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- Destinations
- Asia
- Vietnam
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Mekong Delta
Mekong Delta
The delta is a vast network of waterways formed by the Mekong
River, and the surrounding fertile patchwork of endless green rice
paddies, orchards and swamplands is where most of the country's
rice is grown. Not only does the Mekong River irrigate what is
known as 'the rice bowl of Vietnam', but it also serves as a vital
form of transport. A unique way of life has evolved among the
villagers that have lived on or beside the river for centuries. The
best way to experience the delta is by boat, joining the rowing
boats and fishermen, rickety houseboats, ferries and traditional
sampans on the brown water. On the banks are small villages,
vegetable gardens, fish farms and stilted houses. Trading is
carried out between boats at floating markets, where whole sections
of the river are covered by bobbing merchants who publicize their
wares hung from the top of a long bamboo pole. There are several
towns in the region from where visitors can arrange boat trips if
not already on an organised tour. Try to avoid the rainy season as
the tides may be too high for canal travel. Local food dishes are a
speciality and besides seafood there are opportunities for the
adventurous to sample such delights as snake, eels and bats.
Information & Facts
Language
The official language in Vietnam is Vietnamese. Some
Chinese, English and French are spoken. Tour guides can also speak
Russian and Japanese. Numerous ethnic languages are also spoken in
parts.
Money
The official currency is the Dông (VND). There are no smaller
denominations. Currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de
change, hotels and on the black market. Visa, MasterCard and
American Express are becoming more widely acceptable, particularly
in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, but it is best not to rely on them
elsewhere. It is recommended that visitors bring travellers cheques
in US Dollars, which can be cashed at major banks in the main
cities and tourist areas. US currency acts as unofficial tender and
is useful as a back-up when banks won't cash travellers cheques
outside the main cities, but notes must be relatively new and
unmarked. Dông can be withdrawn from ATMs, which are becoming more
widespread.
Time
Local time in Vietnam is GMT +7.