Phong Dien floating market is one of the markets that represents the cultural identity and activities of Can Tho people. You will immerse yourself in a simple lifestyle and enjoy many delicious and attractive specialties. The bustling scene of buyers and sellers and the peaceful beauty of the sunrise on the boat will excite every tourist.
Where is Phong Dien Floating Market located?
How to get to Phong Dien Floating Market
There are two common ways to get to Phong Dien floating market.
By road: Starting from the center of Can Tho city, you follow 30/4 street. When moving to the roundabout, turn left onto road 3/2, continue to Cai Rang bridge, then go straight to 923 Road to reach the floating market.
By water: You can go to Ninh Kieu Wharf, then rent a boat to go straight to the floating market.
The best time to visit the floating market
Most of the floating markets in Can Tho are open all year round and early in the morning. Therefore, the best time to visit Phong Dien Floating Market is around 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. It is the time trading activities are taking place busily and bustlingly. Besides, the weather is pleasant in the early morning, so tourists can enjoy the fresh air.
What does Phong Dien Floating Market sell?
Phong Dien floating market sells a variety of products, ranging from local fruits and vegetables to household items such as roofing leaves, knives, hoes, machetes, etc. Some boats even sell products of weaving craft such as baskets, baskets, baskets, sieves, sifting, and tearing rods.
In addition, the market also serves food: rice noodle soup, grilled pork with rice noodles, porridge, duck salad, noodles, coffee, etc. Currently, the floating market also offers floating gas stations for passing boats, machine repair stores, and so on.
The History of Phong Dien Floating Market
The floating markets in the Mekong Delta are said to have been formed in the North of Hau River in the 18th century. With the increase in trading agricultural products, people needed a hub to exchange their products.
However, road transport hadn’t been expanded, so the best way was to carry those farming products on the boat. Traders started to gather confluence of many things tributary of the river and canals, having a favorable location, to exchange their goods.
The story behind the eyes of the boat
Many tourists wondered why many boats at the floating markets have a pair of eyes. Each region in Viet Nam has different explanations for this trait of culture. According to some local legends, drawing the dragon’s eyes will ward off aquatic monsters.
The previous generation believed boats were also underwater creatures and needed eyes to see to avoid aquatic monsters that hindered them underwater. Boats in the Mekong Delta often have round eyes, black irises, and white labels, revealing a gentle attitude.
Bamboo poles at Phong Dien Floating Market
What to do at Phong Dien Floating Market
Enjoy breakfast on the boat at Cai Rang Floating Market
Visiting the floating market, visitors cannot miss the chance to enjoy delicious dishes. The boat owners serve breakfast with many Southern traditional dishes such as rice noodle soup, grilled pork with rice noodles, and others. These dishes have bold characteristics of the local cuisine. Enjoying breakfast while watching the bustling scene, the sunrise, and the sound of the bells will be a must-tried activity.
Take impressive photos at Cai Rang Floating Market
Apart from attractive food, the floating market is also attractive because of its tranquil landscape. Phong Dien Floating Market has a vibrant market scene with a beautiful river, colorful boats, and friendly people. Visitors can take impressive photos of the sunrise and peaceful scenery or people who are busy exchanging products. This photo can make your trip more unforgettable.
Sip the ‘floating coffee”
‘Floating coffee’ is used to call the coffee cups offered by local people on the boats at Phong Dien floating market. Vietnamese coffee is always somewhat captivating to every foreign tourist due to its unique taste. But when you enjoy it right at the floating market, it will be a different sense. You can get a delicious cup of coffee at a reasonable price. Starting your day with floating coffee and enjoying the relaxing scene of the Phong Dien floating market is a time-worthy experience.
Enjoy fresh tropical fruit on the boat
Phong Dien District is famous for having a lot of fruit gardens; therefore, many people sell tropical fruits at the floating market. Coming there, tourists can enjoy different kinds of fresh tropical fruits such as durians, Ha Chau strawberries, jackfruits, mangosteens, pineapples, and so on. Don’t hesitate to try any kind of fruits here.
Talk to the traders at Phong Dien Floating Market
Traders on the boat here are usually friendly and welcoming. They always smile and have a sense of humor. If you have the opportunity to go to the floating market, do not hesitate to chat with the traders here. They will impress you with interesting stories.
