The Mekong Delta region, famous fruits gardens and romantic waterways, may be host to more visitors this year.

Lonely Planet , the largest travel guide book, has rated the Mekong Delta region among the “Best-Value Destinations for 2012 (destinations where your dollar gets you even further!)”.

The rating is expected to help promote the region's image to international visitors around the world. 

Here is what Lonely Planet got to write about the destination: "Vietnam is always good value, but you can now skip the package trips arranged in Ho Chi Minh City that tread the same worn-out routes. It’s become easier, more rewarding and just as cheap to go on DIY multiday adventures to destinations like Ben Tre, Chau Doc and the floating markets of Vinh Long, and some less-seen ones like Ha Tien or Tra Vinh. Go by air-conditioned bus or hire moto-taxis as you go; the latter know ferry crossings on roads not on any map. Boat trips go for US$5 to US$10, while most guesthouses run US$10 to US$25."

Below are some photos of Vietnam's Mekong Delta by DTiNews.

The Mekong Delta region is known for being inexpensive

 

Waterway

 

Wooden bridges

 

Urban get a taste of a different life

Smiles

 

Life on the waterway

Beauty in the simple and natural

Interested in coconut candy called Dong Thap

 

Folk songs

 

A good time




 

Women in traditional pajamas

 

A market for tourists

Satisfied smiles

 New hope for Vietnam's tourism in 2012