There’s something highly appealing about the curving shape of the sampan, the traditional boat that plies the waters of the Mekong River. The distinctive upward curve of its bow, painted with stylised eyes to ward off evil spirits, gives this boat a jaunty sense of personality as it transports people along this mighty waterway. It also provides a water-level view as we passengers embark on an excursion from the Mekong Serenity, the APT vessel that takes travellers on a week-long cruise along the river from Vietnam to Cambodia. The ship is a comfortable place on which to relax, with its sizeable cabins and common areas, including a sprawling lounge bar with views across the river. But there’s something to be said for boarding a smaller craft for a while, and exploring close-up our neighbourhood here in the Mekong Delta region of southern Vietnam.…