The Mekong Delta is the area in South Vietnam where the Mekong River forms a multitude of islands before finally flowing into the South China Sea.
The Mekong Delta is a magnificent area with lush vegetation consisting of palm trees, coconut palms and many other kinds of fruit tree, including banana trees and mango trees, as well as ones bearing exotically named fruits, such as dragon fruit, or foul smelling ones, such as durian. Veritable gardens in themselves, the islands of the Mekong Delta are beautiful places to go walking, and especially cycling, which in my opinion is the best way to explore the paths around the islands.
Since you're visiting one of the most famous deltas in the world, why not explore the area using one of the wonderful local forms of transport, namely the boats? From the islands of Mỹ Tho to the floating market of Cái Bè, travelling by boat enables you to experience both the life of the river itself and that of the local inhabitants, and the trips along the canals are simply magical. The Mekong Delta is definitely one of the places to see when visiting Vietnam.
When I arrived from Cambodia, the Mekong delta was the first region I travelled through during my trip to Vietnam.
It's here that the waters of the legendary river flow into the China Sea. The region is often called the country's rice bowl. The soil is very fertile and there are rice paddies as far as the eye can see. Don't forget to take a trip on the river. I strongly recommend you do this wonderful day exploring the villages and floating markets, which is possible from Can Tho, Vinh Long or My Tho.
In brief, I loved my stay in the Mekong delta. I found an authentic part of Vietnam where the rhythm of life is dictated by the currents of the marvellous Mekong.
I found the Mekong delta magnificent but the circuit round it that I was offered wasn't for me. I chose a trip to the My Tho islands and we stopped endlessly while people tried to sell us things, it really tried my patience. I really liked Cai Be floating market and even though it is very touristy I think it would be a shame to miss it.
My disappointment with the trip didn't spoil the beauty of the place... The Mekong delta has luxurious countryside and along the banks of the river the life is rich and varied: fishing, sweet making, selling fruit...
I have friends who took a cruise to Cambodia on the Mekong and they loved it! For those who like going off the beaten path, I know people who have toured the rice paddies of Tra Vinh by motorbike and I think this is still the best way to see some authentic local life.