|
This vast delta is known for the deposition of the multiple tentacles and tributaries that forms the many miles of waterways criss-cross the land making this area both fertile and unique.The delta shows varied landscapes: from rice fields to shaded coconut tree woods, to mangrove, to orchards, interspersed with timeless villages with their handicraft and even traditional industries of fruit drying, sugar cane processing, brick cooking...
The people in this region are made up of Vietnamese and some people of Khmer, Chinese and Cham origin. This accounts for the variety of religions that add to the cultural diversity of this area. Among the religions practiced here are: Buddhism, Catholicism, Cao Dai, Hoa Hao and Islam.
Life in the delta still gets its rhythm from the nature. The people living in the Mekong Delta make their living as farmers and fishermen. Often, they live right on the edge of the rivers or canals on various structures built from whatever materials found. Consequently, the architecture along the delta varies from place to place. Often, many homes have fisheries right under them. Enterprising individuals build a cage like structure of bamboo beneath their homes on these waterways to house fishes. As the fishes grew, they sell the whole batch to processors from the city and start with new ones.
Floating markets are held every morning from 5: 00 to about 11: 00. Phung Hiep market is the biggest since it is located at the intersection of 7 major canals. It is also a photographer's delight because it can be seen above from a bridge. Cai Rang and Phong Dien are two other notable floating markets in the delta. Early by dawn, hundreds of boats and sampans loaded with produce from nearby orchards of the Mekong Delta converge to the floating market. They carry mostly fruits but also coconuts, vegetables and fishes.
“The Mekong region remains one of the most culturally rich and naturally beautiful travel experiences in the world” as marveled by Stephen Yong, Executive Director, Mekong Tourism Office.
Cruising up rivers sitting on the roof of a boat laden with all manner of fish produce while gazing at a beautiful sunset over the distant palm tress, is a truly unforgettable experience. For more comprehensive information on the Mekong Delta, you can log on to http://www.mekonglife.vn/launched on the occasion of the National Tourism Year named “Mekong – Can Tho 2008”. Local herbal garden Besides latest news about national tourism 2008, MekongLife.vn is a site where readers can seek information about restaurants, hotels, shopping, landscapes, customs and habits, culture, festivals and culinary arts of ethnic groups in the Mekong Delta.
|
