The Mekong, one of Asian mythical rivers
The Mekong is one of the world's greatest rivers, and Asia's fourth largest. Its name, meaning the mother of all rivers, is apt, as most of Asia's rivers have their source in the Mekong. Its actual length is unknown due to its many tributaries, but scientists estimate it to be between 4,350 and 4,909 km long. The delta formed by this river covers more than 55,000 km² and overlaps several countries, from Vietnam to Cambodia and Laos. The Mekong rises in Qinghai, high in the Himalayas, then flows through China, on to Laos, bordering Burma, before entering Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, where it is known as the River of Nine Dragons. Difficult to navigate, the Mekong has long separated the peoples who live along its banks. Today, thanks to advances in navigation techniques, the Mekong has become a very popular waterway, particularly for cruise ships. Companies offer this river adventure to holidaymakers eager to discover the very essence of Southeast Asia, where Khmer temples, centuries-old monuments, floating markets and villages on stilts form an astonishing tableau.
Highlights of a Mekong cruise
A luxury cruise on the Mekong is first and foremost a voyage of discovery. You'll stop off in picturesque villages with their authentic charm, as well as in metropolises, the strongholds of modernity. A prestige cruise on the Mekong inevitably passes through Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's principal city. This fascinating city boasts a harmonious architectural heritage, with colonial-era monuments such as Notre Dame de Saigon Cathedral rubbing shoulders with ancient pagodas such as the Jade Emperor's Pagoda and the Giac Lam Pagoda. Take advantage of this stopover to discover the exotic atmosphere of Phung Hiep's floating markets.
A prestigious cruise along the Mekong also takes you to Phnom Penh, the stronghold of the Khmer Rouge. A visit to the Royal Palace, a worthy representative of Cambodian architecture, with its silver pagoda, is the highlight of this Mekong cruise stopover. You can also visit the National Museum to learn more about the country's history. After Phnom Penh, head for Koh Chen, a village of artisans who excel in engraved copper work. Take advantage of your time ashore for an ox-cart ride to the Wat Kampong Tralach Leu pagoda, lost in the middle of rice paddies. The walk itself is already magnificent, but the pagoda, though modest in size, is not lacking in charm either, with its surprisingly well-preserved murals.
The most beautiful discovery of this top-of-the-range cruise is undoubtedly Siem Reap, a peaceful town with a central architectural heritage inherited from the former Chinese colonial period. While the city and its dynamic atmosphere are perfect for a stay in the sun, history buffs or the simply curious, leave it for the royal city of Angkor Thom, which was founded in the course of the 9th century. The site is home to no fewer than a hundred temples, which appear to have been carved right into the stone. Start your visit with the Bayon temple and its 54 towers decorated with the smiling faces of Avalokiteshavara, who looks down on you with compassion. Continue on to the Terrace of the Leper King and Elephants, from where you'll have a breathtaking view of the Baphuon temple and its five monumental gates. Before leaving the site, don't miss a visit to Angkor Wat, Angkor's best-preserved temple, which appeals for its Khmer decoration, which despite its splendor remains harmonious. Every flat surface of the temple is adorned with decorations depicting gods, men and animals.
The ideal season for a Mekong cruise
For an unforgettable Mekong cruise, it's advisable to plan your trip for the best season. Generally speaking, a Mekong cruise is scheduled from December to May, but there are seasonal peculiarities to take into account depending on the region you wish to visit during your stopovers. If you opt for an itinerary in the Chau Doc region, it's best to schedule your cruise between December and April. At this time of year, the landscape is verdant, the climate is mild and the birds are still plentiful in the bird sanctuaries. Temperatures are often pleasant in the Saigon region, making cruises possible all year round. Even if a little light rain sometimes interferes with visits, this does not in any way hinder the discovery of the sites.