New way to enjoy Mekong Delta Vietnam and Homestay

The "rice bowl" of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is a landscape carpeted in a dizzying variety of greens and slashed with mighty waterways. It's a water world where boats, houses, restaurants and even markets float upon the innumerable rivers, canals and streams that flow through the region like arteries. At times you can quite simply lose sight of land.



The area is both riparian and deeply rural, but it's also one of Vietnam's most densely populated regions, with nearly every hectare intensively farmed. Visitors can dwell on southern charm in little-visited riverside cities, sample fruits traded in the colourful floating markets, or feast on home-cooked delicacies before overnighting as a homestay guest. Mangrove forests, sacred Khmer pagodas and off-the-beaten-track attractions round out the picture. (Quoted from Lonely Planet).



Travel to Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City, recently it is popular for tourists to enjoy homestay tour instead of choosing group tour. Mekong Delta homestay tour will start in Ho Chi Minh City by bus. Stop at My Tho on the way to Can Tho Province, you will get on a boat trip up Mekong River with islet stop at Thoi Son to taste seasonal fruits and enjoy traditional folk songs.



Arrival at Can Tho, you will have an opportunity to visit and stay with local farmer and joining their daily life. You can learn to cook simple local dishes with fresh ingredients collected in the garden or a small market nearby for their own dinner under the landlord’s instructions. After dinner, the landlord may need your help to make sticky rice cakes for breakfast and enjoy the traditional folk songs while enjoy some cups of rice wine.





After a night in a local house, you will visit Can Tho floating market - the biggest and busiest wholesale floating market of Vietnam where not only local people but people from all over Mekong delta come to exchange their farming products. Finishing the market, you can visit handmade noodle workshop or shipyard to deeply understand the Mekong delta life.

List of tours include Mekong Delta Vietnam

• Highlights of Mekong Delta - 2 days/ 1 night
• In Mekong Delta To Be A Real Vietnamese Farmer - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• The cuisine and culture at the South - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Exciting of South Vietnam - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Relaxing Tour - 4 Days/ 3 Nights

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Top 5 Vietnam Experiences Not to be Missed!

There are plenty of guide books which outline the best tourist sites to visit on your Vietnam holiday, but we personally love hearing about real travel experiences and tips from other travellers who have explored all the best places first hand.

Emma visited Vietnam in early 2012 and shares her top 5 experiences not to be missed, alongside a couple of her Vietnam travel snaps...

1. Staying in the old town in Hanoi

Dong Xuan Hanoi Night Market

This quirky area is home to hundreds of small shops and food stalls scattered all over the pavements, spilling out into the bustling streets. Steam billows from the pots and pans creating an atmospheric mist, especially at night when the many colourful lanterns are lit. Tip: If you wish to eat on the street, make sure to choose a stall that looks busy and popular with the locals. If you are flying in to Hanoi check out our Hanoi trip, which is perfect for spending a couple of days exploring and getting over your jet lag.

2. Visiting Halong Bay (overnight)

Visiting Halong Bay

This probably won’t come as a great surprise but you simply cannot miss out on the beauty of Halong Bay on your Vietnam trip. Skip the ugly Halong City and hop on a traditional junk boat for an overnight experience. You’ll float amongst the towering limestone rocks whilst dining on delicious Vietnamese cuisine, including fresh seafood. Your captain will stop off at points of interest where you will be able to capture some great shots of your surroundings. The rooms on the boats are small but cosy, and make sure you get up for sunrise over the bay- it’s a sight not to be missed!

3. Eating dinner by the river in Hoi An

Hoi An Ancient Town At Night

This was one of the best experiences of my Vietnam holiday. Hoi An is an enchanting town with a relaxed vibe, perfect for shopping, cycling and of course...eating. At night the waterfront comes alive with music and noise coming from the many bars and restaurants, and it’s a great place to stroll along and choose your spot for the evening. If you eat the local foods you’ll find it’s a much cheaper option, and you’ll get to sample the fresh produce of the area. I recommend Cafe 96 for delicious fish and noodle dishes- look out for the quirky artwork and the friendly owners.

4. Drink cocktails at the beach club in Nha Trang

The beach club in Nha Trang

Nha Trang has a bit of a reputation for being a party town but it you stay close to the beach front you’ll find a much more laid back evening vibe especially at the Beach club where you can watch the sun set over the ocean whilst enjoying great food and even better cocktails. Around 11pm they turn the bar area into a small dance floor so if you fancy dancing the night away you can!

5. Castaway on tropical island

Palm-Island

Vietnam isn’t as famous for its beaches as Thailand but that doesn’t mean you can’t find your own bit of tropical paradise if you know where to go. I stayed on Palm Island which is a short journey from Nha Trang on the south Coast, and it was the highlight of my Vietnam holiday. After a half hour boat ride you jump onto the jetty of a tiny island with a dozen or so beach front bungalows, a restaurant and a small dive school. This resort tries to run as eco-friendly as possible so don’t expect luxury- just enjoy waking up each morning to the azure waves that almost reach your front door.

Source: Emma on 18 MAR 2015

Tours in Vietnam

• Vietnam in style - 11 days/ 10 nights
• Vietnam relaxing - 10 days/ 9 nights
• Discovery Vietnam in style - 9 Days/ 8 Nights
• North Vietnam Highlights - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Vietnam Beach Tour - 14 Days/ 13 Nights
• Northern Vietnam in Depth - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Stunning twin cities Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh - 7 Days/ 6 Nights
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Highlights of Mekong Delta - 2 days/ 1 night

Things to try in Laos

Laos specialty

Lao cuisine is very similar to its Thai and Vietnamese neighbour's culinary offerings. Spicy soup, Khao Poon, Turkey Larb, Beerlao… is a must-try Lao specialty

1. Larb

Spicy Laotian Beef Salad

This spicy meat salad is considered the national dish of Lao. The delicious combination of minced beef, chicken or pork seasoned with chilli, lime and mint, served with vegetables and sticky rice is a firm favourite with locals and travellers.

2. Khao Poon

Khao Poon - Specialty Sup of meat

This popular soup of meat, rice noodles, lime leaves, chilli, garlic and fish sauce has a few variations. The version made with coconut milk makes the dish similar to a laksa, while the version without coconut milk is a lighter option.

3. Fresh Fruit

Fresh Fruit

The markets of Laos have a cornucopia of delicious fruits on offer, either fresh or whipped up in a juice. Pineapple, orange, watermelon, guava and banana are plentiful but why not try more exotic fruits like lychee, longan, rambutan or jackfruit?

4. Beerlao

Beerlao (Beer Laos)

The answer to Laos’ heat and humidity is a bottle of locally brewed Beerlao, best served cold at the end of a long day of exploring.

Tours in Laos recommended

• Vientiane - Luang Prabang - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Luang Prabang - Vientiane - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Hidden Delights of Laos - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Laos Sightseeing - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Laos Intangible Charms - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Luang Prabang - 3 Days/ 2 Nights

Top 10 Outdoors Experiences in Laos

1. Waterfall Wander

Kuang Si Falls in Laos

Walking around peaceful Kuang Si Falls is a must-do for anyone travelling through the Luang Prabang area. Gentle cascades of water flow into turquoise pools creating a heavenly atmosphere that draws in both tourists and locals keen on some respite from the heat.

2. Play Petanque

Play Petanque

The French game of petanque is a lot like bowls and quite popular with the people of Laos. If you’re lucky enough to come across a group of kids playing this game in the streets, try to join in – it’s fun and simple to play, and free.

3. Beautiful Biking

Laos cycling tour

Hiring a bike and cycling past quiet villages, small farms and rice paddies is a great way to spend an afternoon in Laos, as you can take in stunning scenery, meet locals and get fit all at once.

4. Have a Kick

Have a Kick

Get amongst the action by watching and playing a bit of Sepak Takwar with locals in the parking lots, streets and parks of Laos. This game (which could be described as a hybrid between football and volleyball) is commonly played throughout South-East Asia, and the locals of Laos are no exception.

5. Power To the Paddle

Paddling on the Nam Song River

Paddling a kayak down the Nam Song River is an interesting and energetic way to get active and see the sights of Vang Vieng.

6. Get Back To Nature in Nam Ha

Crossing a river in the Nam Ha

Home to a wide range of rare plant and animal species, this protected area is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers and animal lovers. The challenging hike through forested terrain provides many rewards in the form of animal spotting and breathtaking scenic vistas.

7. Refreshing River Swim

Refreshing River Swim

Taking a dip in one of Laos’ many rivers is the perfect way to escape the heat on a hot summer’s day.

8. Spiritual Stroll

Vientiane

Taking a leisurely walk around Vientiane’s quirky Buddha Park (also known as Xieng Khuan) is akin to taking an active history, religion and art lesson. Full of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures that depict myths, legends and stories – the giant reclining Buddha is a highlight for most. Surrounding trees, gardens and flowers add to the serenity.

9. Cruise Along an Icon

Cruise Along down the Mekong

Taking a riverboat journey down the Mekong is an iconic journey to savour. Sit on deck, catch the breeze and take photos of the surrounding landscapes as villages, people and mountains glide by.

10. Tough Trek

Tough Trek

Test your fitness against some of Laos’ mountains on a challenging trek. With so much mountainous terrain, there are many different options and places to hike all around Laos – bring your best hiking boots and a sense of adventure.

Tours in Laos recommended

• Vientiane - Luang Prabang - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Luang Prabang - Vientiane - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Hidden Delights of Laos - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Laos Sightseeing - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Laos Intangible Charms - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Luang Prabang - 3 Days/ 2 Nights

Top responsible travel tips for Burma (Myanmar)

Burma (Myanmar) Travel Tips

Buddhists nuns walk through Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar

1. Be considerate of Burma’s customs, traditions, religion and culture.

2. Dress modestly and respectfully. Shoulders to knees should be covered, especially when entering places of worship.

3. Burma's political situation is sensitive. Respect the wishes of locals at all times and avoid starting conversations involving politics or the government. Seemingly innocuous questions or comments could cause offence.

4. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water.

5. Always dispose of litter thoughtfully, including cigarette butts.

6. When bargaining at markets, stay calm, be reasonable and keep a smile on your face. It's meant to be fun!

7. Learn some local language and don't be afraid to use it - simple greetings will help break the ice.

8. Shop for locally made products. Supporting local artisans helps keep traditional crafts alive.

9. Refrain from supporting businesses that exploit or abuse endangered animals.

10. Please ask and receive permission before taking photos of people, including children.

11. When on community visits or homestays, refrain from giving gifts or money to locals.

Tours in Myanmar recommended

• Essential Myanmar - 16 Days/ 15 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 15 Days/ 14 Nights
• Essential Myanmar - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Colorful Myanmar - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Essential Myanmar With Boat - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Classic & Beautiful Beach - 12 Days/ 11 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 10 Days/ 9 Nights
• Wonderful Myanmar - 10 Days/ 9 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 9 Days/ 8 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 8 Days/ 7 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 8 Days/ 7 Nights
• Discover Myanmar - 6 Days/ 5 Nights
• Amazing Myanmar - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Amazing Myanmar - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Taste Of Myanmar - 4 Days/ 3 Nights

Top 5 Temples of Myanmar (Burma)

1. Shwedagon Paya

Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar

As one of the most sacred sites in Burma, this glittering pagoda located in Yangon is a must-see for travellers wishing to learn about the Buddhist faith and culture in Burma. The bell-shaped golden stupa is stunning, while the surrounding statues and satellite shrines provide insight into Burmese culture and mysticism.

2. Dhammayangyi

Dhammayangyi Temple Myanmar

The largest temple in the impressive Bagan complex, centuries-old Dhammayangyi, features elaborate brickwork, dark passages filled with shrines and serene figures of Buddha. With its construction shrouded in historical mystery, the identity of the architect/builder of this unfinished temple is still unknown.

3. Shwezigon

Shwezigon Pagoda, Myanmar

One of Bagan's most popular pilgrimage spots, Shwezigon is a significant place of worship for many Burmese people. With elaborate, gilded stupas, decorated staircases and golden, ornamental trees, this is one of Burma's most beautiful temples.

4. Mahamuni

Mahamuni Buddha Temple, Myanmar

Grand columns, bright frescoes, peaceful pavilions, reflective pools and a massive golden Buddha statue combine to make this one of Burma's most visually appealing and interesting spiritual sites. As an active monastery, school for monks and place of worship, expect Bagan's Mahamuni to be busy with daily rituals and yearly religious festivals.

5. Ananda

Ananda Temple in Bagan, Myanmar

While not the largest or most elaborate temple, Bagan's symmetrical Ananda rises majestically into the sky with a certain sense of grace. Damaged by an earthquake in the 1970s, Ananda has been lovingly restored to former glory and continues to elicit admiration and wonder from both locals and visitors.

Tours in Myanmar recommended

• Essential Myanmar - 16 Days/ 15 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 15 Days/ 14 Nights
• Essential Myanmar - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Colorful Myanmar - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Essential Myanmar With Boat - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Classic & Beautiful Beach - 12 Days/ 11 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 10 Days/ 9 Nights
• Wonderful Myanmar - 10 Days/ 9 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 9 Days/ 8 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 8 Days/ 7 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 8 Days/ 7 Nights
• Discover Myanmar - 6 Days/ 5 Nights
• Amazing Myanmar - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Amazing Myanmar - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Taste Of Myanmar - 4 Days/ 3 Nights

Top 10 Iconic Landscapes of Vietnam

1. Mai Chau

Mai Chau - Moc Chau, Vietnam

Mai Chau feels a million miles away from the bustle of Hanoi. Misty mountains and emerald rice paddies contribute to the air of peacefulness. Be sure to look out for the traditional fabrics woven by the White Thais that call this area home.

2. Dalat - The City of Flowers

Dalat - The City of Flowers

It's spring all year round in Vietnam's 'honeymoon capital'. Soak up the French-inspired atmosphere, spot the quirky local artists and explore the surrounding lakes, waterfalls and forests. C'est fantastique!

3. Halong Bay

Thien Cung, Halong Bay

There's nothing quite like Halong Bay first thing in the morning. As the mists clear, hundreds of huge karst towers appear, looming high above the boat. In the soft morning light it's like waking up in a watercolour painting of a mythical land.

4. Hanoi

Street food in Ha Noi Ancient Town

Motorbikes piled high with people, produce and even animals zip through the streets. It's crazy, haphazard and somehow it works. The best way to take it all in is from a rooftop cafe. Order an extra strong coffee and watch the chaos unfold below.

5. Mekong Delta

"Mekong Delta Floating Market

This massive area of floating markets, emerald rice paddies and lush islands is home to some of the friendliest people on earth. Take a boat trip to one of the sleepy islands to get a front row view of life on the Delta, and meet the people who call it home.

6. Sapa

Muong Hoa valley - Sapa

Head to the hills and see the colourful villages of Vietnam's minority groups - the Zay, and the Blue and Black H'mong. The area is remote so the best way to experience it is on an overnight trek, spending the night as a guest of a local family.

7. Qui Nhon

Qui Nhon Beach

Quaint Qui Nhon is a sleepy beach town off the main tourist trail. It's worth coming here just for the drive. The road hugs granite cliffs that plunge into the South China Sea, and islands, lagoons and sand dunes slowly give way to sugar plantations and rice fields.

8. Hue - Imperial Citadel Vietnam

Hue Citadel, Vietnam

Jam-packed with imperial sites, Hue is one for the history buffs. Explore the Citadel with its ruined Forbidden Purple City before embracing your inner emperor and taking a dragonboat cruise down the Perfume River.

9. Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town, Vietnam

This shoppers' paradise is home to more boot makers, tailors and handicraft than you could visit in a lifetime. While you wait for your suit to be made, hire a bicycle and explore the Old Town - the streets are blissfully car free.

10. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Still known as Saigon to most, HCMC is a city on the go. It's fast-paced, exciting and full of amazing sites. Temples and markets collide with churches and skyscrapers for a heady mix of traditional, colonial and modern.

Top 10 Tours in Vietnam recommended

• Halong Bay - The Heaven On The Sea (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• Explore Hanoi City One-day
• Highlights of Mekong Delta & Homestay - 2 days/ 1 night
• Explore the Wonders of Sapa - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Relaxing in central of Vietnam - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Central Vietnam Explorer - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Southern Escape - 9 Days/ 8 Nights
• Vietnam Beach Tour - 14 Days/ 13 Nights
• Discovery Vietnam in style - 9 Days/ 8 Nights