Last July, Anji – part of our Australian Sales team – sailed away on our Avalon Waterways’ Mekong river cruise. Here are some of Anji’s highlights from sailing through time on the Mekong River.
There are some trips that change you – not because of the places you see, but because of the people you meet, the experiences you share, and the history you discover along the way. My recent journey with Avalon Waterways down the Mekong River was exactly that. It wasn’t just about ticking off iconic sights; it was about feeling the pulse of the river and the stories that come with it.
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City to Vinh Long – The Adventure Begins
After months of anticipation, I finally boarded the Avalon Saigon – my floating home for the next week. I could feel the energy of the Mekong River calling to me the moment I set foot on deck. Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling streets faded away as we began cruising on the peaceful waters of the Saigon River, heading for Vinh Long.
We kicked off the adventure with a welcome reception, getting acquainted with the ship and its impeccable service. Dinner? A feast. It was as if the ship’s kitchen knew exactly how to capture the flavour of Vietnam in every bite. I couldn’t wait to see what tomorrow had in store.
Day 2: Vinh Long to Cu Lao Gieng – Sampans, Rice Paper, and Non La Hats
The next morning, we boarded sampans (small wooden boats), ready for a full-on Vietnamese immersion. First stop? A local workshop where we watched the fascinating process of making rice paper, rice wine, and even the iconic candies that I’ll be dreaming about for months. Spoiler alert: I may or may not have sampled a little too much rice wine.
Then, we glided through the lush waters to Cu Lao Gieng Island where we visited a family who handcrafts Vietnamese conical hats or Non La. These hats, made from palm leaves and bamboo, are not just sun shields – they’re a symbol of Vietnam. And trust me, you’ll be tempted to bring one home. The island’s charm and the ever-present smile of the locals were enough to make me never want to leave. We finished the day by visiting one of Vietnam’s oldest Catholic churches, an unexpected and beautifully serene moment.
Day 3: Chau Doc to Phnom Penh – Floating Homes and a Border Crossing
As we sailed into Chau Doc, I was greeted by the vibrant colours of the local market where locals haggle for fish, produce, and just about everything in between. The market was alive with energy, and it was hard to resist taking a hundred photos (who knew fish could be so photogenic?).
Next, it was time for a river excursion through the backwaters of the Mekong – a place where traditional floating homes seem to float as effortlessly as the boat we were in. After a taste of Chau Doc’s best, we headed to Long Khanh A, a small village where cotton-weaving remains a treasured tradition. I couldn’t resist picking up a handwoven scarf as a souvenir – and a story to tell.
By late afternoon, we had crossed the border into Cambodia, and I couldn’t help but feel a little giddy about the cultural shift that lay ahead. Cambodia, here we come!
Day 4: Phnom Penh – A Royal Experience and Local Show
Phnom Penh was everything I imagined and more: rich in history, with a touch of regal flair. We took a private cyclo ride to the stunning Royal Palace, which was surrounded by lush gardens and gleaming pagodas. The Silver Pagoda inside was a sight to behold, but what really got me was the grandeur of it all…this is a city that knows how to do royal luxury right.
One of my favourite moments was a heartwarming performance by local children from an orphanage. It was a beautiful glimpse into Cambodia’s soul, and made the Royal Palace feel even more alive.
Day 5: Phnom Penh – Dark History or Market Dynamism
Not every moment of the journey was lighthearted, but it was all deeply meaningful. We had the choice of visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum or the Killing Fields, and I chose the museum to learn about the tragic period of the Khmer Rouge regime. It was heavy, emotional, and sobering, but absolutely essential to understanding Cambodia’s history.
For those wanting a lighter side of Phnom Penh, the Central Market was the perfect antidote. Riding a tuk-tuk through the colourful streets was pure joy as we zipped past the Art Deco market. The market’s energy was infectious – now, this is what vibrant life looks like.
Day 6: Wat Hanchey and Angkor Ban – Water Blessings and Local School Visits
The day began with a climb to Wat Hanchey, an ancient temple dating back to the 8th century. Perched on a hilltop, it offered sweeping views of the Mekong. For a touch of serenity, the local monks performed a traditional water blessing; a peaceful, almost meditative moment. If you ever find yourself on this trip, make sure you take a moment to reflect here as the energy of the place is palpable.
Afterwards, we stopped by Angkor Ban. Angkor Ban is a rural village where we visited a traditional Khmer house and interacted with school children who were eager to practice their English. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and it was touching to see the education system at work in such a rural part of Cambodia.
Day 7: Konpong Louang to Kampong Tralach – Talented Silversmiths
In Konpong Louang, we watched as talented craftsmen used ancient techniques to turn pure silver into intricate works of art. The silver here is legendary, and I’m not ashamed to admit that I bought a few pieces to remind me of the skilled artisans we met.
Day 8: Farewell to the Mekong
All good things must come to an end, and after a delicious breakfast on board, I reluctantly disembarked. The Mekong River, with its timeless flow and vibrant cultures, had left an indelible mark on my soul. Avalon Waterways had made every moment unforgettable, blending history, culture, and comfort in a way only they can.
If you’re looking for an immersive, life-enriching adventure where every day brings new discoveries, a Mekong river cruise with Avalon Waterways should be at the top of your list. Whether it’s exploring vibrant local markets, cruising past floating villages, or reflecting on Cambodia’s tumultuous past, this journey offers a bit of everything and will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
