| The Mekong river has its source in the high
plateaus of Tibet. Stretching out over 2600 miles, this river has made
southern Vietnam an immense, fertile territory: it is the country's rice
loft. It is toward the end of this long river, that it begins branch out
into smaller streams, thus spreading its precious minerals into the fertile
soil. The river penetrates into the luxurious vegetation in an environment
that is both terrestrial and aquatic. The inhabitants along the river's
edge have learned to live with its sometimes devastating effects, such
as the flooding that took place in early 2000.
It's a veritable labyrinth of waterways. The pirogue is the only way
to go on the river, whether for work, just for a stroll or even for weddings
and other ceremonies. In this part of Vietnam, everyone is either a farmer
or a fisherman. The tide makes its way up to the delta, bringing with
them large quantities of fish.
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Cân Tho is the capitol of the province of
Hâu Giang and the heart of the delta; it's a veritable network of canals.
From Cân Tho, you can hop on a boat and spend an afternoon on the
river. Go to the riverbank in town. There are a number of small boats
with a motor for rent.
When you get back, go to the always busy central market at the end of
the day. You will find all kinds of fruits and vegetables, as well as
the gorgeous fish from the delta.
WHERE TO EAT
In Can Tho there are a number of restaurants along the riverbank
where you can try some of the specialties from the delta.
Fish, soups, sea food but also frog and even snake! |
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