Mekong Unplugged: Crafts, Food, and Markets

Touch down in Ho Chi Minh City and be greeted in style by our friendly guide at the arrival gate. Keep an eye out for your name on our sign for a warm and hassle-free welcome.
From there, we’ll transfer to your accommodation right in the lively heart of this bustling heart of this dynamic city.

Leave behind the noise of Ho Chi Minh City as we set off on the journey deep into the heart of the Mekong. Our first stop? The charming town of Cai Be.

Glide through the hidden waterways of Tân Phong Island on a hand-rowed sampan, weaving between mangroves and quiet canals. Arriving at a local orchard, enjoy a spread of tropical fruits paired with warm tea, all while listening to the soulful melodies of traditional Vietnamese folk music.

Hop on a bicycle and explore the countryside at a relaxed pace. Ride past orchards, schools, pagodas, and traditional houses. Along the way, take a break to meet skilled artisans who transform water hyacinths into beautifully handcrafted baskets, bags, and hats.

Cross the mighty Mekong River, one of the longest in the world, to reach An Bình Island. Here, a delicious home-cooked meal awaits, either served onboard or at a welcoming local homestay (your choice).
After lunch, settle into local homestay, where the pace slows down even more. Take another bike ride or a gentle walk through the village, stopping at small family-run workshops to see how rice paper, coconut candy, and pop-rice are made (Yes, there will be samples!)

As the sun begins to set, refresh yourself with a shower before stepping into the kitchen. Join a hands-on cooking session with your host family, where you’ll learn the secrets behind authentic Mekong dishes. The evening ends with a warm, home-cooked dinner shared around the table, followed by a peaceful night in your cozy homestay.

Wake up to the peaceful rhythm of village life and take a refreshing morning walk through the quiet paths, breathing in the crisp Mekong air. After a heartfelt farewell to the Út Trinh family, step aboard for the next leg of the journey.

Drifting along the river, visit local brick kilns, where skilled artisans transform raw clay into stunning pottery. This region has been known for its traditional brick and tile production for over a century, with each kiln using age-old methods to fire clay into durable materials. Cruising past a floating village, get a close-up look at how families farm catfish directly on the water, Vietnam is one of the world’s largest exporters of basa fish, much of which comes from these very farms.

A stop at Vinh Long Market offers a burst of color and energy. It’s a feast for the senses, filled with baskets of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, crisp vegetables, and even more unusual finds like rice-field rats and snakes, a local delicacy that surprises many visitors. This market is one of the oldest trading hubs in the Mekong Delta, where sellers have gathered for generations to supply nearby provinces with fresh produce. Whether you’re capturing photos of the vibrant stalls or sampling exotic flavors, this is a perfect glimpse into the local way of life.

The boat ride ends in Vinh Long City, where a quick transfer leads straight to Can Tho, the beating heart of the Mekong Delta.
After checking in at the hotel, the rest of the evening is yours—wander the lively streets, explore the bustling night market, or simply unwind at your own pace. A city full of flavors, lights, and energy awaits!

Rise and shine at 5:30 AM, trust us, it’s worth it! We’re heading straight to the iconic Cai Rang Floating Market. Hop on a boat and let’s weave through the lively chaos of floating vendors selling everything from fresh produce to breakfast noodles, all while soaking in the Mekong’s authentic morning buzz.

But we’re not stopping there. We’re skipping the usual touristy vibes and make it further to a less-touristy noodle factory, where you’ll see the magic of turning simple rice into delicious, chewy noodles. Watch, learn, and maybe even roll up your sleeves for some hands-on fun.

Next, the boat will drop us off at a local wet market, where the colors, smells, and energy will wake you up better than coffee.
Next, introducing Mrs. Thuy’s family-run workshop, a hidden gem where Southern Vietnamese traditional cakes like Bánh Tét and Bánh Ít come to life. Watch as Mrs. Thuy and her family skillfully wrap these iconic treats, transforming simple ingredients into edible art.

Back at the hotel, it’s time to pack up and say goodbye to the prosperous interesting Mekong Delta. We then make our way back to Ho Chi Minh City. End of the trip.