post Discover the Eco Tourism Gem of the Mekong Delta Vietnam first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

The floating market is definitely one of the most attractive attractions in the Mekong Delta and also the most vibrant place to learn about local culture. Let Lux Travel DMC help you find the most prominent and typical names!

Vietnam’s floating markets are always a vibrant picture with sights, sounds and flavors that express the heart and soul of the captivating Mekong Delta. Now, Lux Travel DMC will take you on a virtual journey through the top 5 floating markets in Vietnam, where visitors can encounter trading traditions in a breathtaking aquatic setting.

1. Cai Rang Floating Market – The most famous floating market in Vietnam

Cai Rang floating market is one of the famous floating markets in the Southwest of Vietnam which located in Can Tho. Established in the 19th century, this vibrant market is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a overview of the area’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

Previously, Cai Rang market sold mainly agricultural products and each boat only specialized in selling a certain type of product. However, now the market sells more diverse foods, household items and essential things for life on the river. The best time to visit Cai Rang Floating Market is in the early morning. The market starts to come alive as early as 5:00 am when vendors begin setting up their boats and preparing their goods for sale. By 6:00 am, the market is in full swing with boats filled with colorful fruits and vegetables, creating a picturesque scene on the water. Visitors can witness the lively trading activities between vendors and buyers. Not only that, now you can have breakfast right on the boat. This is an opportunity for you to enjoy local specialties such as hu tieu, Vietnamese Thick Noodle Soup, etc.

You can also participate in various entertainment activities here. One of the most popular activities is taking a boat ride around the market to admire the scenery and take photos. Visitors can also enjoy local delicacies on board or participate in traditional music, dance performances.

Highly recommend: Exclusive Private Mekong Delta On Song Xanh Sampan 2 days

2. Cai Be Floating Market

Cai Be Floating Market lies on the Tien River, adjacent to Tien Giang, Ben Tre, and Vinh Long. Formed in the 19th century, known as the most famous wholesale market in the Mekong Delta region. If you are a traveler planning to come to Vietnam, Cai Be floating market is a place that won’t dissapoint you.

The market will open at 4:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM daily. To experience the bustling atmosphere of the market, the most suitable time frame is from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM. Visitors can take a boat ride through the canals and see locals sell fruits, vegetables, and other goods from their boats or enjoying the cuisine of Western Vietnam such as steamed rice rolls, rice porridge with pork offal, Vietnamese thick noodle soup, … However, instead of enjoying these dishes on land or in restaurants, tourists have the opportunity to savor them on floating boats and sampans.

3. Phong Dien floating market

Phong Dien floating neslted in Can Tho, alongside the well-known Cai Rang floating market. While it may not be as popular with tourists, Phong Dien floating market is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the local culture.

The Phong Dien Floating Market typically opens at 4:00 AM and closes at 7:00 AM. Phong Dien floating market offers a wide range of goods and services, including fresh produce, seafood, meat, poultry, and a variety of local handicrafts. Visitors can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to traditional Mekong Delta delicacies such as rice paper rolls and sticky rice cakes.

An exciting experience at Phong Dien floating market will help visitors gain a deeper insight into the cultural identity of the locals, relaxing your soul with the beautiful scenery and friendliness of the surrounding people. Bringing a wonderful experience to visitors

4. Tra On Floating Market

Tra On floating market is located at 44 Trung Trac Street, Luc Si Thanh Commune, Tra On District, Vinh Long Province. Located on the banks of the Hau River, Tra On floating market has become a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. Not only is it a bustling shopping center, but it is also a picturesque spot for young people in Trà Ôn District to take photos.

According to the experience of many tourists, the best time to visit Vinh Long Tra On Floating Market is from 5-6 am. This is the most crowded time and is also the time when you can catch the golden moment of sunrise. About 40km from Vinh Long city center, to visit this market, you can choose to take a bus, motorbike or plane.

Coming here, travelers can obtain the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and relax after stressful working days. You can also explore stalls selling goods such as vegetables, fruits, and seafood. Visitors can participate in fishing competitions with local people, indulge in dishes such as snakehead fish hotpot, braised fish, Vietnamese pancake, sticky rice cake, … This is a chance for tourists to experience the unique culture of the Mekong Delta.

5. Nga Nam Floating Market

Nga Nam floating market is located about 60 km from Soc Trang city center, nestled in the town of the same name. The name “Nga Nam” in Vietnamese means “five directions”, originating from the fact that this floating market is the intersection of five rivers going in five directions: Ca Mau, Vinh Quoi, Long My, Thanh Tri, Phung Hiep.

According to many records, Nga Nam Floating Market was formed during the French colonial period. The name Nga Nam also appeared when the French dug the Phung Hiep canal. Since then, Nga Nam floating market has been a place where people vend, trade products, and goods gather here and are then taken by traders to all over the Western provinces.

At 3 or 4 a.m., the entire river turns into a busy road, crowded with sampans and motorboats. Usually, the market opens from 4am. Traders flock here very early to buy goods at good prices from vendor. At around 6:00 am, the market is most crowded, people from all over come to the market to shop, especially on weekends. Nga Nam floating market sells almost everything, each boat will have a “cay beo” (advertising bamboo), on the scar trees hang the items they sell so that buyers can easily identify them.

When coming to Nga Nam Floating Market, you definitely cannot miss the delicious breakfast specialties. The market has many small boats selling everything from beverages (coffee, smoothies, juices) to foodstuffs such as broken rice, hu tieu, Soc Trang noodle soup, fried vermicelli, etc.

Having the opportunity to come to Nga Nam Floating Market, you will be immersed in the lively atmosphere of the Mekong River Delta. This place will help you understand more about the culture and people of Soc Trang, their kindness and simple, honest life. Therefore, although it is not the most famous or crowded market in the Mekong Delta, Nga Nam is still a place that you should not miss when you have the opportunity to travel to the West.

6. Travel tips

To obtain a great experience, Lux Travel DMC gives you a few tips when coming here:

• When visiting Cai Rang floating market, you should wear easy-to-move, light and cool clothes. This is also a way to avoid getting hot because the weather in in western Vietnam does not have winter, the temperature will be quite high.
• When getting on the boat, don’t forget to wear a life jacket to protect yourself from dangerous situations.
• Remember to ask the prices of different items, especially food stalls.
• Bring a hat or sunscreen or an umbrella just in case. If it rains, you should wear shoes with straps or flat shoes for ease of movement
• It is indispensable to have anti-seasickness medicine if you are someone who is not used to sitting on a boat or raft
• It’s best not to bargain with sellers early in the morning because according to Vietnamese belief, the first person to buy will determine the day’s luck. If you keep bargaining, it will easily make the seller feel uncomfortable

Above is a summary of the top 5 most famous and worth-visiting markets in Vietnam along with some travel tips. Hopefully the above information will be helpful for your trip to the magical river region of Vietnam. If you have any difficulty planning a trip to Vietnam, do not hesitate to contact Lux Travel DMC via email: sales@luxtraveldmc.com for the fastest and most enthusiastic support.

About Lux Travel DMC

Founded in 2005, Lux Travel DMC is leading Luxury Tour Operator 2023 by World Travel Awards. We provide 100% tailor-made private tours in Southeast Asia. The holiday is designed around your interest, time and budget. 99% of our former customers are satisfied with our service. Therefore, we have a lot of positive reviews on TripAdvisor. Please feel free to contact us to have direct consultation for planning a trip designed in your own way.

Contact Us

• Address: No.456 Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Phone: (+84) 24 3927 4120
• Email: sales@luxtraveldmc.com
• Hotline: +84-336-276-996
• Website: https://luxtraveldmc.com

<p>The post Top 5 must-visit floating markets in Vietnam first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

In the following blog, Lux Travel DMC would take you on a tour to see the attractions of this city. This could be a useful guideline if you are about to take a trip to Vinh Long Vietnam.

1. Best time to travel to Vinh Long Vietnam?

Vinh Long lies between the Tien River and Hau River of the beautiful Mekong Delta, thus sharing the same weather condition with other provinces in this area. Generally, the temperatures remain relatively high (above 30 Celsius Degree) all year round.

To be specific, the weather in Vinh Long can be divided into 2 distinctive seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season begins in December and lasts till the end of April of the next year. This period features clear blue skies and little to no rainfall. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities like biking and experiencing the local life. However, as the humidity would be exceptionally low, it might be a little bit unpleasant to spend too much time outside.

The rest of the year is when the wet (or rainy) season rules the world. From May to the end of November, Vinh Long experiences lots of rain, with the heaviest volume falling between June and July. These are also the hottest months of the year with high humidity. During that period, Vinh Long in particular and the Mekong Delta in general step into the fruit seasons, with plenty of fresh tropical fruits in their orchards get ripe and are ready to be harvested.

From September to November, the whole region turns into the floating season. It is the ideal time for a rowboat trip along the canals and rivers of the Southwest.

To sum up, what is the best time to visit Vinh Long? It must be the later months of the rainy season, which is between September and November. The rainfall starts to decrease, while the rivers and canals are full of water, making it ideal for boat travel.

2. How to get to Vinh Long?

Where is Vinh Long Vietnam? This province is situated just about 135 km from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). It takes more than 2 hours to transfer from Saigon to Vinh Long City via the National Road 1A and My Thuan Bridge.

Regarding the means of transportation, you can catch a bus from the city’s station to reach there. However, the buses are always crowded, thus it is not a very wise option to opt for. Another way to travel to Vinh Long is to catch a van or shuttle bus from a travel agency. You will have your seat and the driver will be more careful when driving.

The most luxury and convenient vehicle to go with is the private car. If you book a private tour at a luxury tour operator, they will pick you up with their luxury private car. In this way, visitors don’t have to share spaces with strangers or worry about the carefulness of the driver.

What’s more, many travelers prefer renting a motorbike and ride it themselves. It is a great way to behold the beautiful scenery along the way, but it’s quite dangerous an option if you are not familiar with driving a motorbike as well as the weird transportation “rules” of Vietnamese people.

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3. Things to do in Vinh Long Vietnam.

Vinh Long might not be a familiar name to foreigners as other Mekong Delta provinces do. Its charming beauty still awaits people’s exploration. So, what to do during a Vinh Long Vietnam tour?

Often, Vinh Long is included in the day trip itinerary to the Mekong Delta from Saigon such as the 2-day Cai Be – Vinh Long discovery and the like. The followings are the must-try activities that you shouldn’t forget to experience while in Vinh Long.

a. Wander the fruit orchards on Cu Lao An Binh (An Binh Island)

Cu Lao An Binh covers an area of roughly 60 km2, consisting of 4 communes: An Binh, Hoa Ninh, Dong Phu, and Binh Hoa Phuoc. Surrounded by the Co Chien River and Ham Luong River, it is an attractive destination for Mekong Delta tours.

An Binh Island appeals tourists with its evergreen fruit orchards that grow and cultivate several kinds of tropical fruits like rambutan, grapefruit, mango, durian, and so on. There are small canals that connect the gardens, where you can go aboard the local boats to reach different parts of the orchards to get lost in its awe-inspiring greenery.

Traveling to An Binh island, tourists are also able to experience the life of the Southwestern people in the most “authentic” ways: try their farm works. You can go picking the fruits, fertilize the plants, catch fish at the canals, and so on. Moreover, tourists can join in their traditional games like wooden clog racing, monkey bridge crossing, bag jumping, etc. If you love thrilling games, try crocodile-fishing or ride the ostrich. It is of much fun, so don’t miss it out!

b. Take a boat tour through the narrow canals of Mekong Delta

A rowboat trip is an iconic activity that appears in all Mekong Delta tours. With a dense network of canals and ditches that are still less known to mass tourism, Vinh Long cannot be a better place for this activity.

Here, you will board on the wooden rowboat to glide along the small irrigation canals amidst the bushy rows of willow trees to reach different corners of the southwestern gardens. You can also visit the bonsai garden and the fishing farm to see how the locals’ daily life goes on.

After finishing the boat tour in Vinh Long Vietnam, tourists can walk or ride along the narrow roads across the orchards and stop by a leaf-roofed hut for a short break and listen to the “Don Ca Tai Tu” – the traditional folk music invented by Mekong Delta farmers. Just leave all the stress and sorrow of the life outside and immerse yourself in the tranquility and peace that this place offers.

c. Visit Tra On Floating Market

You city dwellers buy foods only at supermarkets or convenience stores, right? If so, the floating market is where you should head your Vinh Long tour towards.

Very soon in the morning, hundreds of boats and sampans from different areas gather there to trade goods. The market is full of noisy sounds and the laughter of both the sellers and buyers. The sale happens quite quickly because the price is very reasonable and the customers do not need to bargain. It is the typical cultural identities of the southwestern people.

Another appeal of this market is the way people advertise their products. Due to the distinctive feature of the floating market that the boats stay extremely close to each other, it is really hard for the buyers to approach the boat. Additionally, the goods are put in the cabin, making it difficult to find the items they are looking for. Therefore, the sellers hang the samples of their goods on tall bamboo poles so that the customers can easily see even from a far distance. If the items are sold out, the samples will be taken down. That method is called “bẹo hàng” in Vietnamese.

Coming there, not only can tourists feel the ecstatic vibe of a local market but you also have the opportunity to sample the rustic delicacies that are sold directly on the boat. Drinks, snacks, fruits, and the like are abundant to shop, too.

A visit to Tra On Floating Market will offer you a close glimpse at the life of the lovely people who survive their lives on the waters. The more you know about them, the more you will be impressed.

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4. What to eat in Vinh Long?

Vinh Long Vietnam is not just land with exquisite landscapes. Its culinary culture is exceptionally rich, also. If you are spending some days in this land, there are dishes that you shouldn’t miss sampling.

a. “Cá tai tượng chiên xù” (Deep-Fried Giant Gourami)

When it comes to fish dishes, Mekong Delta is second to none. And “cá tai tượng chiên xù”, or deep-fried elephant-ear fish) is among the most iconic delicacies of this land.

To make this dish, a whole gourami fish is deep-fried at a high temperature in a big pan. As its scales and fins are not removed, the well-cooked fish turns out to be exceptionally crispy outside. In contrast, the meat inside is tender, sweet, and fragrant. To give out such a great result, the chef needs to be skillful and meticulous when frying the fish.

The authentic way to enjoy that dish is to wrap the fish meat in a rice paper together with different kinds of herbs. Then dip it into the bowl of “mắm nêm” (fish sauce) – the traditional dipping sauce of the locals. The taste might be a little bit sharp at first, but it turns out to be heavenly tasty afterward. Once you have tried 1 roll, then you’ll definitely want more.

b. “Lẩu cua đồng” (Field Crab Hotpot)

The field crab hotpot is the iconic dish of Vinh Long Vietnam. As its name states, the main ingredient of this hotpot is the tiny field crabs that can be easily found in the rice paddies all over Vietnam. Small as it might seem, this crab composes rich nutrients, especially calcium. Furthermore, its meat is said to be a great detox thing that could dissolve blood and strengthen the tendons, and aid digestion.

The crabs used in “lẩu cua đồng” must be fresh and have firm meat and lots of roe. The locals will remove the roe before crushing the crabs and cook it in a hot pot. You can then add toppings into the pot to make a complete “lẩu”. Apart from meat, shrimp, fish, and crab, Mekong Delta people love to add their fresh veggies into the hotpot, namely the “hoa bí” (zucchini blossoms), “rau trai” (Asiatic dayflower), and “bông điên điển” (sesbania sesban flowers). No matter what you add, this hotpot can still easily whet your appetite thanks to the strong aroma of the crab, the sweetness of the broth, and the varied taste of different herbs and veggies.

This dish is the highlighted summer food, but it tastes amazing if you try it in winter, also.

c. Bánh xèo hến, Vũng Liêm, Vĩnh Long

“Bánh xèo” (Vietnamese crepe) is a reputable street food of this S-shaped country. It often contains meat and shrimp; however, the “bánh xèo” version in Vung Liem, Vinh Long is different. In this place, people make that pancake with mussels.

Freshwater mussels appear in several dishes of the southwestern people such as mussel rice, mussel soup, and of course, “bánh xèo”. Vung Liem people use it as the main ingredient for their special crepe, altogether with the fresh naturally-grown herbs and veggies that they collect from their gardens. These things bring along different flavors to the cake: sour, spicy, and acrid. Combining with the sweetness of the mussel, the fat of the pancake, and the sweetness and sourness of the dipping sauce, they have made up an excellent cake that could steal every eater’s heart.

5. Where to stay in Vinh Long?

As mentioned above, Vinh Long tends to be included in the day trip itinerary, travelers often choose to stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Here there are first-class hotels with high-end amenities and top-notch services, ensuring you will have a comfortable stay. For those wanting to get served with the luxurious service, this can’t be a better choice to opt for.

Still, many people who are eager to get exposed to the local life choose to have a farm stay with the host family in Vinh Long Vietnam. There are several homestays in An Binh Island and other tourist attractions, allowing travelers to stay there overnight. There’s no big hotel there, just the normal traditional southwestern house with a lovely host family. Not only can you sleep over there but you can also join their meals or follow them to do the farm works. It’s a kind of eco-tourism, so if you love to harmonize with nature as well as get closer to the villagers, go for this option.

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6. The bottom lines.

With the beauty remaining unspoiled by mass tourism, Vinh Long is a wonderful destination for your private Mekong Delta tour. If you want to stay away from the crowd and feel the most authentic vibe of the Southwest, do not hesitate to go there. The experiences you will get will never dissatisfy you.

Don’t know where to start your trip? Let Lux Travel DMC help you. We have well-organized tours to Vinh Long Vietnam that could suit you.

Let’s see some of our best Mekong Delta tours:

Mekong Delta Discovery in Style 3 days

Mysteries of Mekong Waterways 5 days

Best of Mekong Delta 4 days

Scenic South Vietnam 6 days

We also customize private South Vietnam tours to make it unique for you and your group only. Feel free to drop us a line at any time to get consulted. It’s always our honor to be of service!

Contact Us:

• Address: No.456, Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Phone: (+84) 4 3927 4120
• Email: sales@luxtraveldmc.com
• Hotline: +84-336-276-996
• Website: https://luxtraveldmc.com

PLAN YOUR TRIP HERE!

<p>The post Vinh Long Vietnam – An Unspoiled Place That Awaits Your Exploration first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

The richness of the Mekong River lies in the crucial transport channel function for the Vietnamese as well as being an important commercial center. The Vietnamese establish their daily floating markets on the river.

The Mekong River cruise sails through the water of the Mekong Delta between southern Vietnam and Cambodia. Embarking on a cruise on the Mekong River is an ideal way to experience the iconic places slowly drifting along the river and observe the life flowing on the waters of Cambodia and Vietnam. You can choose to sail in Vietnam, or in Cambodia or from Vietnam to Cambodia and vice versa.

Choosing a cruise on the Mekong river is truly an extraordinary experience. You can choose to have a luxury experience on the Mekong River and watch the real life of the Mekong River daily in front of the chairs from your comfortable cabin.

Below is a list of the 6 best cruises on the Mekong River.

1. Bassac Mekong Cruise – The boat takes its name from a Mekong effluent

The Bassac Mekong cruise is one of the best deluxe cruises in the Mekong River. The deluxe Mekong cruise is built entirely of natural wood with an elegant design. Each cabin is equipped with modern comforts such as air conditioning, private bathroom. Bassac Mekong Cruise has a 100 square meter restaurant with a large kitchen. The cruise also has a small office room and 700 square feet of solarium.

Bassac Mekong Cruise Services:

Bassac Mekong offers passengers many interesting activities along the Mekong River in Vietnam. Bassac cruises are perfect platforms for your company or board meetings in small committees. Providing the ability to bring your group to the heart of the Mekong Delta, varied cuisine, and solid logistics, Bassac Mekong allows your creativity to express themselves freely.

Activities and experiences when traveling with Bassac Mekong:

You can join some activities such as biking and even kayaking to discover the place or simply to relax and improve health. You can also relax freely immersing yourself in the beautiful sunlight, sipping some favorite drinks and contemplating the wonderful scenes of the Mekong River Delta in Vietnam on the terrace. Bassac Mekong cruise can take travelers on a cruise up to seven days without stopping and offers great flexibility in travel planning.

The Bassac Mekong cruise is truly an ideal choice for couples, families and groups of friends who enjoy discovering the lives of people in the Mekong Delta.

Thanks to the considerable experience in the travel, hospitality sector and the deep knowledge of our country, our local guides are always ready to help you make a memorable trip to Vietnam. Contact us for advice from our local tour guide and plan your trip!

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2. Exploring the Mekong River with Le Cochinchine

The ”Le Cochinchine” cruise is one of the best top cruises in the Mekong River. The fleet of Le Cochinchine contains two large cruises: Le Cochinchine Cruise 7 cabins and Le Cochinchine Cruise 10 cabins.

“Le Cochinchine” cruise services:

The Mekong cruise offers a wide range of services. With the crew of 6, including 1 cruise/ driving manager, 1 captain and 1 chef, passengers will be satisfied with the enthusiasm and concentration of the staffs. In terms of food and drink, you have the opportunity to taste many delicious local dishes along with a delicate range of Asian and international dishes. Furthermore, there is a wide selection of famous French, Italian and Australian wines, alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, fruit juices, soft drinks, tea, and coffee. In addition to relaxing in comfortable cabins, passengers can relax with a foot massage on the terrace where you can also contemplate a splendid view of the river. Otherwise, the cruise also serves cycling services, visiting famous attractive places along the riverbanks, combining motorized rowing trips, or simply walking to relax and enjoy the fresh air.

Activities and experiences when traveling with the “Le Cochinchine” cruise:

Being one of the most popular cruises on the Mekong River, Le Cochinchine offers an elegant and relaxing way to explore the stunning scenes of the Mekong River. The cruise brings passengers closer to the local people in different corners of the delta. Le Cochinchine Cruise promises to be a quiet and extremely comfortable cruise for your journey. You will have many opportunities to discover the culture of Vietnam through its authenticity and taste the local customs and foods along with many unforgettable experiences exploring the Mekong delta and the picturesque villages. With Le Cochinchine Mekong Cruise, you can enjoy the infinite contemplation of a fascinating scenery when you come across a world of legendary streams and picturesque landscapes, floating markets, lush bonsai gardens, rice fields, villages, pagodas and temples, fruitful orchards, bazaar loaded with boats and a myriad of smiling children…

Le Cochinchine cruise is one of the best choices for couples, families and groups of friends who want to make a cheap and unforgettable trip in the Mekong River Delta.

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3. Gecko Eye Cruise – Mekong cruise in a stylish and luxury way

Have you ever expected to experience a Mekong cruise on an individual basis? If the answer is yes, Gecko Eyes Cruise is your first choice with a reasonable price but advanced services. Gecko Eyes Cruise is defined as a private charter cruise and one of the top cruises of the Mekong River. The cruise was built by local artisans following the traditional fishing boats of An Giang. The ships are made of local woods decorated with elegant carvings.

Gecko Eyes Cruise Services:

To ensure your safety and well-being, our staffs on board (captain, sailor, cook, tour guide) are always available and willing help. The guest area that is 40 sqm has a luxurious cabin (double or twin cabin) with French style balcony, an air conditioning, a private bathroom, a panoramic room with French balconies and a solarium at the bow. On request, the lounge can be transformed into an additional bedroom with two beds. The staff area, with a well-equipped kitchen, is at the back of the cruise. This area is completely separated from the guest area by a lockable door to guarantee your privacy. Operating since 2012 with dimensions of 19.8 meters in length and 4.3 meters in width, Gecko Eyes has only one cabin with a limited number of people to ensure that you have the most private space.

Activities and experiences when traveling with the Gecko Eyes cruise

Each itinerary has exciting excursions and activities to maximize fun during the cruise. With Gecko Eyes Cruise, you can fulfill your wishes for a private cruise on the Mekong River to explore the natural beauty and daily life of its inhabitants.

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4. Mekong Eyes River Cruise – first choice in accommodation on board on the Mekong River

The Mekong Eyes River cruise is one of the best choices for top cruises on the Mekong River. It takes its name from one of the traditional ceremonies performed on a Mekong boat called “eye opening” which hope for fast and safe journeys for the boat. It was built with high quality wood that combines regional style and modern comfort, which is tastefully decorated by skilled artisans of the Mekong River. Mekong Eyes has a length of 39 meters and a width of 8.5 meters with 15 cabins, which can accommodate up to 30 guests.

Mekong Eyes Cruise Services:

There is a large dining room on the lower deck, where you can enjoy Vietnamese culinary specialties or an evening aperitif in the cozy bar. An elegant upper deck in the panoramic room invites you to sit and admire the impressions of the fantastic landscapes and the busy day life on the river. On the upper deck, you will find an open seating area and solarium with stunning views. While you are enjoying the solarium, the friendly Mekong Eyes River cruise staff will serve you with fresh drinks and freshly prepared delicacies. All cabins are fully equipped with standard facilities and services to provide maximum comfort for travelers. Each cabin is designed with large windows to isolate from the windy climate and noisy noise. Thanks to an extremely attentive crew, travelers will appreciate a high-quality service for the entire trip.

Activities and experiences when traveling with the Mekong Eyes cruise:

On the cruiser Mekong Eyes River, tourists will find a harmonious blend of the elegant beauty of the ship and the peaceful landscape of the Mekong Delta, participate in exciting explorations and join many interesting activities.

A Mekong cruise with Mekong Eyes River Cruise could be the highlight of your trip to Vietnam that you will not forget.

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5. Dragon Eyes River cruise – Cruise on the small channels of the Mekong River

Dragon Eyes River Cruise is one of the deluxe cruises in the Mekong River. The twin boats Dragon Eyes I and Dragon Eyes II were built in the traditional riverboat style of the Mekong Delta. Dragon Eyes is designed to serve families, couples or small groups who want to enjoy a private holiday in the Mekong River.

Dragon Eyes River Cruise Services:

In terms of public areas, the cruise has one indoor room, one solarium, one covered restaurant and one outdoor bar. We ensure that Dragon Eyes is big enough to offer you ample space for privacy and relaxation. Each Dragon Eyes offers its passengers a space of 100 m2. Five crews including captain, sailor, service personnel, guide and cruise director will provide high-quality services for you. You will always be served by a big smile and a warm attitude.

Activities and experiences when traveling with the Dragon Eyes River cruise:

By choosing Dragon Eye River Cruise as a companion, you can have different tour options in the Mekong River with different itineraries. The elegant, thin and shallow hulls allow Dragon Eyes to cross the small canals of the Mekong river that is hard to be explored by larger cruisers. You can find a serene life on the river that makes the Mekong delta so unique. Besides, you can participate in many thrilling activities for entertainment.

If you are a cruise lover, start planning with us for your relaxing tailor-made vacation in Vietnam.

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6. The “Toum Tiou River” cruise

Discovering Indochina along the Mekong River with Toum Tiou Cruise is one of the perfect choices. Passengers have the opportunity not only to contemplate the majestic Mekong River but also to sail in close contact with the river bank. You will have an unobstructed view of the pleasantly rustic existence of the people nearby.

Toum Tiou River Cruise Services:

Toum Tiou cruise offers an unparalleled experience on the Mekong river cruise with the discovery of spectacular views of the wildlife and flora system here, along with the daily life of the local populations and cultures of Cambodia and Vietnam. Toum Tiou Cruise cruises also offer great comfort with additional services in the cabin including a private lounge, air conditioning, wi-fi system, en-suite bathroom with hot/ cold private shower, complimentary tea and coffee. The cozy cabins are equipped with the highest specifications with noble wood in elegant colonial style

Activities and experiences when traveling with the Toum Tiou River cruise:

Traveling with one of the best cruises on the Mekong river, passengers will surely feel at ease with the best services and facilities. In public areas, you will have the opportunity to join the lessons of the history of Vietnam and Cambodia. Otherwise, you can relax in the library with a variety of books, magazines and novels. Toum Tiou Cruise is truly an ideal choice for those who love to travel to experience the Mekong Delta from floating villages to the Vietnamese and Cambodian lifestyle around the Mekong River Delta.

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II. TOUR MEKONG CRUISE

1. Tour Mekong Cruise in 3 days

Mekong River is considered as the best river in Southeast Asia when the culture from 3 countries Viet Nam, Cambodia, Laos mingle. Mekong River was combined off blindly beautiful landscape and attractive cultural diversity. Some UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Luang Prabang in Laos express the illustrious past of destination surrounding here. Mekong River Cruise tour in 3 days will offer you a variety of options. The special things that you will receive in this tour are staying in accommodation at Victoria, staying twin-bed or double-bed cabin locating on the main deck, having romantic and luxury lunch and breakfast on board with the fresh and cold of soft drink.

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2. Vietnam and Cambodia water way in 8 days

Different from the Mekong River tour in 3 days, this tour includes domestic flight from Phnom Penh to Seam Reap with 3 days in Vietnam and 5 days to enjoy Cambodia. The tour is especially suitable for visitors who want to spend their time for a long holiday after a long day of hard working or a romantic honeymoon trip after getting married. The trip includes roundtrip airport transfer, boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake, and many other options, which you can check out for more detailed information at:

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3. My Tho – Mekong Delta gateway day trip

My Tho – Mekong Delta tour is one day tour that you can enjoy the truly unique Mekong Delta lifestyle just in one day trip. Even though one day is not a long time for a trip, you still can experience seeing the sunset slightly going down to the edge of the water from the roof of a boat. The tour includes a private pick-up service as well as drop-off service with a private car or van, a boat trip with English or French speaking guide, and lunch as stated in the program.

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4. Authentic Mekong with Tcharokaa Cruise in two days

This classic boat was built following the traditional style that is close to the old Mekong Delta boats. Outstanding advantage of Tcharokaa Cruise is the ability to cruise along the small canals of Mekong River that large cruise cannot explore, which help to find the serene riverfront life of Mekong River. However, at the same time, the boats are large enough to give you a comfortable zone and the luxury feeling. This “floating hotel” will not disappoint you with its privacy and well-design cabins. In the first day, you transfer to Cai Be. The boat continues to move to Sa Dec at lunch and continue sailing to Long Xuyen. In the second day, you will be surprised with a sunrise cruise to local floating market which is wholesale market instead of a tourist market.

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5. Mekong delta explorer and exist to Cambodia with Tcharokaa three days

This tour is considered to the “Authentic Mekong with Tcharokaa Cruise in two days”. The difference is in day 3, you will have a chance to explore the local market in Chau Doc by bike riding. In Chau Doc Town, you are free to experience the local life in this beautiful and tranquil village.

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About Lux Travel DMC

Lux Travel DMC offers high-end packages in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand. The company has 15 years of experience in travel industry and specialize in high-quality vacation. To bring the most authentic travel experience to the customers, Lux Travel DMC has the experts with thorough knowledge about all aspects of travel and care skills. You will be supported by the team in many different languages: English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish.

If you want to spend time in the poetic Quang Binh or in other beautiful places in Vietnam, contact us right now.

<p>The post Mekong River Cruises – what is your best choice? first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

Along with Long Xuyen City, Chau Doc is one of the two cities in An Giang province that is quite important in the economic development of the Mekong Delta. Chau Doc Vietnam also has the Tinh Bien International Border Gate, which leads to Cambodia. The city has been investing in good infrastructure for several years because of the increased footfalls of the travelers. As before, most visitors know Chau Doc because Ba Chua Xu Temple is a sacred pilgrimage site. But now, Chau Doc Vietnam is known for many other great things such as beautiful scenery, economy and tourism, cultural diversity and a transit point to visit many neighborhoods and travel to Cambodia.

I. Best Time to Travel to Chau Doc Vietnam

Like other places in the West of Vietnam, Chau Doc has a tropical monsoon climate, with two prominent seasons, the rainy season and the sunny season. The weather in Chau Doc Vietnam is generally suitable for visitors to visit year round. In the rainy season from May to October, Chau Doc often receives heavy rain leading to extensive floods from August to November. If you travel in this season, you will feel the daily life of Chau Doc local people, but you also have to pay attention carefully if you are not used to the rain. The rest of the seasons in Chau Doc, are usually sunny and hot, but the temperature is not too high and it does not interfere with the tourism.

II. Famous Locations in Chau Doc Vietnam That You Should Not Miss

1. Tay An Temple

From Chau Doc to Sam Mountain crossroads in Vinh Ta Commune, you will see a pagoda at the foot of Mount Sam, which is Tay An Temple. The pagoda features the architectural style of the Indian temple, in addition to its natural landscape, creating a stunning beauty overall.

Tay An Temple is also known as the ancient Tay An (Tay An co tu), a Buddhist temple located at the junction and adjacent to Sam Mountain. The pagoda’s height is 284m above sea level and had been beautifully designed in “tam” style, with Indian art and Islamic art combined with ancient Vietnamese temple architecture. Tay An Temple is not only a place of pilgrimage and worship but also a famous tourist attraction of An Giang.

2. Chau Phu Temple

Dinh Chau Phu (Chau Phu Temple) represents the essence and the typical architecture bearing a bold imprint of the Nguyen dynasty, and the traditional style of the communal village of South Vietnam. So, Chau Phu Temple was the decision of the Ministry of Culture to recognize national architectural monuments in 1988. Every year, the temple holds a ceremony on Nguyen Huu Canh death’s anniversary on the 10th and 11th of May according to the lunar calendar and celebrates the death anniversary of Thoai Ngoc on June 6 of the lunar calendar. Every festival attracts crowds to worship.

Dinh Chau Phu is on Tran Hung Dao – Nguyen Van Thoai Street (Chau Phu A Ward), worshiping Cardinal Nguyen Huu Canh. He was the one who made many great achievements and was conferred the title by the king dynasty: Admiral Marshal of the Spirit, Noble God, the Nation of the Gods And Feast.

3. Chau Doc Floating Market

The most unique tourist attraction in Chau Doc is the floating village, the cultural characteristics of the river. Coming to this place, you will find it interesting to feed the fish, drop bait down the raft and suddenly a school of fish jumped up for food and to scare you, which looks very exciting.

Boats and junks are the primary means of transportation for every family in these floating villages. Here, each raft like a connecting apartment stretches along the two riversides. Each owner has at least 3-4 rafts, and they usually have a raft living side by side. In particular, recently, some people tend to raft down rivers for settlement in the land. The life of the family is encapsulated on the raft, 4m in width, 7-8m in length.

The scenery on the river is cooler and cooler when it is dark. At this time the activities in the village are no longer busy, the family gathered together after a day of hard work. Floating villages floats on the Bassac River. The light from the raft houses reflecting in the water looks like the city at night floating on the river, the scenery is highly romantic. If you leave Chau Doc without ever coming to the floating village, it is a mistake.

Source: wikipedia.org

4. Hang Pagoda

Hang Pagoda, also known as Phuoc Dien Pagoda, is about 1 km away from Thoai Ngoc Hau Temple, Ba Chua Xu Temple of Mount Sam. It has a history of over 100 years. With quiet space, clear vision, Hang Pagoda is considered a spiritual tourist destination and is rarely ignored by visitors in the city.

Hang Pagoda is located on the slopes of Sam Mountain, which is famous for its scenery and is a national historical monument in Vietnam. Separated from the cliffs of Mount Sam at an altitude of hundreds of meters, in a pure place, Hang Pagoda is a stately ancient place with many legends, transmissions from one life to another, creating an attraction with travelers. The pagoda was built between 1840 and 1845. Amidst the natural beauty of nature, the pagoda has been cultivated by humans and today Hang Pagoda is an attractive place for tourists.

5. Vinh Te Canal

In the Chau Doc tours in particular and the Western tours exploring in general, Vinh Te Canal is a long story full of attractions from the formation, to the value and its present. The canal brings the life of the people of the river. Vinh Te canal is located in both An Giang and Kien Giang provinces, with a length of nearly 90 km connecting Chau Doc with Ha Tien estuary. The canal was completed in 5 years from 1819 to 1824. The canal was made under the direction of Mr. Thoai Ngoc Hau and local people by the primitive tools and mostly with hands.

6. Sam Mountain

Sam Mountain is a famous tourist destination in An Giang, famous for sacredness. So tourists throughout the country often come here for pilgrimage and worship. Do not miss the trip to Sam Mountain and visit and the pagoda in An Giang, which will give you an overview of the faith of people here, as well as the neighboring provinces.

Mount Sam is 284m high in the delta, the road is about 5 km long for the car running around to the top of the mountain. Mount Sam and other mountains in the Seven Mountains are the highlight of the natural landscape, which is very romantic in the Southwest. According to the legend, mountains have many spirits, so people from all over the country assemble here to worship. As this is the sacred mountain, there are nearly 200 temples, pagodas, hermitages scattered at the foot of mountains, slopes and at the top. At the top of the mountain, there is a fortress built by the French.

7. Thoai Ngoc Hau Tomb

Thoai Ngoc Hau Tomb (Vinh Te Commune, Chau Doc Town) is one of many monuments at the foot of Mount Sam. There is a temple of Thoai Ngoc Hau, his tomb and his two wives, which date back to the 20th century. The magnificent scene of the Thoai Ngoc Vien Tomb reminds visitors of the past, the merits of the predecessors, which impressed deeply, nostalgic for what cannot find the past.

8. Ba Chua Xu Temple

Located at the foot of Mount Sam, the shrine was built with the architecture of a blooming lotus-shaped tower, three-tiered roofs, green tiles and bold artistic patterns. Every year, from 23rd to 27th of the lunar calendar, the people here hold the festival of Via Ba in order to pray and commemorate the merits of the helpers of the people, bringing the rain and wind.

According to the statistics of the Department of Culture – Sports – Tourism of An Giang: “Every year, Ba Chua Xu Temple attracted nearly 2 million people visiting here for worship and pilgrimage. Tourists come from all over the country, creating a festive, vibrant, crowded celebration and lasting for months. It is the mysteries of the statue of Ba Chua Xu, the mysterious stories, sacred about her life which was passed from death to death, was ingrained in the minds of millions of people in plain and the surrounding area, making the festival of Via Ba always attracts many people.

Source: alamy.com

9. Cham Community

If you want to visit the Cham community, travel through Chau Giang ferry to Con Tien, where Cham communities live in An Giang. There is a peaceful village with mosques and many unique traditional stilts.

Cham people live in stilt houses, the column is often made of barnyard trees, high off the head. Every house has a wooden ladder, used to step up the house. Underneath the floor is usually empty, sometimes the owners leave it with little wood. Hardly you can see furniture inside the house, so when guests come home, the host spread the mat or carpet for the guests to sit on the floor.

Come to Cham village, visitors have the opportunity to know more about culture, handicraft products and enjoy the unique taste of the place.

III. THE WAYS FOR TRAVELERS TO ARRIVE AT CHAU DOC

1.The transportation to get to Chau Doc

The distance from Chau Doc to some provinces in the nearby area

The distance from Chau Doc to the Western provinces

Distance from Chau Doc to Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring provinces

a. Choosing a coach to arrive at Chau Doc

From Ho Chi Minh City, it takes you about 6 hours to get to Chau Doc. There are many bus companies running this route, so it is very easy to buy tickets at Mien Tay Bus Station.

Address: No.395 Kinh Duong Vuong Street, An Lac Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City

Telephone:         (+84) 283 875 2953

                           (+84) 283 877 6594

Here is the list of some bus companies offer this service:

The price to go from Ho Chi Minh City to Chau Doc is in a range from VND 120,000 to VND 150,000.
From the neighboring provinces to Ho Chi Minh City such as Da Lat, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, Vung Tau, Phan Rang, if you want to go to Chau Doc, you often have to pick up a coach from this place to Ho Chi Minh City then pick up the car to Chau Doc.

From Da Nang, Hanoi: You can book the air ticket to Ho Chi Minh City, or take the train to Ho Chi Minh City. After that, take a coach to Chau Doc. You can also rent a car from Ho Chi Minh City to Chau Doc if you go with a group of friends or family.

Source: yeuphuot.com

b. Choosing a motorbike to arrive at Chau Doc

If you are interested in experiencing a more interesting trip, you can come to Chau Doc on a motorbike but you have to be an experienced driver to ensure your safety. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City will follow the National Highway 1A towards Tien Giang, via My Thuan Bridge to Highway 80 to Sa Dec, continue through Vam Cong ferry to Long Xuyen city, then follow Highway 90 to Chau Doc.
There is another way to explore the border. This road will follow Highway 62 to Binh Hiep border gate, continue to follow the road leading to Hong Ngu – Tan Chau, after that, you will reach Chau Doc.

2. The transportation to get around Chau Doc

Bike: You can rent bicycles at the tour companies in the center of Chau Doc or at the tour desk of the hotel. Visiting the center of Chau Doc by bike is also a great experience to try.
Pedicab: The Western provinces used to travel by this transportation, but now it is not as popular as before. You can rent a pedicab in the center, near the market or in front of the hotel.

Bus: Chau Doc is a very popular place to visit, so you can use a bicycle or motorbike. In Chau Doc, there is a bus from the center to Sam Mountain, so you can use the bus. The central bus station is also very easy to find.

Taxi and motorbike: As in other cities, you can rent a motorbike in the travel agency in the city center, or tour desk at the hotel. If you want to take a taxi, you can contact some of these following taxi companies.

Boat, ferry: To visit some areas such as Bung Binh Thien, fishing village, Cham village in Chau Giang, you will need water transport. You can pick up a ferry or charter boat at Chau Doc Tourist Port.

Address: No.3 Le Loi Street, Chau Phu Ward, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province

Telephone: (+84) 296 355 0949

IV. SOME OF THE ACCOMMODATIONS TO STAY AT CHAU DOC

In Chau Doc, there are not many hotels, but you still can find hotels in Chau Doc from cheap to luxurious to suit your needs. There are two areas that tourists most often rent to travel is the center of the town and Sam mountain. According to the review on booking.com, these are top 4 hotels in Chau Doc. You can take a look and make up your mind with some of the best accommodations in Chau Doc.

1. Victoria Chau Doc Hotel – Luxury hotel in Chau Doc

Address: No.1 Le Loi Street, Chau Doc Town, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province
Standard: 4.5 stars

Situated on the banks of Bass River, Victoria Chau Doc Hotel offers cozy accommodation with river views, famous floating markets, and fish raft villages, as well as Cham villages. There are many options for customers: dipping in the outdoor pool or having a meal at the on-site restaurant.
All rooms and suites feature large windows that offer plenty of natural light. The accommodation also provides a flat-screen cable TV and a mini-fridge. Some rooms also have a private balcony. There are also private bathrooms, along with shower facilities and slippers.
Ideally located on the rooftop terrace., The Victoria Spa offers 5 massage beds with scenic views, where you can see the peaceful Hau River. Ask the staff at the 24-hour front desk, they will help you with different services, such as currency exchange, luggage storage, and bicycle rental.

2. Victoria Nui Sam Lodge – The best mid-range hotel in Chau Doc with luxury furniture

Address: Vinh Sam 1 Stress, Nui Sam Ward, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province
Standard: 3.5 stars

Victoria Nui Sam Lodge, which is on Mount Samm, features an outdoor pool with scenic natural surroundings, as well as free Wifi in both rooms and public areas. The accommodation is about 7 km from Chau Doc Market and Chau Doc River, which is accessible to Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
All rooms provide a cable TV, minibar, and coffee or tea making facilities. Private bathrooms contain shower facilities, toiletries, and a hairdryer. The French doors lead to the private terrace with views overlooking the tranquil nature. La Giang Restaurant at the hotel serves local Vietnamese dishes along with Asian and Western taste. Refreshing beverages are also available.
Guests can take full advantage of the business center, banquet or meeting facilities. The hotel also offers services such as laundry, currency exchange, and luggage storage.

Source: themurrayguesthouse.com

3. Murray Guesthouse – Nice and comfortable accommodation in Chau Doc

Address: No.11-15 Truong Dinh Street, Chau Phu B Ward, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province
Standard: 2 stars

Located in the city center, Murray Guesthouse takes a 10-minute walk from the banks of the Bass River. Throughout the house, free Wifi access is available, along with free motorbike parking.
The room is simply furnished, which has air condition and tiled floors, a wardrobe with a safety deposit box, minibar, cable TV, desk and seating area. The private bathrooms offer a shower Murray Guesthouse also provides luggage storage, laundry, and ironing services. Guests will enjoy free billiards. Riverboat tickets to Cambodia are available, as well as information about local buses and local destinations.
The dining area is located in the breakfast lounge and offers a variety of Vietnamese cuisines.
The guest house is 800 m far away to 30/4 Park and 2 km to Chau Doc Bus Station. To get to Can Tho City, it takes about 3 hours to drive away, while Ho Chi Minh City is 270 km away.

Source: booking.com

4. Hung Cuong Hotel – A cheap hotel with a beautiful view of Chau Doc

Address: No.96 Dong Da Street, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province
Standard: 2 stars

Hung Cuong Hotel is a modern hotel offering air-conditioned rooms with a view of Chau Doc River and offers free Wifi. The hotel has a restaurant, 24-hour reception, and free private parking.
The hotel is 500 m away from Chau Doc Market and 84 km from Rach Gia Airport.
At the hotel, you will find all the rooms are equipped with a flat-screen cable TV, a desk, and a minibar. There is also a seating area and a private bathroom with shower, hairdryer, and free toiletries.
Hung Cuong Hotel also offers ticket service, tour desk, and luggage storage.

V. POPULAR DISHES IN CHAU DOC – A MUST-TRY LIST

1. Local dishes in Chau Doc which cannot be found in somewhere else

a. Bun ca Chau Doc -: Fish rice noodles Chau Doc

Coming to Chau Doc, the most famous thing here is the fish sauce. It is also a bowl of fish noodles, but the taste in Chau Doc is stronger than other places. To make the sauce in the water bowl but not left the fishy smell, the artisan cook here experienced through life. They must have the secret to keep the bouillon sweet and not stinking. In addition to the goldfish broccoli, the chef also adds pork rolls, spinach meat with vegetables. Take a piece of fish sauce having the sugar with chopped chili, then take a spoon of water to enjoy all the deliciousness of this dish.

b. Banh bo thot not -: Steamed palm sugar rice cake

The steamed palm sugar rice cake is hot, combined with the sweetness of sugar, the coconut, mixed with the aroma of the jaggery is an unforgettable experience for diners. This is a specialty that should not miss when visiting Chau Doc.

c. Tung lo mo -: A special kind of beef sausage

This is the traditional dishes of the Cham people in An Giang, which is also known as sausage. This product is made from the intestines, fat, and cow’s thighs that have been cut up from the bone. After deodorizing with alcohol and ginger, the cook mixes the beef in proportion with the traditional spices of the Cham. Then they stuff this mixture into cow’s gut and expose to sunlight for 3-4 days. The most delicious “tung lo mo” is grilled on the charcoal stove with cinnamon, papaya, cilantro and dipping sauce. The common price of one kilo of beef sausage is at about VND 160,000 – VND 180,000.

d. Typical dishes made from sesbania sesban flowers (Bong dien dien)

Sesbania sesban flowers are the popular food of Chau Doc people, especially in floating season. They can be cooked with sour soup, pickled or served as raw vegetables. When coming to An Giang in the rising season, everyone will know about sesban sour soup. You will taste the sweet of the vegetable and fish, the sour of the tamarind and the spicy that the chili brings about.

They also use sesban flowers to make fried shrimps or traditional pancakes. When watching the rain pouring down outside in the middle day of the flooding season, a bowl of sesban soup and a pancake are the best bet.

e. Goi sau dau – Neem salad: A specialty food of An Giang

Neem is a species of wild plants, mostly found in Chau Doc and Bay Nui area of An Giang. The neem leaf is small, long and thin. When it is young, the color of the sprout is purple. Neem is processed into many dishes, the most common is dipping in the fish sauce. It is considered rare food in the world. The salty flavor of the sauce in addition to the bitter taste, the sweet back of the leaves will make the taste is hard to describe. The more you eat, the more pleasure you feel.

2. Some places to dine when you are in Chau Doc

a. Some restaurants offer the Western taste for foreign travelers

Bassac Restaurant

Address: No.1 Le Loi Street, Chau Doc Town, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province
Opening hours: 06:00 – 22:00

This is the most urbane dining experience. The menu goes around delicious international dishes such as roast lamb and seared duck breast, some dishes with French style like provençale tart, gratin dauphinoise, as well as Vietnamese dishes (grilled squid with green peppercorns). To finish the meal, the apple pie with cinnamon ice cream is the best choice.

Memory Delicatessen

Address: No.57 Nguyen Huu Canh Street, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province
Opening hours: 06:00 – 22:00

This lustrous cafe-restaurant attracts nearby trendies. It is memorable for its excellent melange of global dishes, from the superb pizzas topped with imported substances to the aromatic vegetable curry with coconut milk and lemongrass. There are also various kinds of fresh juices.

b. Traditional restaurant with Vietnamese cuisines

Chau Doc Covered Market

Address: Bach Dang Road, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province
Opening hours: 07:00 – 21:00

This is a local market which you can find anything you want. A typical market sells everything, so a lot of Vietnamese food is easy to find. But not all the staff in the market know English. It is not an uncomfortable place unless you are an adventurous person who wants to explore any hidden corner of the local lifestyle.

Dong Song

Address: No.7 Le Loi Street, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province

The restaurant brings about riverside atmosphere with a wide range of menu. It offers fish and seafood dishes such as squid with chili and lemongrass, tamarind clams, steamed whole red snapper and so on.

Sau Hiep

Address: No.398 Nguyen Van Thoai Street, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province
Opening hours: 08:00 – 21:00

It is 1 km away from the town and on the way to Sam Mountain. The restaurant offers many dishes suitable for street food style lovers.

VI. About Lux Travel DMC Ltd.

Lux Travel DMC Ltd. is the first luxury tour operator in Vietnam. We have a 15-year-experience in the travel industry. The company has won many national and international prizes and awards for its high-end travel services. Lux Travel DMC offers private holiday packages to Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries. Consequently, Chau Doc tour by Lux Travel DMC is definitely different and stand out in the crowd. Share your interest with the staff of Lux Travel DMC. The experienced team will clarify the information and give you an unforgettable vacation at Chau Doc.

So if you are planning a trip to Vietnam in general or to Chau Doc in particular, contact us right here.

<p>The post CHAU DOC VIETNAM- A-Z TRAVEL GUIDE first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

Don’t be too rushed

Mekong Delta is a big area with many provinces. Each province has its own unique characters that make you surprised once you step at. But it is very difficult to visit all provinces in just one day because it takes quite long to transfer from one to another. In that way, you have little time time for each place and don’t have enough time to experience and enjoy fun activities. Therefore, list your places you want to visit most and try to adapt it to your time. Don’t be too rushed. There are many interesting things ahead of you!

Try to get more information

In many cases, you choose a tour company to help you set up the trip to discover Mekong Delta in your holiday to Vietnam. It is not bad choice. However, try to get some information for your own first before booking a tour. You can review the tour about the time and itinerary: how many people in your group, how many places you will visit, how you transfer between places, how long you can send exploring on each place, which activities you can take part in. You can find out which part is suitable or not and it is worth your money.

Consider to book a private tour

It is another option for your trip exploring Mekong Delta. You can take a tour with only your friends and family by private cars with private guide. You can arrange the tours as you want: place to visit, the pace to move, the time to spend. It makes you less worried about going around the city for 1 or 2 hours just because some clients need transferring to another places.

Cpnclusion

With many years of experiences in luxury travel industry, Lux Travel DMC plans and conducts any Vietnam holiday packages including Hanoi, Halong Bay and other beautiful places in Vietnam. We are award winning DMC, specialized in Indochina luxury holidays and cover any trip within Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand.

<p>The post 3 tips to make your Mekong day trip in your holiday to Vietnam to be unforgettable experiences first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>