Mekong Delta, VIETNAM
Airing Date: Aug 15th, 2005
The Cai Rang floating markets are the hub of the Mekong Delta's farming and fishing trade.
The markets are at their busiest before 9am when it isn't too hot and it's well worth the early rise.
Give yourself a couple of hours, jump in a sampan boat and see a day on the Mekong spring to life.
It may appear frantic and crazy but buying is easy. Whether it's bananas, fish or jack fruit - everything on sale is hanging off the front of each boat, just remember to bargain.
To bargain start at 50 per cent and work your way up, you might end up with 25 per cent off the original price. But remember everything is pretty cheap anyway so don't argue too much - with a whole pineapple for $1 it's hard to complain.
The Mekong Delta is about half the size of Tasmania but with a population of 20 million people.
The river bank is dotted with stilted wooden houses built on the water's edge, and is home to many fishermen, like Mr Moi.
He's happy to show visitors around and to introduce unsuspecting victims to the local tradition of snake wine
Can Tho is the biggest city in the Mekong Delta. Rice is its biggest industry.
The city is connected to most other centres of the Mekong Delta by a system of rivers and canals which provide easy, economical transport. .
With all the fruit growing, fish farming and vegie buying going on, expect the food here to be interesting and abundant.
A Mekong feast full of strange and delicious delicacies costs around $30 for three people.
Have the need to explore and experience the tastes, the culture and the landscapes of Vietnam? Don't forget your hat and your willingness to try new things.
Further information:
Travel Indochina
12 day Mekong & Temples tour starts from $2099 a person, based on twin share.
Including transport, accommodation, guides & excursions.
Upgrade to 5 star from $3188 a person
Travel Indochina Ph) 1300 367 666 www.travelindochina.com.au .
Flights
Thai Airways International flights to Ho Chi Minh City start from $1333 ex Sydney & $1345 ex Perth.
Includes taxes. Conditions apply
Thai Airways International phone: 1300 651 960 www.thaiairways.com.au.
Prices correct at 15/08/05
