Mekong River Cruise

We were on holiday in Ho Chi Minh City and decided to take a cruise on the Mekong River. The weather was fine and the waterway was not crowded as I thought it would be. Perhaps it's because morning is almost over and whatever trade conducted on the River is almost done.

Contrary to what was often described in visitors' comments, the River although muddy looking was not littered with rubbish. The River water was not slow moving; the motion made by big boats and motors could have washed the plastics and discards elsewhere.

The boat was almost filled with tourists from all over and we got to get to know some of them. The cruise was smooth and relaxed.

Homes and shops are built on stilts along both sides of the river bank.

Our guide was friendly and speaks good English. Our boat brought us ashore to some touristy spot where we were shown the various cottage industries like handcrafting souvenirs, making rice paper, candy and rice crisps.

We were then brought to a restaurant for a fairly good lunch that was included in the cruise. We added extra food like deep fried fish served upright. Vietnamese food is really yummy and Vietnamese coffee is a must-try and totally addictive.

We all agreed that the short cruise was worthwhile doing. During our boat cruise, we saw the Notre Dame Cathedral that would be our next destination when we get off the boat.