Top Outstanding Experiences You Can Expect When Taking a Mekong River cruise

The Mekong River is one of the most iconic waterways in Southeast Asia, spanning over 4,000 kilometers through six different countries. It's not just a river, but a way of life for the millions of people who call the Mekong River region home. A Mekong River cruise in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos is an excellent way to discover the beauty, culture, and history of this fascinating region. From visiting ancient temples to exploring floating markets, a Mekong River cruise provides the opportunity to experience the best that the region has to offer. In this article, we'll explore the top ten experiences you can enjoy when discovering the Mekong River on a cruise in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.

1. Experiencing the floating life

The Mekong Delta is known for its unique floating life. Taking a river cruise on Mekong, you will have a chance to visit floating villages, stilt houses, and vibrant markets along the waterway. A cruise along the river will allow you to understand more about the daily life of the local people, which is truly peaceful, different from busy life in city. Besides, you’ll be able to shop for unique souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and interact with the warm-hearted people on floating market. These bustling markets are where locals gather to sell and trade their goods, often from traditional wooden boats filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, and other products, which are picturesque.

2. Discovering the historical culture

The mighty Mekong is rich in history and home to many important cultural sites and temples along Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. A Mekong River cruise provides an excellent opportunity to visit these sites and learn about the history and traditions of the region. The most popular and complete Mekong cruise combines opulent world heritage sites in Vietnam and Cambodia including places rarely visited. For example, spending time to take a visit of ancient traders’ villa and pagoda, admire the beauty of  the Angkor Wat temple complex or walk around the ancient city of Luang Prabang.

3. Witnessing the Stunning Scenery

One of other primary reasons to embark on a Mekong River cruise is to witness the stunning natural scenery that surrounds the river. The Mekong River is known for its rich biodiversity and unique landscapes, including lush jungles, towering cliffs, and serene waterways. As you cruise down the river, you'll have the chance to take in these beautiful views from the comfort of your boat, and even participate in shore excursions to get up close and personal with the natural wonders of the region, such as walking through the lush greens of orchards and rice paddies, or biking along the river to a rural village.

4. Enjoying simple delicate cuisine

It is said that the best ways to experience a new culture is through its food. And the Mekong delta region is home to some of the most delicious and unique cuisines in the world. A Mekong River cruise will allow you to sample a wide variety of local dishes, including southern Vietnamese dishes being sweeter due to the growth of sugar cane and coconut, or spicy dishes influenced from Cambodia. In addition, you'll also have the chance to participate in cooking classes and learn how to make some of these delicious dishes by yourself.

5. Meeting the Friendly Locals

The Mekong people are genuine and warm-hearted. They really add to the Mekong Delta tour experience. Contrasts to modern life in crowded busy city, the people in the Mekong Delta are traditional rustic. Traveling on the Mekong cruise, you will have a chance to enjoy "Đờn ca tài tử” (Folk Music), visit home-made handicrafts family and immerse into the rural life here with hospitable people, which gives you peaceful feeling.

6. Learning about traditional craftsmanship

Since centuries, people along the Mekong region have developed special skills of traditional craftsmanship. On the Mekong Cruise, you will be able to visit local workshops and see firsthand how these products are made, as well as support local businesses by purchasing handmade goods. For example, you are escorted by a long sampan to Cai Rang floating market and noodle producing family or coconut candy.

7. Relaxing on a Comfortable Boat

Every Mekong Cruise offers different facilities to provide comfort for travelers. From the sun deck, with bar, and the resort-style pool, to the relaxing spa and wellness centre, gym and spacious cabins, every conceivable need has been catered for. Whether you're traveling with friends or family, a Mekong River cruise is the perfect way to enjoy a luxurious and stress-free vacation.

8. Unpacking once

If you are finding all-in-all package, river cruising is ideal option for you. You only need to embark on cruise and enjoy your journey. There is no need to repack your suitcase daily, change from hotel to hotel or check flight between countries. All are included in cruise package, including laundry facilities onboard for long cruise.

A Mekong River cruise in Vietnam Cambodia, and Laos is an unforgettable experience that provides the opportunity to explore a region rich in natural beauty, culture, and tradition. From witnessing stunning scenery to sampling local cuisine and interacting with friendly locals, there's something for everyone on a Mekong River cruise. Whether you're traveling with friends or family, a Mekong River cruise is the perfect way to enjoy a luxurious and stress-free vacation that you'll never forget.