Itinerary day 1: HCMC – Cai Be – Can Tho
6:30am Pick up at your hotel to start driving towards Cai Be by car/van via the Trung Luong Expressway. Upon arrival in Cai Be, have a boat ride to the remaining site of a very renowned wholesale floating market on the Tien River many years ago. This site entitles you to learn about the local trading habits that have changed due to the age of the modern society when more terrestrial transportation and high-technique of agriculture have dominated everywhere. See how diverse the area is and how rich orchard gardens are, which makes it the basket of fruit in the lower part of the Mekong River.
We then take you to a small village where you will uncover the beauty of Ba Kiet ancient house and get to know about the indigenous culture. We make a short visit to a small family business where the locals are making coconut fudges and crispy rice popcorn. Enjoy some fresh local fruits and the slow rhythms of Southern Vietnamese folk music – a kind of music entwined with the life and culture of the Mekong Delta people.
Paddle through small canals – an exciting experience since you can look around, unwind and soak up the wonderful atmosphere of the Upper Mekong Delta. Additionally, after arrival in Tan Phong Island, let yourself immerse in the tranquility of nature.
At the lunchtime, you not only enjoy luscious food, but also get closer to the locals as it is a chance to learn how to prepare Vietnamese specialties. The meal is cooked by your own and served in the heart of the local garden.
Take a cycling trip along the village path through orchards. Meanwhile, have some short stops to meet local people who help you understand more about the daily life in the Mekong Delta.
We return to the dock by sampan and for transfer to Can Tho to your overnight stay.