Cai Be Floating Market

Fruit bunches are hung to show the type of fruit sold at Cai Be floating market

Rivers in the west region of Vietnam with the natural beauty is the interesting destination for those who want to experience the peaceful rural atmosphere. We can not forget to mention to Tien Giang – Vinh Long, where is called the “basket” of fruit in the southern. Coming to Vinh Long – Tien Giang, passed through Cai Be Floating Market – travelers can feel both unique features of Mekong Delta and enjoy the idyllic beauty of nature, people and life here.

In the early morning rafts and boats are crowded in Cai Be Floating market
In the early morning rafts and boats are crowded in Cai Be Floating market

The market takes place kilometres along the Tan Phong Isles in Tien Giang River, the section adjacent three provinces of Tien Giang, Vinh Long and Ben Tre. Together with Cai Rang and Nga Bay, Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the three largest wholesale markets in the southwest region.
Cai Be Floating Market is the place for the trading activity, opened both day and night, the transit station of fruit and products through all regions. The goods here is cheap surprisingly. The unique thing is that people hang the item they sell on a pole on the boat so that buyers can realize not need offering. The goods here is very diverse, from fabrics, household items, poultry, seafood … to food and drinks.

Pho for breakfast on a raft in Cai Be Floating Market
Pho for breakfast on a raft in Cai Be Floating Market

The most popular activity at the market is exchanging fruits of Tien Giang Province, especially tropical fruits like Lo Ren star apple, green grapefruit, Tan Lap pineapple, orange, mandarin…
From the period of King Tu Duc, Cai Be was a bustling place. All kinds of goods are transported on rafts up and down on the river.
Cai Be Floating Market is one of the most engaging sites in Tien Giang. This is a very unique culture in Mekong Delta, attracts many visitors, especially foreigners to visit.

Fruit bunches are hung to show the type of fruit sold at Cai Be floating market
Fruit bunches are hung to show the type of fruit sold at Cai Be floating market

Sunrise and sunset are the two most beautiful periods at the floating market. If you are more interested in the bustling atmosphere, the scene of crowded boats, you should go there in the early morning
For those who prefer the silence and tranquility, should visit the floating market in the afternoon, seeing the lives of the locals on boats. You will have moments of watching the stunning sunset over the river. Also, sunset is the time that the “floating town” lights up, bearing somewhat dreamy and sad. This is considered the most garish and beautiful moment at floating market of this region.