My Tho offers to the traveler comming from Saigon the first glimpse of the Mekong River, which used to be crossed by a crowded ferry ride, before the opening of the new bridge. A short crossing from My Tho, the islands on the Mekong River have been developped into a tourist attraction, yet the sampan ride on narrow channels, traditional music performances, fruit and candy tastings can be pleasant. On Phoenix Island, the "Coconut Monk", nicknamed so because he ate nothing but coconuts, created a new synchretic religion and tried to bring peace and re-unification to the country. His kitch temple is a curious visit.
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