When one is in Vietnam, a visit to Mekong Delta is almost always, if not indeed, a part of the itinerary. Mekong Delta represents a significant part of South Vietnamese tradition and being able to witness and experience its beauty is an opportunity one will hold sacred for a lifetime.

Mekong Delta was established by the tributaries of Mekong River, one of the most principal waterways in Asia. It existed since the 4^th century BCE and later on became known as the “rice basket” of Vietnam, producing over half of the country's supply. It also has several attractions which tourists frequent to, particularly in Can Tho and Vinh Long.

Can Tho is the biggest city of Mekong Delta with a population of over 1.1 million. It has a large amount of resources and services which people from all around the area depend on so much that migration is an increasing figure in such institutions as Can Tho University which offers top quality education and the only public medical school in the place. The floating markets are popular not just for buying goods but perhaps more importantly as a melting pot for observing the daily life of people in the Mekong Delta River area. Guests can rent a boat inclusive of a guide who will show them through the floating markets and the river tributaries. The floating markets open early but close at 11:00 a.m. so visitors are adviced to come early.

Binh Thuy in Can Tho is a 300-year old village comprised of 20 old houses built in the 1870s. Despite its proximity and advancement in the city, the place has taken extra measures to keep its traditional state and beauty intact. Thus, the village has become a tourist destination along with other charming sights such as a large orchard, fishing pond, rice field and a 10-meter high, 300-year old African cactus.

Like the floating markets, the central market is also more of a place of knowing the local culture and traditions than of purchasing things like food and fabrics. Walking along the area will give one an idea of the simple but meaningul life in Can Tho and in Mekong Delta as a whole. After that, tourists can take a restaurant cruiser ride along Hau River and enjoy the local specialties while being serenaded by a live band playing Southern Vietnamese folk music.

Vinh Long is located at the bank of Co Chien River, another tributary of Mekong River. It is smaller than Can Tho but boasts of likewise amazing sights like its numerous islands lining up the river and decorated with fruit orchards. Vinh Long's soil is fertile so that a number of fruits such as papayas, mangoes, bananas, coconuts and rose apples thrive in the area and which tourists can visit and buy either to eat or bring as souvenirs. For the history buffs, Vinh Long has pagodas tourists can visit. The streets are a good way to explore the place, and homestays are available for visitors who wish to stay the night.

Mekong Delta is rich in culture and history. For those who want to learn and discover the place themselves, the place is accessible with many travel agents available to cater to your travelling needs. December to February is the best time to visit when one can truly appreciate the simple yet deep and significant beauty of Mekong Delta.