This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Chau Doc.
Situated on the edge of the Mekong Delta, Chau Doc is a perfect stopover on your way to Vietnam from Cambodia. The city’s expansive multicultural communities – significant groups of Cham, Chinese, and Khmer – gives visitors to this town plenty to explore.
Chau Doc’s position along the banks of the Hau Giang River makes this a perfect commercial trade centre, and the city’s primary export is its wide variety of fish sauces. There aren’t many tourist attractions in this thriving community, but this makes it a wonderful option for travelers who are hoping to relax and unwind with a traditional massage and some delicious fresh food.
While visiting Chau Doc, be sure to take an excursion to Sam Mountain. As this destination is 6km from the city, you will need to find transportation, but the view from the peak of the mountain gives tourists with the perfect opportunity to snap some photos of the beautiful hilly landscape and spectacular river view.
Accommodation in Chau Doc is limited, but travelers can find local hostels and hotels at a very good value near the centre of the city. Hostels near the main market area provide tourists with the perfect location to get out and explore the community, and visitors looking for a more unique experience can spend a night or two in one of the floating hotels along the river.
Many travelers spend a night or two in Chau Doc when making their way between Vietnam and Cambodia, so transportation is readily available. Tourists can take a bus or boat to Phnom Penh, but visitors are advised to plan ahead and pack extra money and some snacks before embarking on a journey from their hostels or hotels. More adventurous travelers can also hop on the back of motorbikes to take a quick trip through the streets of Chau Doc.
Written by local enthusiast for Chau Doc hostels
Jakob Lombardi