Buzz
If you're seeking a place that epitomizes the simplicity and charm of the Mekong Delta, then look no further than my hometown – Ngã Năm floating market,” expressed 29-year-old Nguyen Hoàn Hảo.
When in Sóc Trăng, don't forget to explore the vibrant Ngã Năm floating market.
The Ngã Năm floating market is situated in the administrative area of Ngã Năm town, Thanh Trị district, Sóc Trăng. Reflecting on this market, Hảo enthusiastically shared, “A morning here, whether sunny or rainy, drifting along the floating market is an incredibly enjoyable experience. To me, the floating market isn't just a place for trade but also a keeper of the Mekong Delta's culture and its hospitable people.”
The bustling period at the floating market is usually from around 3-4 in the morning, but if you're looking to capture beautiful photographs, arriving a bit later is advisable. Between 6-7 in the morning, as the sun rises, you'll have the perfect light for some Instagram-worthy shots.
A small boat swiftly transports Hảo to the main branch of the river where numerous boats from all around gather for trading and exchanging goods. The atmosphere becomes lively, yet everything remains humble and close-knit.
At the floating market, you'll often come across a common sight: hanging displays. These are used by vendors to showcase their goods on boats. The hanging displays at Ngã Năm floating market stand out from others as they are hung horizontally for convenient advertising of the diverse range of items they're selling.
Ngã Năm floating market mainly sells seasonal agricultural products and fruits. During this season, the predominant fruits are bananas, lychees, and coconuts... The market also features numerous boats selling food with a variety of local specialties, among which the renowned Sóc Trăng soup noodle is a must-try.
Additionally, there are boats selling broken rice, noodle soup... Visiting the market early, enjoying delicious dishes on the river, then strolling around to buy fresh and truly delicious agricultural products is a truly delightful experience.
The vendors on the boats are all very cheerful because almost every customer who comes to the market buys something, and they buy everything. From fresh vegetables to fruits, taro, dried goods, toys... everything is available. Each boat is piled high with goods, displaying a lush green color of pumpkins, or a bright red with lychees, dragon fruits, and mangoes... forming vibrant patches of color on the river.
It's unexpectedly delightful when a sudden rain shower pours down. Both sellers and buyers are very comfortable, quickly putting on raincoats then... swiftly continuing their transactions. The river branches seem livelier with the sound of raindrops falling gently on the water surface, the canvas awnings.... intermingled with the constant laughter of the locals.
For Hoàn Hảo, the floating market is where the freshest memories are preserved. 'People from the Mekong Delta are like that, very optimistic, laughing at everything. Every little thing is no big deal, it's all good,' Hảo said with a cheerful smile.
Reporting by Theo Trinh from Plo.vn
***
Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourNovember 4th, 2019
