Tien Giang, a province in the Mekong Delta region of southern Vietnam, offers a rich cultural experience and beautiful natural scenery. Including 2 big attractions in Tien Giang:
I/ My Tho, the capital of Tien Giang Province, is a vibrant city located on the banks of the Tien River. It’s known for its scenic beauty, historical sites, and bustling river life.
Attractions
1/Vinh Trang Pagoda:
- A magnificent Buddhist temple with a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer architectural styles.
- Features beautiful gardens, ornate statues, and a peaceful atmosphere.
2/Thoi Son Island (Unicorn Island):
- A popular destination for boat tours.
- Known for its lush orchards, honey bee farms, coconut candy workshops, and traditional music performances.
- Ideal for a day trip with opportunities for sampling local fruits and experiencing rural life.
3/Tien Giang Museum:
- Offers insights into the history, culture, and traditional crafts of the region.
- Displays artifacts, historical documents, and cultural exhibits.
4/Dong Tam Snake Farm:
- One of the largest snake farms in Vietnam, focusing on breeding and research.
- Visitors can see various species of snakes and learn about their conservation.
5/My Tho Cathedral:
- A beautiful French colonial-era cathedral located in the city center.
- Notable for its architecture and serene ambiance.
Activities
Boat Tours: Explore the Mekong River and its intricate network of canals. Boat tours often include stops at islands, floating markets, and local workshops.
Fruit Orchard Visits: Visit local orchards to taste fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, longans, and lychees.
Cycling: Rent a bicycle to explore the scenic countryside and discover small villages and local life.
Local Markets: Visit the bustling My Tho Market to experience the vibrant trade and try local delicacies.
Cuisine
My Tho is renowned for its delicious Mekong Delta cuisine. Be sure to try:
Hu Tieu My Tho: A local noodle soup with a clear and flavorful broth, topped with pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs.
Fresh Seafood: Enjoy dishes made from river fish, shrimp, and other seafood.
Banh Xeo: Savory Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, typically served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
My Tho offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and delicious cuisine.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season from November to April is ideal for traveling.
- Transportation: Tien Giang is about 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City.
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). It’s a good idea to carry cash as card payments might not be accepted everywhere.
- Language: Vietnamese is the official language. Learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.
II/ Cai Be is a charming district in Tien Giang Province, well-known for its floating markets, fruit orchards, and tranquil rural landscapes.
Attractions
1/Cai Be Floating Market:
- One of the most famous floating markets in the Mekong Delta, where you can experience local trade on the river.
- Best visited early in the morning when the market is most active.
- You can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies directly from the boats.
2/Ancient Houses:
- Visit old French-style houses and traditional Vietnamese homes that offer a glimpse into the past.
- Some notable ones include the Ba Duc Ancient House and Mr. Kiet’s Historic House.
- Fruit Orchards:
- Cai Be is surrounded by lush orchards where you can sample tropical fruits like pomelo, longan, and rambutan.
- Many orchards offer guided tours and tastings.
3/Tan Phong Island:
- A serene island ideal for cycling and exploring rural life.
- You can visit local workshops producing traditional handicrafts and rice paper.
4/Cai Be Catholic Cathedral:
- A beautiful French Gothic-style church located near the river provides a unique architectural contrast to the surrounding countryside.
Activities
Boat Tours: Take a boat tour through the floating market and along the river to see the daily life of locals.
Cooking Classes: Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh local ingredients.
Cycling: Rent a bicycle and explore the countryside, passing through orchards and small villages.
Cuisine
Local Delicacies: Try regional specialties like fish hotpot, grilled river fish, and fresh fruit.
Coconut Candy: Visit a coconut candy workshop to see how this sweet treat is made and to sample some fresh candies.
Rice Paper: Witness the traditional process of making rice paper, a staple in Vietnamese cuisine.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit Cai Be.
- Getting There: Cai Be is about 90 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Boat trips from Vinh Long or Can Tho are also popular options.
- Accommodation: Consider staying in a homestay to experience local hospitality and lifestyle. There are also small hotels and guesthouses available.
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). Carry cash as card payments may not be widely accepted.
- Language: Vietnamese is the primary language. Learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.
Cai Be offers a unique and authentic Mekong Delta experience with its floating markets, lush orchards, and tranquil rural charm