Top Reasons to Go

Rice paddies: There's something uniquely soothing about the Mekong Delta's rice paddies. Whether they're photogenically brilliantly green or postharvest brown, there's usually a buffalo standing around, accompanied by a white water bird. Sam Mountain, just outside Chau Doc, is the perfect vantage point.

River life: Get out on the water to see Mekong Delta life in action. Everything revolves around the water, which provides the region's main form of transportation.

Floating markets: Boats chock-full of locally grown produce congregate at certain points in the river to trade, advertising their wares by hoisting them up on a flagpole-like stick.

Homestays: There are several upscale homestay options well off the tourist trail that make a great base for cycling, walking, or boating through delta communities.

Cham culture: The ancient Kingdom of Champa ruled this region from the 7th to the 18th century, and pockets of Cham descendants remain, along with a smattering of beautiful temples.