Under the scorching April sun of Saigon, Ms. Nga returned from her 8-day, 7-night journey aboard the La Marguerite, cruising along the Mekong River from the vibrant port of Mỹ Tho to the ancient city of SiemReap. The fatigue of the long trip was visible on her face. When asked for a portrait, she appeared shy and humble. Yet, intriguingly, the moment the word “Mekong” was mentioned, her eyes lit up—sparkling withpride and passion, as if she were falling in love all over again.
“The Mekong has something very special… something that’s hard to put into words.”
With more than 30 years in the tourism industry, Ms. Nga has travelled extensively from North to South Vietnam. But as if by destiny, when river tourism and cruise journeys began to flourish, her heart chose to “anchor” itself along the quiet waterways of the Mekong Delta.
Although she began her career in 1994, it wasn’t until 2005 that she truly felt she had found her place. For her, each journey is not merely a job, but a privilege:
“Every time I guide a tour, it’s another opportunity to experience the local life, culture, cuisine, and arts.”
She is deeply captivated by the Mekong’s unique charm—a beauty that is simple yet profound. When recalling the tranquil mornings or the golden sunsets over the river, she excitedly shares:
“Oh, it’s incredibly beautiful—and international guests absolutely love it!”
The Right Humor, in the Right Moment
In the art of cultural storytelling, Ms. Ngà believes that while information may fade, emotions and laughter remain. To make her stories memorable, she skillfully incorporates anecdotes and humor into hernarration.
For instance, when guiding French tourists at Vĩnh Bửu Pagoda, she humorously reminds them to distinguish between “bonzesse” (a nun) and “gonzesse” (a slang term with a completely different meaning). The laughter that follows not only lightens the atmosphere but also keeps her audience engaged and attentive.
She believes that when humor is delivered with sincerity, it creates a genuine connection and leaves a lasting impression.
La Marguerite – A Floating Hotel on the Mekong
In her memory, stepping aboard the La Marguerite for the first time was truly overwhelming.
“So beautiful! So luxurious!” she recalls, at a time when luxury cruises on the Mekong were still a novelty.
What sets La Marguerite apart is not only its five-star comfort but also its unique experience. While many international travellers are familiar with vast oceans, they are often amazed by the gentle journey of a “floating hotel” weaving through riverside villages.
From the balcony, they witness the most authentic slices of local life: families washing by the riverbanks, children napping in hammocks hung between stilted houses, and clusters of water hyacinths drifting peacefully with the current.
Some elderly travellers from France, Germany, and Italy have even chosen this as their first overseas trip later in life. For them, the Mekong is not just a destination—it is a journey to rediscover the most genuine and untouched values of life.
A Hope for Sustainable Tourism
Beyond being a storyteller, Ms. Nga carries a deep concern for the sustainability of tourism in the Mekong region. She constantly wonders how to bring more visitors to traditional craft villages and how tourism can help sustain livelihoods for local communities in flood-prone areas.
To her, the financial value of tourism may not always be significant, but it provides stable jobs for people in their hometowns. She respects their choice to live a peaceful life in a clean, natural environment rather than chasing the hustle of the city.
“They cherish a peaceful life—simple, modest, yet truly fulfilling.”
This, she believes, is the most authentic beauty she wishes to share with international visitors.
Focus Travel – More Than Colleagues
Throughout her career, Ms. Nga has worked with many organisations, but with Focus Travel, she shares a particularly deep bond. From office staff to the onboard team of La Marguerite—chefs, sailors, and housekeeping staff—she considers them all as part of one family.
There is no hierarchy, only understanding and shared passion for the river.
“I’m proud to be a member of Focus!”
A simple statement, yet it reflects a profound loyalty and love from a guide who has devoted her heart to the Mekong and to those who journey alongside her.
