The Mighty Mekong

Mekong River

Today, we continued our pilgrimage south, venturing into the fabled Mekong Delta – Vietnam's rice bowl. And let me tell you, when they say "rice bowl," they're not messing around. While the rice paddies up north and in central Vietnam were charmingly modest, here, the fields stretch to the horizon like a green, carb-laden ocean. With three harvests a year, this place single-handedly supplies over half of Vietnam's rice and a staggering 90% of its rice exports. It's also an important producer for fruits and seafood, and the particular corner we were exploring specialises in... wait for it... jackfruit and durian! My apologies in advance to anyone whose olfactory senses are currently on high alert.

Before diving into the local delights, it's worth noting a few facts about the mighty Mekong itself. This behemoth of a river, often called the "Mother of Waters," stretches approximately 4,900km from its origins on the Tibetan Plateau. It then embarks on an epic journey, flowing through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, and Cambodia, before finally gracing Vietnam with its presence and splitting into a rich, life-giving delta then emptying into the South China Sea. So, while we're experiencing just a small slice of the way of life on this river.

Our trusty bus ferried us to Cai Be, where we then boarded a boat destined for Mekong Lodge. Perched right on the riverbank, the lodge offered a prime viewing spot for the "Mekong Highway" – a constant parade of boats going about their business. The resort itself was basic but surprisingly comfortable. A word to the wise: whilst the room itself has air-conditioning, the bathrooms and toilets are outdoors. Spacious, yes, but definitely al fresco. 

Something different that none of the other hotels in Vietnam had for breakfast - grass jelly and coconut jelly with basil seeds!

Cai Be "Harbour" - basic!

The actual dock itself outside

The Mekong - keep going and you'll reach Cambodia

Cargo traffic. This one had rice in it

Mekong Lodge

Everything was so green!

The reception area

Welcome drink. I still haven't figured out what it was

Jackfruit EVERYWHERE

My room is on the left

Inside

Window on the side of the room

The bathroom!

Toilet

Shower

The hotel has a pool

After a yummy lunch, we embarked on yet another cycling tour. If you detect a slight hesitation in my tone, it is because, despite my adventurous spirit, I am fundamentally NOT a cyclist. And my derriere, after numerous "scenic" rides, is beginning to stage a protest.

Conveniently, the bikes were lined up outside our rooms, complete with helmet, bottle of water and poncho all at the ready. So, off we wobbled to explore Tan Phong Island. This island, now handily linked to the mainland by a bridge, wasn't always so accessible. Our guide showed us how the resourceful locals transform humble water hyacinth into hats and crafts, and how banana leaves are intricately woven into hammocks. We also got a peek at the production of rice paper in the south.

Banana flower salad

Deep fried fish

You guessed it...jackfruit for dessert!

Bicycle sigh...at least mine had a lucky number on it

All thought of

Cycling on Tan Phong Island

Smaller waterways on the island

Water hyacinth handicrafts. Yes she was using her foot

Small souvenir made for us on the spot

Another personal favourite - longans! 

They use everything. Banana leaves not just for food but also for hammocks

Rice paper in the south

Had a go at making one

The evening activity came in the form of a cooking demonstration. We learned the secrets behind spring rolls, wontons, and sweet and sour pork. And while I appreciate the effort, just quietly... I still think the Chinese version of sweet and sour pork has the edge. Don't tell anyone I said that!

Cooking demonstration

We had a go at making wontons and spring rolls

Yeah pretty ugly

But once deep fried, they're yummy in the tummy!

Spring roll

We were instructed to make them finger sized

The end product