Overview of Cai Be floating market
Western region of southern Vietnam is the home to amazing Cai be floating market that is one of the six popular markets. The market was organized during 19th century in Nguyen Dynasty. It is a must visit place in Mekong delta area especially for those who have never seen a floating market. These markets are like ordinary daily markets for locals whereas it is an interesting experience for tourists.
View more: Mekong Delta Tour
The extensive river system of the region has this gem that became a local way of life. There are two separate portions of the market, one is a buying part and other is the selling part.
Sellers and buyers both start coming in the market from the morning. The area becomes lively with the sounds of engines, paddles and voices of people. Boats with fruits, vegetables, products and flowers make the entire area look very beautiful.
Each boat has a long pole hung in front of it called “cay beo” that contains a sample or name of the item to attract customers.
Things to do at Cai Be floating market
Know about the local life
Cai Be floating market is not only touristy but very fun. This is the best place to learn about the local life of Mekong Delta. Hundreds of colorful boats filled with fresh products are very eye catching. Locals visit the market for their everyday items.
Attractions to visit
There are many interesting places to see in the market apart from the boats. You can see coconut candy factories, handicrafts workshops, homemade bee honey and rice popcorns, bonsai gardens and much more.
Enjoy a boat ride
Some boats are available in the market for a small trip of the floating market and its whereabouts. You can buy different things and enjoy them from the boat. Do not forget clicking photos for your travel diary. It is one of the unique and wonderful experiences. Boat trips are offered that take visitors to the narrow canals. These wooden boats are called sampan boats. A photo in a sampan boat with conical Vietnamese hat will be very interesting.
Orchard gardens
Visit the fascinating orchard gardens and listen to some Vietnamese folk music. You can have a delicious Vietnamese local food meal in the restaurant. This is more like a meeting place where you can interact with other people.
Best time to visit Cai Be floating market
Visit market in the morning to see starting of the day in Mekong delta. Market starts closing in the mid- day so it is better to reach as early as possible. There are some other floating markets as well, you can explore them as well to learn about the local life and buy souvenirs for your friends and family member.
Accommodation budget moderate and expensive near Cai Be floating market
Phuong Nam Hotel
This is the best option for budget travelers. Hotel is located at the main street from where Sadek market, food places, and bus stop are near. Hotel has Air conditioning, internet and other facilities. It is just a walk away from the city center.
Ninh Kieu Riverside Hotel
It is a mid-range hotel that is located near supermarkets, parks, museums, dining and entertainment places. You can visit many places easily by walk, if you stay in this hotel. It offers free parking, internet, fitness center, complimentary breakfast and much more.
Con Khuong Resort Can Tho
It is a very beautiful luxruxy resort with a shape of a lotus flower located near the Hau River. Lotus flowers is a symbol in Vietnam. There are green trees, tropical fruits and colorful plants near the river.
Places to eat
Le Longanier
This restaurant is a very beautiful space by the river surrounded by a lush tropical garden and fruit plantations. It serves Asian and Vietnamese cuisines along with many vegetarian options.
Meo U kitchen
Restaurant has a variety of food options like Japanese, Asian and Vietnamese cuisines. You can also check vegetarian and vegan options from the menu.
Avengers Pub and Grill
Avengers is a grill and Baubecue place where you can try delicious seafood. It also has many fast food options. You can order delicious drinks and cocktails from the menu.
Airport info
Mekong has two airports that operate for domestic and international flights. One airport is in Phu Quoc island and other in Can tho.
Transportation
You can easily get there by a private car, local bus or a motor bike. If you are in Saigon, then book a day tour to the floating market. Another interesting way to explore the delta is a boat trip. You can also book a private boat trip with your partner.
Cai Be floating market is a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty of the local life of Mekong Delta. You can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, souvenirs and Vietnamese handicrafts.
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