"Chage of pace in the Mekong Delta" Vinh Long by WOOFWOOF

We journeyed south from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta where we travelled on various boats through the river and canal system. A welcome change of pace from Ho Chi Minh, slowly making our way through this fertile area was a real experience......pausing to see local industries and then for the obligatory lunchstop along the way.

We then embarked on a bike ride around one of the islands via a maze of pathways past beautifully kept homes and over quaint bridges, the mood interrupted with Hana and Larry, then Joy all crashing at various stages. Larry particularly impressive as he selected a substantial cactus plant to fall into.

At the end of the bike ride we stopped for some local fruit and refreshments and Megan decided it was the right time to wrestle the local python.

A homestay feast

We spent the night at a local homestay. A double story home, modest in appearance by western standards but clearly owned by a family who would be considered wealthy by Vietnam standards, with an orchard at the rear.

The dormitary style bedroom accommodated all of us comfortably. The dinner prepared by the family was exquisite. Elephant fish, giant prawns and the obligatory spring rolls was one of many wonderful meals we enjoyed throughout Vietnam.

Good reception but the TV shows aren't any better

A morning boat trip to the floating markets revealed a hundred or so boats in the middle of the river entrance to this trading township, each full laden with fruit and vegetables for sale. Such a pretty village, the river edge lined with ramshackle buildings and homes, notable for the fact that for every abode there appeared to be several television antennas. Television is a relatively recent introduction to Vietnam and despite the apparent poverty through much of Vietnam, there is no shortage of televisions...as basic a model as most are.

• Pros:Scenic and relaxing, up close and personal
• Cons:Beware those narrow bridges if you're riding a bike
• In a nutshell:Easy on the eye and healthy food for the tummy