It’s seven years since the Joker and I first ventured to Vietnam on a flying visit. That trip took us up the Mekong River on a three day cruise that ended in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Who knew that rushed journey, which opened our eyes to another world would eventually have such an impact on our lives? That trip, which made such an impression is largely why we are living in Cambodia.
Last week I revisited the trip with a friend.
I had forgotten how vibrant Vietnam is and it was so good to watch life on this mighty river taking place. But there were a few changes since the Joker and I were last there.
Vietnam seems generally much cleaner. The tour guides were more professional, their English excellent. And this trip had a few differences to the last one. But I’ll tell you all about that in another post.
Thought I would just tease you with this snapshot.
Have you been to Vietnam? Done a Mekong Delta cruise? Or have you had a travel experience that has changed your life? Tell us your story.
Ruthie @ All Things Meraki says
Fantastic shot! I would love to visit one day. I chose to travel around Australia first before heading overseas.Looking forward to reading more details about your Mekong River adventure. #snapshotstory
Sam Walker says
Hi Ruthie. Thanks so much for stopping by. Australia is awesome and we have seen much of it – although, there are still so many places to explore there. But this time we decided to live overseas and base ourselves in a country we love and a place where there is so much need we thought we could make a contribution. The Mekong was a little side trip and I had a ball. Hoping to explore a bit more of Asia while we are here. I hope you get to visit this part of the world one day. It really is amazing.
Holly says
Vietnam is one of my favourite places we have visited so far. I loved the cultural differences to Australia. Some of the sights were downright crazy… hello workplace health and safety… but it gave me such a high experiencing the country. We didn’t do a Mekong cruise. Just Halong Bay instead, but we did spend time in HCMC, Hoi An and Hanoi, and even between the 3 cities, such differences. i can’t wait to go back… but Cambodia is a must one day too.
Sam Walker says
Hi Holly! Yes, Vietnam can be quite a cultural shock on the first visit. And very big differences between those three cities. And I definitely hope you get to Cambodia one day. It tugs at the heartstrings.
Philippa says
Awww…. I went looking for some shots of my trip up the Mekong from Ho-Chi Minh 15 years ago and then realised I can’t upload them to your blog :o( But it was unforgettable. Especially the little islands in the middle of the river with the freshest fish in the world on offer when you pull over for lunch!
Sam Walker says
No, you can’t post them to the blog but I will be doing a more in depth story in the next few weeks and you would be able to post to the Facebook page Philippa. If they are digital… I’m thinking 15 years ago, maybe they aren’t? It would have been awesome doing that trip 15 years ago. Pretty busy these days but still very well organised and not over-crowded at any of the island stops.
Philippa says
Scanners bring the past into the present ….. I’ll look forward to your more detailed story then. Loving your blogs ?
Sam Walker says
Aaaw. Thanks!