Today we had to wake up really early and be on the bus by 7:30 AM to make it to the Mekong Delta on time. Despite this and everyone being tired, we all sang karaoke music for the entire 2 hour bus ride there. This was a great way to pass the time and have fun in the process. When we arrived in the region we got on a small boat which took us across the Mekong River to where local families were displaying their products! We got to try honey tea, a bunch of local fruits, and some coconut snacks. I also got to hold a comb of bees and a python! I was terrified for the entire time, but it made for an awesome photo. Then we got on a horse pulled cart and rode through the country side to the canals. This made me feel like an explorer in a new land as we rode along the curved roads. Once we arrived we went on a ride through the narrow canals on small canoe like boats that were made out of wood. The canals were very narrow and crowded with other boats. Despite this it was very peaceful and calm. I definitely understand why it is such a hot tourist attraction.
After the boat ride we ate lunch at a local restaurant. The place had a whole baked fish, shrimp salad, beef salad, pork salad, and sticky rice. There was so much food!!! Then we had a hot pot with fish and vegetables which was amazing. All of the food was really good, even though I was a little apprehensive at first. Then I got in a big clear air filled ball and attempted to stand in it for 10 minutes on the water. However despite my best efforts I kept falling over. This was a lot of fun but it got so hot and sweaty inside it. After that I was able to feed crocodiles. It still amazes me how they stay so still until the last moment when they strike up and grab the meat. Finally, we took another boat back to the mainland to take the bus back to the hotel. Overall I think today was my favorite day so far. It was really cool to experience the local culture although it does seem to be built up by tourism. I would think that when the rainy season strikes they would see a loss in revenue. I wonder what they do to supplement their income during that period.
