Buzz
As one of the oldest floating markets still in existence in the Mekong Delta, Ngã Năm Floating Market showcases the unique cultural essence of the waterway region, drawing visitors from all over.
Introduction to Ngã Năm Floating Market
Some of the most famous floating markets in Vietnam include Cái Bè (Tiền Giang), Long Xuyên (An Giang), Cái Răng (Cần Thơ), Ngã Bảy (Hậu Giang), and Ngã Năm (Sóc Trăng). In the past, these markets thrived on waterway trade, bustling with boats and barges selling goods. Today, the market is not as lively as it once was.
Ngã Năm Floating Market is located in Ngã Năm Town, about 60 km from Sóc Trăng city. The name 'Ngã Năm' came about when the French constructed the Phụng Hiệp canal and the Xáng canal, crossing the Xẻo Chích river, creating a junction where five rivers converge from five different directions. These rivers are Long Mỹ, Vĩnh Quới, Phụng Hiệp, Phước Long, and Phú Lộc.
The market typically operates from 4 to 5 in the morning, reaching its peak between 6 and 7 a.m. Visitors can enjoy breakfast right on the boat, with specialties like bún nước lèo, bún riêu, bánh tằm, along with iced coffee, salted lemon, or sweet tea. To identify what a boat is selling, look for the 'cây bẹo,' a bamboo pole with the type of goods being sold hanging from it. For example, a boat selling mangoes will hang mangoes from the pole, while a boat selling sweet potatoes will display sweet potatoes.
The charm of the floating market
Amidst the vast waterways, the lights of boats, both large and small, illuminate the water as they gather their goods from the early morning hours. As dawn breaks, the market buzzes with the lively calls and greetings between vendors and customers. The energy of Ngã Năm Floating Market lies in its bustling trade atmosphere. Alongside this, the fresh produce available year-round showcases the richness of the region.
In addition to local trading, the floating market attracts many boats from distant regions. Merchants from Cà Mau, Bạc Liêu, Đồng Tháp, and Cần Thơ join in the market. After receiving their goods, the boats disperse in different directions, and by 10 a.m., the market begins to quiet down. The boats that linger the longest are typically those selling food. Here, boats equipped with pots and stoves cook hot meals for breakfast, while others offer drinks for customers until noon.
Ngã Năm Floating Market not only caters to local trading needs but has also become a popular attraction. The market offers a wide range of goods, from fruits and vegetables to rice, salt, fish, and clothing. Nowadays, the market vendors are familiar with tourists exploring the area. Visitors from afar enjoy regional dishes and have the chance to sample fresh, handpicked fruits. Coupled with the warm hospitality of the Mekong Delta people, the floating market leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnJuly 29, 2024
