How to get from Phu Quoc Island to Chau Doc: A Return to the Mekong Delta

The journey from Phu Quoc Island to Chau Doc marked a transition from the bustling island life to the tranquil rhythm of the Mekong Delta. Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, lies in the Gulf of Thailand, just 15 kilometers off Cambodia’s coast.

I left the island of Phu Quoc early in the morning, catching a ferry from Bai Vong Port. The calm sea breeze and the sight of locals starting their day offered a peaceful beginning.

The ferry ride, lasting an hour and a half, gave me time to reflect and write—a luxury in the waiting moments of travel. For fellow backpackers, I highly recommend the 123Go App for booking ferries and buses. It simplifies logistics and ensures smooth transitions, even in the unpredictable pace of Southeast Asia.

As I waited for the ferry to Ha Tien this morning, a 9-year-old girl approached me, selling lottery tickets. Her first request was simple: money. I hesitated, unsure of how to respond. But then, something shifted. Following the example of a Vietnamese man nearby, I handed her some money.

However, she didn’t leave. Instead, she engaged with me, teaching me an unexpected lesson in openness and connection. She began reciting the English alphabet, her small voice filled with pride and determination. Slowly, we started a conversation, exchanging words and ideas. The girl asked about my hobbies, revealing that she loved swimming.

She was no longer just a child selling ticket but a bright young soul, eager to connect and learn.

Before the ferry arrived, I took her picture, capturing her radiant smile and the victory gesture she flashed with confidence.

That moment stayed with me, sparking a deep reflection on the transformative power of education. Her determination to learn, despite her circumstances, underscored the critical need for access to education for every child, everywhere.

Upon arriving at Ha Tien, a charming relaxed town, I had some time to explore. Ha Tien is a small riverside town in southwest Vietnam, near the Cambodian border. As a gateway to Phu Quoc, it’s surrounded by limestone hills, coastal plains, and the Mekong River, making it an ideal stopover for travelers exploring the region.

A stroll through the streets led me to a local café where I tried a unique coffee preparation. Served in a three-tiered setup, the coffee slowly dripped into the glass, creating a rich, concentrated flavor. Accompanied by a pot of anise tea, it was a simple yet memorable experience, costing just 25,000 dongs (about €1).

The next leg of the journey took me on a small, slightly worn-out bus to Chau Doc. It wasn’t the comfortable coach I had envisioned, but its charm lay in its functionality.

The driver doubled as a courier, stopping to pick up and deliver packages along the way. The countryside, unfolded outside the window, offering a constant reminder of the delta’s beauty.

Traveling through the Mekong Delta brought a series of cultural insights. Women here take meticulous care to protect their skin from the sun, wearing long clothing and masks, and even bathing fully clothed. It’s a healthy habit that preserves their skin from the harsh tropical sun.

This time of year, the delta blooms with yellow flowers, symbolizing the upcoming Lunar New Year in the south. In contrast, the north of Vietnam welcomes pink blossoms. Another iconic sight is the lotus flower, a national symbol seen in serene ponds and lakes throughout the region.

After three hours on the road, I arrived in Chau Doc, a lively town in the Mekong Delta near the Cambodian border. A friendly scooter driver named Vang greeted me, effortlessly combining efficiency with charm. He offered to guide me the next day, proudly recounting his experiences with an Italian couple on a similar tour.

Vang dropped me off at the Paris Hotel, a modest two-star property that exceeded expectations with its spotless rooms and modern amenities. Just as I began to settle in, a dramatic tropical storm swept through the town, casting uncertainty over my plans for the following day. For now, I welcomed the stillness after the long journey, eager to see what surprises Chau Doc had in store.