It’s been delightfully cool each morning as we wake up and stretch out on deck of the Jahan. Several guests attend the early morning Tai Chi class on the terrace deck while others relax on the sofas and enjoy the sunrise. It’s another beautiful day on the Mekong. This morning we visit the remote Vietnamese town of Chau Doc, one of the last big cities before crossing the Cambodian border. Chau Doc is very much a fishing hotspot in the Mekong Delta, and while we cruise along the waterway on our local sampans we see a variety of fishing activity occurring all around us. A few minutes later we arrive at a floating fish farm, where we are able to see first-hand how fish are raised here in the Delta. It’s a great introduction to this amazing profession that is so commonly practiced here on the river, and a very informative lesson as our Vietnamese guides help translate our questions to the fish farmers.
Our next stop after the fish farm is the village and marketplace in Chau Doc. We start with an exhilarating ride on the back of a local cyclo (think bicycle with a back seat) where we cruise around the town and enjoy the sights and smells along the way. Next we explore the local market, a definite highlight of the morning. We watch as local venders sell anything and everything from bizarre species of seafood to raw meats to clothing to electronics. It’s the perfect opportunity for photography, and whether you’re a beginner or an advanced photographer, there’s something to shoot no matter where you look.
Once we arrive back on board the Jahan, we sail up river and cross over to Cambodia, a process that takes several hours. In lieu of an afternoon excursion to shore, we have several engaging programs on the boat including a lecture on the geography and hydrology of the Mekong by specialist Stephane De Greef, followed by an afternoon cooking class in the dining room. During the cooking demonstration, guests learn how to prepare both Vietnamese and Cambodian delicacies.
Our day on the Mekong comes to an end with yet another stunning sunset, and a lovely evening of cruising as we make our way towards Phnom Penh.