October is the flood season in the Mekong Delta, which affords visitors with the wish to explore the region's natural beauty.

Some of the most popular destinations in the Southwest include Can Tho City and the provinces of Soc Trang, Bac Lieu and Ca Mau.

A typical tour around the region might start at Can Tho City and include a trip to Ninh Kieu Wharf and Cai Rang Floating Market, Bac Lieu Province well-known for Vietnamese Opera(đờn ca tài tử) and the relics of Bac Lieu Dude. A large number of pagodas can also be seen in Soc Trang Province.

Photos of the Southwest

Morning at Cai Rang Floating Market.

Early morning best time to experience the market

Regional specialties available

A lantern placed in water for good luck

500-year-old Kh’leng Pagoda outstanding example of Khmer culture

Tran Trinh Huy, 60 years old, the third son of Bac Lieu Due

House of Bac Lieu Due

Bac Lieu Due's bed

Area for Vietnamese opera performances

Votive guitars

Cajuput forests in Ca Mau

Photo-op

U Minh Ha National Park

Local life

Specialties of Ca Mau