The Mekong Delta or Nine Dragon River Delta in Vietnamese is one the must-see destinations in Vietnam. It covers an area of over 40,500 square kilometers of south western Vietnam. This large region includes some provinces like Can Tho, Ca Mau, Ben Tre, Dong Thap etc. which are also popular tourist attractions.
The well-known “Loney Planet” used to call this area “a world afloat”. This name comes from the fact that the region is covered by water and everything seems to happen on the surface of the river rather on land. Here you can see houses, markets, and even schools are floating. This is not something that you can normally see.
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| Floating Markets in Mekong Delta |
The delta is typical for a tropical climate with two alternate seasons: dry and rainy. In the dry season, which runs from November through April, the weather is quite favorable. The water is calm, the temperature is cool and there is very little rain. It’s perfect for an outdoor trip and travel around. However, the Mekong Delta reveals its best in the rainy season. In the rainy season, from May to October, it’s hot and humid. Flood is possible in this season but it’s not too severe. People here even appreciate it because it flushes away everything and brings a new face to the region. It’s also known as the business season when some of the greatest tropical fruits are only available at this time of year. Bottom line, the best time to visit Mekong Delta is probably the first few months from February to April. And don’t forget to check the regional weather forecast before your trip.
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| Vietnamese village on the Mekong |
The Mekong Delta area is accessible from Ho Chi Minh City. You can take local buses or choose to get on a tour. A bus ride from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta takes about 4 hours with a very cheap price, only 3 to 4 dollars per ticket. You can take a boat to get around and discover the water world. You can even easily get to another neighboring country Cambodia via this waterway.
Floating markets are one the most characteristic specialty in Mekong Delta. Shopping in floating markets might be the most memorable experience that you can have. You can find many things here from foods to basic necessities. Try to get around on a boat and start to buy some tropical fruits to feel like a true local.
The Mekong Delta cuisine is the combination of many regions. The southwest of Vietnam is famous for being the heaven of the tropical fruits. Here you can find the juiciest and the freshest types of fruit. There are many things to enjoy, but remember to try the coconut as the most significant one.
Grill fish is also a popular dish in the Mekong Delta. Fish could be cooked right after the catch and served right away to retain its freshness.
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| Elephant Ear Fish |
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Tags: must-see destinations in Vietnam, where to go in Vietnam, Mekong delta travel
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