Mekong River Cruise!

After years of dreaming about Southeast Asia, I finally embarked on my first trip to the region: a river cruise along the Mekong River from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City. This journey offered a unique opportunity to explore the rich histories, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes of Cambodia and Vietnam—all without the stress of planning every detail myself! I was also joined by my colleague, Angie, who had been to this region before but never by ship. 

With the itinerary thoughtfully arranged, I could focus on immersing myself in the experience. The cruise promised a blend of serene riverside life, bustling local markets, ancient traditions, and deeply moving historical sites. From the moment I set foot on the AmaDara, I was transported to another era where time seemed to flow as quietly as the river itself. Fun fact about the Mekong River in Cambodia - during green season, the river level rises so much that it overwhelms its tributary, the Tonle Sap, and causes it to reverse its flow into Tonle Sap lake. Due to this change in flow, the water was a rich brown or locally deemed “coffee brown”. This typically lasts the full green season and Cambodians celebrate the reversing flow with a water festival when the water level drops and the river turns clear. Cambodians and Vietnamese rely heavily on the Mekong, both as a means of transportation and food sources. There are so many species of fish in the Mekong river and Tonle Sap lakes!

The journey began with a 5 hour transfer from Siem Reap to Kampong Cham, where I joined my fellow travelers for a welcome dinner onboard. As we set sail, I found myself captivated by the views along the riverbanks. We quickly left the more developed embarkation port and found ourselves surrounded by green banks, farms, and stilt homes. 
This was more than just a sightseeing trip; it was an immersive cultural experience. Over the next seven days, I explored many markets, visited centuries-old temples, and learned about the resilience and artistry of the villages we stopped in. 

For anyone considering this journey, I can promise that it is such a unique and wonderful adventure. The Mekong isn’t just a river; it’s a lifeline that connects people, traditions, and generations. Stay tuned as I share the highlights of this unforgettable experience.