Discover Tet Traditions: A Photographic Journey Through Southern Vietnam

Can Tho is synonymous with its iconic floating markets, where the river transforms into a bustling hub of trade and activity. Large and small boats converge in a lively scene that embodies the traditions and vibrancy of the Mekong Delta. As Tet draws near, the energy and excitement reach their peak. From the comfort of a private yacht, you’ll have a front-row seat to capture the market’s vivid colors, dynamic interactions, and unique cultural charm.

After savoring a local lunch, we’ll travel to Tra Vinh Province (85 km, about a 2-hour drive), a picturesque region steeped in Khmer heritage. This area boasts ancient Khmer temples and a vibrant tapestry of cultural traditions. In the afternoon, prepare to photograph the captivating Chang dance—a vivid and rhythmic performance traditionally celebrated during Khmer holidays.

Conclude your day with a relaxing overnight stay at a comfortable hotel, ready to explore more of this culturally rich and enchanting region tomorrow.

Begin your morning by capturing the tranquil beauty of the ancient Khmer kingdom, where soft monk chants fill the air as they prepare for their morning alms ritual. This serene moment offers a glimpse into the region’s timeless spirituality and culture.

After savoring a delicious local lunch, we’ll embark on a return journey to Saigon (130 km, approximately a 3-hour drive). As we approach the city, you’ll have the chance to photograph a truly unique scene along the Saigon River in Ben Binh Dong, District 8. In the final days before Tết, boats from the Mekong Delta arrive, brimming with vibrant flowers destined for Saigon’s bustling markets. This cherished tradition beautifully blends Saigon’s urban energy with the rustic charm of the Delta, creating a stunning tableau of past and present.

The late afternoon light casts a golden glow over the river, providing perfect conditions for breathtaking sunset photography. In the evening, relax at a comfortable hotel in Saigon and recharge for the exciting adventures that await the next day.

Begin your morning by exploring Saigon’s vibrant neighborhoods, where the narrow residential alleys come alive with the festive preparations for Tet. Vietnamese and Chinese communities bustle with energy as vendors line the streets, offering everything from fresh produce to holiday essentials. This lively scene is a perfect opportunity to capture the rich traditions and everyday charm of Saigon gearing up for the Lunar New Year.

After a delicious local lunch, immerse yourself in an authentic Tet experience with a special re-enactment of locals wrapping and cooking bánh tét, a beloved Southern delicacy central to the holiday. This hands-on cultural moment allows you to photograph the warmth, traditions, and intricate craftsmanship of Tet, offering a lasting memory of the spirit and flavors of this cherished celebration.

In Vietnamese culture, family is at the heart of Tet celebrations, embodying the warmth and togetherness that define the Lunar New Year. To honor this cherished tradition, we will create an intimate and authentic Vietnamese family scene in the morning, capturing moments of love, connection, and the sacred bonds shared on the first day of the new year. This scene is a key part of your photo story, reflecting the essence of family and tradition as we approach the journey’s final chapters.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the city streets. Explore the bustling alleys, savor delectable street food, and photograph the candid, lively moments that unfold as Tet approaches. The relaxed pace offers a chance to recharge while soaking in the festive atmosphere, setting the stage for the next day’s highlight—a significant cultural ceremony that promises to be a memorable and enriching experience.

This day is extraordinary, marking the Vietnamese people’s final day of the year—a time steeped in cherished traditions to bid farewell to the past and welcome the new year with hope and cultural pride. You have two exceptional opportunities to experience and photograph the heart of Vietnamese culture:

- Option 1: Participate in the sacred Lễ dựng Nêu (bamboo pole-raising ceremony) at the tomb of a former royal official who once safeguarded Saigon. This solemn and majestic reenactment honors Gia Dinh’s traditional heritage and the spirit of old Saigon, offering a profound glimpse into the region’s history.

- Option 2: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Lion Dance Festival in Cho Lon, the heart of Saigon’s Chinese community. Watch as dozens of lion dance troupes converge at Cho Lon’s most revered pagoda. The explosion of dynamic colors, acrobatics, and high-energy performances provides endless opportunities to capture unforgettable images of this lively tradition.

After a midday rest at your hotel, prepare for an electrifying evening. At 9:00 p.m., join the New Year’s Eve countdown festival in the heart of Saigon. Marvel at dazzling fireworks, immerse yourself in the vibrant crowds, and witness the energy of the city as it ushers in the new year amidst a flurry of lights, celebrations, and the midnight rush of traffic—a grand finale to an unforgettable day.

You’ve embarked on a remarkable photo tour that captures the heart of Vietnamese culture and the traditions of Tet. Today marks the first day of the new year, a time when the Vietnamese people officially welcome the arrival of a new chapter with joy and reverence. The streets are filled with life, as many dress in their finest attire, including the graceful Ao Dai, and visit temples to honor ancestors and loved ones.

We’ll guide you to Saigon’s largest and most revered temple, where you’ll capture the sacred atmosphere as locals perform rituals to usher in the new year. This is your chance to photograph the beauty and spirituality of Tet, with women in traditional Ao Dai embodying the elegance and grace of Vietnamese culture.

In the afternoon, we’ll stroll through the streets to document the unique ambiance. Unlike the busy days leading up to Tet, today’s scenes are marked by a sense of tranquility, warmth, and renewed energy as families come together to celebrate fresh beginnings. Every frame you capture will tell a story of hope, tradition, and the timeless spirit of the new year.

On the final day of your photo tour, begin with a cup of classic Saigon street coffee, savoring its rich, bold flavor as we take you to a quiet corner where the lingering festive spirit of Tết fills the air. In this peaceful setting, we’ll reflect on the celebrations around us, offering the perfect opportunity to review the photos you’ve captured throughout the tour. Together, we’ll revisit those moments, refining your shots and filling in any gaps to craft a beautiful photo album—a heartfelt narrative of the Vietnamese people and the vibrant Tết celebrations, particularly the rich culture of Southern Vietnam.

Afterward, we’ll escort you to the airport for your journey home, leaving you with treasured memories, stunning photos, and a sense of bittersweet nostalgia that will stay with you long after you’ve returned.