On the morning of March 19, Mekong Smile was honored to participate and contribute a presentation to the Scientific Seminar: “Assessment of the Implementation Results of the River Tourism Supply Chain Model in Can Tho City and Solutions for Improvement.” Organized by Nam Can Tho University (DNC), this event gathered scientists, management agencies, and travel businesses to seek breakthrough solutions for river-based tourism.
Solving the Equation: “Great Potential, Under-utilized”
At the seminar, experts and delegates frankly acknowledged the reality: Although Can Tho possesses “unique” values such as the Cai Rang Floating Market and a dense canal system, river tourism exploitation remains limited. Current development is fragmented, with destinations being disconnected and lacking a tight linkage within the service supply chain.
With a spirit of inquiry and a sense of responsibility as a local travel agency, Mekong Smile brought practical perspectives to the seminar based on years of experience serving both domestic and international tourists
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Mekong Smile: Shifting Mindset from “Destination” to “Value Experience Chain”
Presenting at the forum, Mr. Ngo Minh Đức Uy – Inbound Market Development Director of Mekong Smile, emphasized the importance of designing products through a linked chain. According to Mr. Uy, for river tourism to break through, a change in approach is vital:
“River tourism is not just about sitting on a boat, visiting a floating market, or entering a fruit orchard. It must be a themed discovery journey that provides a rich experience and leaves a lasting impression on visitors. To achieve this, we must shift from a ‘fragmented destination’ mindset to designing ‘experience routes with a seamless value chain’, closely connecting transportation, accommodation, cuisine, and culture.”
He also affirmed that preserving local identity and synchronizing service quality are the keys to creating sustainable competitiveness for Can Tho tourism.
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Core Values from Mekong Smile: “Seamless Experience Chain”
Instead of merely selling simple sightseeing tours, Mekong Smile establishes a distinct value through “Themed Journeys.” This strategic vision was highly appreciated by experts at the seminar.
- From “Destination” to “Mobile Experience Space”: Mekong Smile does not view boats simply as means of transport. Every vessel is a “mobile cultural space” where guests begin their experience the moment they step onto the pier, through light local snacks, traditional “Don Ca Tai Tu” music, and storytelling about the Hau River.
- Personalizing the Inbound Experience: With a strength in the international market, the company focuses on “Deep Travel.” This involves taking visitors into small canals to directly interact with the authentic local life of the Mekong people, rather than just observing from afar.

Ninh Kieu – Binh Thuy: The Heart of Linked Development
The seminar paid special attention to the pilot model of the Ninh Kieu – Binh Thuy route. This is a key route that Mekong Smile is actively promoting, connecting Ninh Kieu Wharf with national relics such as Binh Thuy Temple, Binh Thuy Ancient House, the Hung King Temple, and the Son Islet (Cồn Sơn) community-based tourism site.
Mekong Smile is realizing this supply chain by:
- Working closely with the Son Islet community, supporting locals in practicing professional tourism while maintaining their rustic charm.
- Building products that connect spiritual and cultural elements at local heritage sites, turning every stop into an emotional link in the customer’s value chain.

Commitment to a Sustainable Tourism Ecosystem
By participating in this scientific seminar at Nam Can Tho University, Mekong Smile brings not just figures, but a long-term commitment to community responsibility:
- Identity Preservation: Strictly avoiding over-commercialization to keep the “soul” of the floating market and the river lifestyle alive.
- Symbiotic Linkage: Mekong Smile acts as the “lead engine,” connecting farmers and small boat owners to a professional supply chain, ensuring locals benefit from tourism.
- Every Staff Member as a “Cultural Ambassador”: Our guides are trained not only in knowledge but also in their love for the Mekong Delta, ensuring every story touches the hearts of our guests.

Signature “Deep Travel” Tours at Mekong Smile
Bringing the vision of a value-based experience to life, Mekong Smile is proud to introduce signature products focused on cultural depth:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time for a Can Tho river tour?
Can Tho has a mild climate year-round. However, for the full river experience, visit during the floating season (Sept – Nov) or the fruit season (June – Aug). For the Cai Rang Floating Market, start your journey between 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM to see the busiest trading activities.
Does Mekong Smile organize private tours?
Yes. We prioritize private tours to ensure privacy and personalize the experience according to the needs of each group, especially for international guests seeking deep cultural insights.
Is river tourism safe?
Safety is our top priority. 100% of Mekong Smile’s vessels are equipped with life jackets and standard safety gear, operated by experienced pilots who know the local waterways intimately.
How is sustainable tourism practiced at Mekong Smile?
We limit plastic waste on board, prioritize local ingredients, and directly share profits with local communities by hiring local boats and sourcing from traditional craft villages.
