Saigon’s bustling and dynamic city life is enough to make you feel alive, but if you want to experience a sense of renewal, a three-hour trip outside the city might be exactly what you need.
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Located on a private islet along the Hau River, Legacy Mekong, Can Tho, Autograph Collection positions itself as a must-visit destination in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. If you envision yourself being surrounded by lush greenery and enjoying slow mornings entirely to yourself, this luxury resort offers more than that.
We were able to spend three days and two nights at Legacy Mekong, and it felt like we were letting time flow beautifully through our fingers as we experienced a combination of relaxation and immersive activities designed to make us look inward and appreciate the little things.
Here are the things that made our stay at Legacy Mekong extra special:
Cozy and spacious bungalows built around nature
The journey to the resort already makes a strong impression. Upon reaching the islet via a short canoe transfer, we were wholeheartedly welcomed by a gesture deeply rooted in Southern Vietnam—one that feels soft to the touch, yet you’re certain that you’ll get a taste of the Mekong and its rich culture.
One of the 60 private bungalows at Legacy Mekong, Can Tho, Autograph Collection (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
Then, a short walk finally led me to our private bungalow. The bungalows, which offer an overlooking view of either the garden or the river, feature natural materials and a thoughtfully designed layout that allows them to blend seamlessly with nature instead of standing out in the middle of nowhere.
We were already in awe as we explored the islet, but the moment we stepped into our bungalow, we felt like our bodies were already soft and ready for relaxation. A king-sized bed awaited us, framed by a woven bamboo-style accent wall that adds texture and distinctive character to the space. The room combines traditional tropical materials with a contemporary design, making it warm yet modern, with a touch of sophistication.
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There’s a television on the side to keep you entertained through a long night, as well as bedside tables equipped with charging stations and a black lamp that will keep you company while reading a book or lounging. However, the huge windows situated in front of the bed act as a perfect frame to see the trees sway in the wind or watch the rain pour through the night.
It was raining for most of our stay, which generally would’ve bothered us if we wanted to keep ourselves entertained instead of being cramped in our rooms. But instead, the floor-to-ceiling windows added a sense of tranquility as we watched each raindrop fall from the sky. It was a comforting reminder that the sun will rise again.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
Another feature we loved about our bungalow is its cozy sitting area. With plush seating and a fairly sized table where you can eat, read, or journal, it’s where we found ourselves whenever we weren’t lounging on our bed. The bungalow has many seating areas, one near the vanity area and another one outside. The seating area outside your bungalow is perfect if you want to feel the wind against your skin as you take your time reading a book in the morning or getting cozy in the afternoon.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
The bathroom offers a double vanity area, complete with a lighted makeup mirror and the necessary toiletries for your stay. Then, there are two doors, with the left leading to the standing shower and the right leading to the toilet. You never have to worry about storage space, as there’s a huge closet situated behind the vanity, where you can also find soft robes to wear as you take your time with your morning routine.
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As you let time flow freely while staying in your private bungalow, it becomes increasingly difficult to think about work or the things that keep you preoccupied. You eventually let yourself go, like a leaf floating atop a river. The moment your back hits the bed, or you watch the color of the sky change through your windows, you’ll be transported to a feeling of peace.
Time doesn’t pass by idly; it moves like a slow dance
“What can we possibly do on this island?” Secluded from Can Tho’s busy streets and rice paddy fields, and away from the Cai Rang Floating Market, you’d wind up thinking that you’ll be disconnected from Southern Vietnam’s culture and hospitality.
Coconut Wax Workshop (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
But we were glad to be proven wrong. Legacy Mekong has a curated selection of activities inspired by life on Au Islet and along the Mekong River. We were able to try a few during our stay, including a Vietnamese Coffee Art Workshop at their pool bar, a Cooking Class at the Banyan Tree, and a Coconut Wax Workshop at a covered area as the rain poured heavily that afternoon.
The highlight, however, was The Autograph Moment Sundown Ritual Ceremony. As soon as the sun fades beyond the horizon, the ceremony invites guests to immerse themselves in the Mekong Delta’s natural rhythm, where the elements of water and fire take center stage.
Sundown Ritual Ceremony (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
For this quiet ritual, we had to write down our earnest thoughts on two leaves. On one leaf, you write something hopeful, something you’re grateful for, or something you want the universe to hear. Then, you release it into the flowing river. On the other leaf, you write something you want to let go of—and once you’re done, you release it through the fire.
The ritual may sound simple on paper, but when experienced in person, it feels sincere and grounded in hope for what lies beyond your reach. We were glad to have experienced this ceremony, as it allowed us to step away from our digital worlds for a moment and reflect on our innermost feelings. Most of the time, we tend to forget that rest is more than just idling around or sleeping. Rest feels whole when you’re able to connect with your thoughts and gently let them go.
Experience it for yourself
Whenever we travel or experience something that feels luxurious, we tend to contemplate whether it’s something that’s okay to experience just once or something we’re willing to experience over and over again.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
Our stay at Legacy Mekong is something you can’t replicate elsewhere. From the moment you step onto the islet to the moment you leave, you’ll feel guided by the warmth of their hospitality and the tranquility of the serene surroundings. Three days and two nights of relaxation, accompanied by the people we met and the activities we experienced, felt so rejuvenating—not only for the body but also for the soul. It’s a healing side quest if you’re coming from the bustling cityscape of Saigon or its nearby cities.
Whether you’re a solo traveler in need of an escape, a couple looking for an intimate space to unwind, a business traveler visiting for work, or simply someone looking for a luxury resort to treat your family or a loved one, Legacy Mekong offers more than just private bungalows, exclusive villas, or top-notch facilities. The five-star resort lets you experience a space to breathe, unwind, and connect with nature.
Once you leave, it’s difficult to say that “once is enough.” You’ll want to indulge once more and discover what the islet has to offer.
To know more about rates and other related information, visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/vcalm-legacy-mekong-can-tho-autograph-collection/overview/.
ALSO READ: Going to Vietnam? Here’s How You Can Save Money While Making the Most of Your Stay
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