Chau Doc is a bustling centre and important trading post for the agricultural business of the Mekong. Located right on the border of Cambodia, a large Khmer population brings its own traditions to the floating markets, making them some of the liveliest in the land.

A respite from the chaos can be found at Nui Sam – Sam Mountain – south-west of the town, which is one of the holiest sites in southern Vietnam. At its foot is the Tay An Pagoda, distinctive for its mixed Vietnamese and Indian architectural style, while further up the mountain, the Ba Chua Xu Temple has its own festival between April and June.