Page 3 - AAA Now – AAA Central Penn – March/April 2022

TRAVEL AGENCY
AAANOW!
The Mekong River rises in China’s Tibetan Plateau and drains a large part of Southeast Asia, finally meeting the South China Sea in southern Vietnam. As the 12th largest river in the world, spanning more than 2,700 miles, it serves as a vital lifeline for the entire region, with villages and towns dotting its entire length as it passes through, or defines the border between six different countries. This mighty river is flanked by awe- inspiring landscapes and boundless wonders, and as a result, river cruises are an extremely popular way to explore the area.
Even now, when our world has undoubtedly changed,
the appeal of river cruising remains strong, especially in
light of today’s environment, as it offers a more intimate and personalized travel experience. This is particularly true when cruising the Mekong, as the ships here are smaller than those used on European rivers. Guests currently returning from river cruises in this region indicate they felt assured at all times that their health and safety were always the crew’s top priority.
If you are thinking of discovering the beautiful destinations along the Mekong River, here are a few helpful tips on what you can see and when to travel.
An intoxicating fusion of East meets West, life along the Mekong is a melting pot for the senses. From ancient pagodas and 12th-century temples to dense forestry and awe-inspiring
River Cruising: The Mekong River
waterfalls, this is a fascinating region of the world where natural and manmade wonders coexist in peaceful harmony. Most of the Mekong River cruises explore at least two of the six nations – Vietnam and Cambodia. Whether you wander around the vibrant cities, such as Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), and Phnom Penh, meet local residents in the charming riverside communities or listen to peaceful chanting and receive a special blessing from the monks at a Buddhist monastery, there is something to captivate and excite even the most seasoned traveler.
Some of the many highlights along the Mekong River include the Cai Rang floating market and Hanoi’s Temple of Literature. A journey along the Mekong wouldn’t be complete without visiting Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Vietnam. The country’s largest city blends old and new together with its soaring modern skyscrapers set alongside ancient temples. The city serves as the starting point for many of the river cruises in this area. As an added benefit, if time permits, a few extra days here prior to your cruise departure will provide the extra needed time to see all this city has to offer.
A stop in Phnom Penh provides insight into Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center. The Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and
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