Riviera Travel: How cruising down the Mekong has changed

To a generation of people, Vietnam isn’t a country: it’s a war. One certain nation whom shall remain nameless, although it starts with ‘A’ and ends in ‘Merica’, has expressed plenty of opinion regarding the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Yet, while images are broadcast of Vietnamese residents clamouring to board those last choppers out of Saigon, things have changed since then. People are now queuing up to get in. And it’s not hard to see why.

Stunning landscapes and spirituous mantras aside, the Mekong region bristles with culture and staggering experiences. This is a region that shimmers with free spirit, where government "enforced” demands stipulate protective clothing for road users, yet few pay attention. Traffic lights remain advisory. Moped riders prefer wearing stylish hair-dos rather than donning a crash helmet. Think Turin, but with an even better climate.

The Mekong is no longer a political playground for overseas nations. The French, the Americans and the Russians have all come and gone, leaving a bespoke philosophy for an emerging fresh civilisation.

Should you seek arbitrary and exotic charm as your forte, you’ll find it here. After all, this is where the law states bars and restaurants must close at 11.30 pm – yet, last time I was there, we got home for sunrise. It’s not hard to see why the Vietnamese are often dubbed ‘the Italians of Asia’. It’s fantastic.

And Italian-ism doesn’t stop at harmless rule-breaking for the ultimate bohemian vibe. This area of Southeast Asia offers the seemingly impossible, from gazing upon a 13th-century vista while relaxing on a 21^st-century balcony, to delivering a symphony of authentic flavours and local dishes from God's-own recipe book. There’s so much culture in the air that it’s hard not to become intoxicated.

In fact, to absorb the region’s unique experience, you’re going to need a tour guide – and that’s where Riviera Travel steps in.

Riviera: A journey on the Mekong

Down the spine of the Mekong, there's a deep, time-honoured tradition: Sống chậm – live slowly. This philosophy celebrates mindfulness and simplicity, while developing a connection with the natural world. It has become the essence of life along a river offering the world’s most diverse ecosystem.

Here, life moves with the gentle rivulet of a tranquillised sand timer. Communities thrive on traditions rooted in agriculture, spirituality and respect for the land. Tourists, especially those on a Mekong river cruise with Riviera, find themselves immersed in this timeless way of living, where every sunrise over the water, every bustling floating market and every interaction with local villagers reflects this peaceful, reflective pace. It’s tranquil enough to leave you whispering between fellow cruise-goers.

Utilising Riviera’s intricate expertise as a guide brings an authentic glimpse into the heart of this stunning river region. As you drift past rice paddies, ancient pagodas, and vibrant markets, you experience the soul of the region – one where time seems to slow, allowing for introspection and connection.

It’s more than an exotic river cruise; it’s a chance to feed the soul and revel, wide-eyed, in an unprocessed panorama as the scenery changes with each meander. You can view it from one of Riviera’s excellent restaurants, or your sumptuous cabin while sipping on English breakfast tea.

Then there’s Cambodia, which perfectly embodies the Southeastern ethos for a soothing glide into quietude. Well, that and the best cuisine on this side of Vietnam.

Exploring Cambodia with Riviera

As Cambodia opens its new chapter of contemporary tourism while preserving its rich past, the country’s turbulent heritage lays a strong foundation for a Riviera-sponsored glimpse into the Mekong’s ever-evolving identity.

Riviera will take you to iconic landmarks like Angkor Wat, where you can immerse yourself in peaceful rural settings. In contrast, you can then experience vibrant riverfront cities such as Phnom Penh. These are places that will set the senses alight, animating your passion for exploration.

The Mekong’s calm waters and Riviera's seamless service allow you to explore at your own pace, making a Riviera cruise the ideal way to absorb Cambodia's captivating blend of tradition and progress. Of course, the Cambodians run with the same zesty vibe as those in Vietnam for the full Mekong spirit.

Water pistols are banned here, while buckets and hoses remain lawful. Dancing on the street to the musical beat of big cars largely upsets the establishment, meaning that all horns deemed ‘musical’ have been removed – creating an underground movement for musical car horns and water guns. It’s Monty Python-esque, but with incredible Samlor Korkor and Bai sach chrouk. You’ll never want to leave.

Put simply, you don’t learn this stuff when sticking to the tourist traps. You need to venture off the beaten track and, again, Riviera is the expert in providing a true taste of the real Cambodia. There’s French colonial architecture lurking between lush jungles and floating villages, before you interact with local artisans and communities where stilt houses line the riverbanks – something unseen by most tourists to the country.

Riviera’s balance of discovery and tranquillity remains the essence of cruising down Cambodia’s waterways. The Mekong's serene landscapes and the deep-rooted traditions offer travellers a chance to step away from the rush of modern life and embrace a profound sense of calm and clarity.

It’s a journey not just through a region, but through a philosophy that enriches the soul. And Riviera Travel can take you there with gusto – in five-star luxury with gourmet dining, naturally.

Why cruise with Riviera down the Mekong?

Choosing Riviera Travel for your Mekong River cruise means embracing a company that values cultural empathy and mindful travel. Riviera understands the delicate balance between showcasing Southeast Asia’s beauty and preserving the dignity of its people.

Rather than imposing on local communities, Riviera fosters genuine connections; ensuring that each stop respects Cambodia and Vietnam’s history and a promising future. While some still view the region through outdated 20th-century perceptions, they neglect the dynamic growth and rich heritage of these areas. Riviera's respectful approach ensures that you experience Cambodia without exploitation or intrusion, honouring both tradition and progress.

From the Vietnamese love for sidewalk tea culture and the playful water puppetry shows that tell ancient stories, to Cambodia's reverence for spirit houses that guard against bad luck - these unique customs add character to daily life.

The best part? Riviera’s all-inclusive package ensures that you enjoy full board, excursions and return flights and transfers. Certain itineraries also include hotel stays, showcasing the absolute beauty of the Mekong’s greatest locations, and their incredible inhabitants.

Letting history cloud your view of Vietnam, Cambodia and the Mekong River means missing out on a region that has transformed itself into a vibrant, welcoming destination. These countries are no longer defined by the struggles of the last century but are instead thriving with rich cultures, achingly gorgeous landscapes, and resilient communities eager to share their stories.

These are people who are writing a new, exciting chapter of history. And you can be there, with curated experts for the full package, and witness a new dawn with Riviera Travel.