While many visitors head directly to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, we recommend a slightly different approach. Instead of joining the usual rush of tourist boats that navigate the market waters, you can watch the busy market from the viewpoint of a local coffee seller by the river. Unlike some markets, Cai Rang is open all day, so you don't have to wake up very early. Visiting a bit later will give you a calmer and just as interesting experience.

Beyond the floating market, the afternoon unveils another facet of Can Tho's charm. The rice noodle factories that you may have heard of are best explored when they are less crowded. Witness rice noodles drying in the sun on racks, a testament to the skill of the local craftsmen.

But Can Tho offer more than just noodles and markets? The chocolate industry is growing rapidly here, and Marou, a special handmade chocolate brand, is helping it grow. You can immerse yourself in the process of chocolate-making at a cacao farm, an experience still relatively undiscovered by tourists. Here, you're encouraged to taste and enjoy the delicious flavors.

A short drive away, you'll find Sa Dec, a town brought to life in Marguerite Duras' French novel, L'Amant, and the subsequent film adaptation, The Lover. Sa Dec features colonial houses at its core, just as described in Duras' work. The town has kept its old-world charm with its narrow streets, riverside walks, and bustling markets. Visiting here is like stepping into the pages of a novel, letting you experience the bygone era vividly portrayed by Duras. It's a genuine testament to the timeless appeal of this region.

When it comes to accommodations in Can Tho, there are two exceptional options that offer distinct experiences, ensuring your stay in this charming city is nothing short of memorable.

Victoria Can Tho: This elegant place welcomes you to enjoy enchanting riverside views. The courtyard, which also serves as a pool area, provides a picturesque spot overlooking the calm river. As evening descends, the passage of sampans lights up the river, creating a magical atmosphere. The Spices Restaurant at the hotel features a diverse selection of regional dishes. Don't miss trying the 'bot loc cake,' a delicious treat made from rice flour, often served with either juicy shrimp or tender pork. The Victoria Can Tho hotel guarantees a stay that truly captures the essence of the Mekong.

Azerai: For those seeking luxurious accommodations and a tranquil atmosphere, Azerai provides an ideal haven. Your journey to this island hotel commences with a warm welcome, complete with a refreshing juice and a cold towel. From here, you'll hop on a fast boat to get to the island, and you'll notice right away how much spacious the hotel is. The vast grounds, the inviting pool, and the well-appointed rooms all promise ample space for relaxation. Azerai lets you leave the busy city behind and enjoy a peaceful place where the only sound you'll hear is the river. This luxury retreat offers a unique blend of comfort and tranquillity in the heart of the Mekong Delta.

I recommend heading further south to the charming city of Soc Trang. The best way to make this journey is by embarking on a one-night sampan cruise. This not only provides you with an up-close view of river life but also offers an escape from the often congested roads of this region.

Upon stepping onto the traditional rattan-roofed sampan, you'll be greeted with a refreshing coconut juice. The spacious rooms on board allow you to relax in comfort, with an open-front living area that offers a relaxed place for viewing the river. The sampan makes a notable stop at a floating garden, where you can witness precision gardening at its finest. Delicate trees and plants flourish on artfully constructed floating platforms, destined to be purchased in bulk by larger businesses in Sa Dec.

After getting off the sampan, you can visit a local mushroom farm, which is a unique and less touristy spot. Moreover, you'll also get a chance to explore a local rice wine producer, adding an authentic touch to your journey.

One of the most memorable parts of your sampan cruise is the peaceful rowboat ride through the mangroves at sunset. As the sun goes down, the Delta turns into a beautiful golden landscape, making it an incredible experience.

As you explore the southern reaches of Soc Trang, you'll uncover a distinctive Cambodian influence in the Mekong Delta. This area was once a part of the Khmer Empire until the 17th century, and you can still find hints of Cambodian culture, architecture, and cuisine, especially in towns like Soc Trang and Tra Vinh. Unlike the more well-known spots in the delta, this region offers a unique opportunity to uncover a less-visited but incredibly captivating facet of the area.

What is obvious here, is the abundance of family-run businesses that line the riverbanks, processing dried fish and seafood. These small-scale enterprises are deeply rooted in the daily life of the locals and contribute to the authentic charm of the region.

Soc Trang, although not known for its intrinsic tourist attractions, possesses its own distinctive character. Once you step off the sampan, I suggest leaving the town and taking a drive into the peaceful countryside. Here, you'll be welcomed by expansive views of rice fields, creating a tranquil contrast to the busy streets and towns you'll encounter around Can Tho.

One of the best ways to explore the Khmer provinces is on a two-wheeler, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. As you cycle along forest trails, past tranquil Buddhist pagodas, through verdant paddy fields, and past cottage industries, you'll gain insight into the peaceful rhythm of life in this part of the Mekong Delta.