Discover the enchanting Mekong Delta, where the Chau Doc River converges with the legendary Mekong. This region is a melting pot of cultures, including Khmer, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Cham communities. Despite the challenges of seasonal flooding, the resilient locals have thrived, with catfish farming as the economic backbone, contributing significantly to Vietnam's seafood industry. Join us as we delve into the vibrant life on the river, the unique floating villages, and the rich history and traditions that make the Mekong Delta a must-visit destination.
In the An Giang province, the Mekong Delta's susceptibility to flooding has shaped a unique way of life. Unlike other provinces where rice cultivation dominates, here catfish farming reigns supreme, accounting for a substantial portion of Vietnam's seafood exports. The western banks of the Chau Doc River are dotted with nearly 2,000 floating homes, where families live and work above their fish cages. These structures range from robust brick and wooden frames to more delicate bamboo and coconut leaf designs.
Local resident Nguyen Van De offers a glimpse into this aquatic lifestyle. His floating home is equipped with modern amenities such as satellite dishes, televisions, and even motorcycles. Remarkably, De can harvest up to five tonnes of catfish within eight months, and his children have easy access to education with a short boat ride to Chau Doc town.
Beyond the floating villages lies Con Tien (Fairy Island), home to a 3,000-strong Cham community with roots dating back to 1691, as evidenced by the Mubarak Mosque. The island greets visitors with a souvenir shop selling exquisite Cham silk handbags and scarves, handcrafted using traditional weaving techniques. Ysa, a local entrepreneur, has been weaving since she was 15 and now employs 20 women from the village, ensuring a stable income and preserving a vital cultural practice.
Chau Doc town is a vibrant hub of ethnic and religious diversity. Here, one can find places of worship for Confucianism, Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism, Sunni Islam, Christianity, and indigenous religions like Cao Dai and Hoa Hao. The Ba Chua Xu Temple on Sam Mountain is a testament to the area's rich spiritual history. Legend has it that a red stone statue of the Holy Mother of the Region, discovered by Siamese men, could only be moved by nine maiden girls, leading to the establishment of a shrine that continues to draw pilgrims annually.
The Tan An Pagoda, built in 1847 with its Muslim–Indian architectural influences, is another must-see. Although unassuming from the outside, the pagoda houses vivid and lifelike statues and carvings that captivate visitors.
For those eager to experience the wonders of the Mekong Delta, consider the following tours:
The Mekong Delta offers a unique and immersive experience that showcases Vietnam's cultural diversity and resilience. Whether by boat, bike, or on foot, the delta's rich tapestry of life awaits exploration.
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA Unveils 2012 Vietnam Travel Photo Contest
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA), a premier adventure travel company in Indochina, has initiated a captivating photo contest titled "Vietnam in your heart is…" for global travelers. This contest invites participants to submit their most memorable travel photos from Vietnam, offering a chance to win exceptional prizes including luxury cruises and exclusive tours. The contest, which runs from November 12, 2012, to January 31, 2013, aims to showcase the unique beauty and cultural richness of Vietnam through the eyes of its visitors.
Exploring the Thrills of Adventure Travel
Adventure travel is not just about scaling mountains or rafting through raging rivers; it encompasses a broad spectrum of activities that can range from the serene, such as wine tasting tours, to the extreme, like motorcycling across the Ho Chi Minh trail in Vietnam. This form of travel is about stepping out of the familiar and embracing the unknown, offering enriching experiences that differ markedly from typical vacation pursuits.
Vietnam in Top 10 Cycle Routes Recommended by National Geographic
Vietnam's scenic route from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City has been recognized as one of the top ten cycle routes globally by National Geographic. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights the route's stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and challenging terrain, making it a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts.
