Joanna James
From catching glimpses of river dolphins, exploring floating markets, soaking up the quaint charm of rural villages, and taking in ancient temple complexes, a Mekong River Cruise is an adventure-rich holiday in itself! Considering booking yourself a tour? Then here are five must-see and do things that you cannot afford to miss during your time on the Mekong River.
Arguably the crown jewel of the Mekong River tour, the Angkor Wat stands just outside the city of Siem Reap. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Angkor Wat also happens to be the world's largest temple complex. The religious site includes a three-mile moat, concentric walls, and the main temple. Today, the temple stands as a much-lauded representation of traditional Khmer architecture and is iconic of Cambodia. Do keep in mind that, the temple is still an active one, so one should cover the shoulders and legs when entering.
Located just outside of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cai Be floating market is world-famous! Here locals from the surrounding areas gather to sell their fresh produce, seafood catches, and other local goods. The market is also opened later in the morning to accommodate visitors and, there are plenty of locals who offers tours of the floating market. So consider taking a sampan, a small boat, and make your way down the lazy waterways while you sample local delicacies and choose souvenirs to take back home. If you have planned to go on a river cruise, Mekong river has many to offer; such as the Mekong Kingdoms that usually factor in a stop here.
Located in the heart of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is a sprawling cultural hotspot featuring an amalgamation of international influences from China, France, and more. The capital city is home to the stunning Royal Palace, where one will be able to take in some fine architecture. Do consider factoring in a cycle tour of the city, as this is a great way to get a good glimpse of the metropolitan while also getting some exercise during your holiday. Afterward, head out on Phnom Penh's many street food tours to sample all types of noodles and other local delicacies.
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is usually the endpoint of most Mekong River tours. A representation of a vibrant present and a storied past, Ho Chi Minh is the largest city in Vietnam. Here you can visit historic temples, take in the famous War Remnants Museum and end your day at the many chic rooftop bars found in plenty in the center of the city.
A modern and cosmopolitan city, Hanoi is Vietnam's capital. There is plenty to see and discover here from numerous parks, pagodas, and temples. Visiting the Ngoc Son, a Confucian Temple, and the Ho Han Kiem Lake is an absolute must. Another must-visit attraction is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the resting place of Vietnam's revolutionary leader and prime minister during the Vietnam war.
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