Mekong Delta Ctuise (May 15)

After two nights in Ho Chi Minh City, we headed out for an overnight side trip to the Mekong Delta, which is south of the city and the main source of rice for what used to be known as South Vietnam.

At 7.00 am a mini bus picked us up at the hotel for the four hour drive to Can Tho where we would board the Mekong Eyes (see below) for a two day, one night  cruise on the Mekong River. 


The Mekong Eyes: The 15 cabin boat is a replica of a traditional rice barge.



Basic but comfortable cabin with a surprisingly nice bathroom



The main dining room
Paul and I shared a table for four with a very nice Australian couple.
 The guests were a friendly crowd, all English speakers from Australia, New Zealand and the United States.


Brunch on the top deck


Ferry crossing the Mekong


Sampan stores ply the river


Floating market selling Jack fruit, Durian, Dragon fruit and other exotic fruits most of which taste really awful




A Buddhist Temple


Home Sweet Home (for someone) on the Mekong


What a great way to stay in shape! These lovely ladies took us on a sampan ride through narrow canals. 

Our cruise ended at midday in Cai Be and after lunch we headed back to Ho Chi Minh City and the Signature Hotel.