Discover Vinh Long Province's hidden treasures! Explore authentic Mekong Delta experiences off the tourist path. Engage with locals, savor local cuisine, cruise tranquil canals, and immerse in cultural richness.
Let us guide you through an authentic Mekong Delta exploration, not as a PR pitch, but from my personal experiences.
Navigating the intricate waterways and vibrant culture of the Mekong Delta is more than just a journey—it's an immersion into the heart and soul of Vietnam's southern region. As a local, I've had the privilege of exploring this enchanting land from A to Z, uncovering hidden gems and timeless traditions along the way. Join me as I share insights and anecdotes gleaned from years of wandering through this captivating landscape.
Unveil Vietnam's southern gem today!
Unlocking Vinh Long Province: A Local's Guide to Authentic Mekong Delta Exploration From A To Z
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vinh Long Province, an integral part of the mesmerizing Mekong Delta in Vietnam. Ditch the conventional tourist trails and delve into the heart of this enchanting region with our comprehensive insider's guide. Discover a wealth of hidden gems and non-touristy experiences that promise to unveil the true essence of Vinh Long Province.
Getting There:
Welcome to Vinh Long Province - non touristy place in Mekong Delta, Vietnam
Approximately 140 km from Saigon, traveling to Vinh Long is an ideal destination for those with limited time. In Vinh Long, you can indulge in a variety of fruits in vast orchards.
When mentioning Vinh Long, the image of a network of rivers and lush green fields immediately comes to mind. It's also the image of craft villages with famous products such as pottery, bricks, and weaving.
Visiting Vinh Long, you will feel the sincerity and warmth of the people in the Mekong Delta. The tranquil natural scenery here is also captivating and enticing.
How to Get to Vinh Long?
- Departing from Hanoi
If you're starting from Hanoi, you should book a flight or a train ticket to Ho Chi Minh City. From there, you'll travel to Vinh Long.
Currently, airlines operate frequent flights on the Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City route, offering significant time savings. With just about a 2-hour flight, you'll arrive in Ho Chi Minh City.
Means of Transport to Vinh Long: Traveling by plane helps you save time. Depending on the time, ticket prices vary. It's advisable to book tickets 3-4 months in advance and opt for early morning or late-night flights for better prices.
- Departing from Ho Chi Minh City
With a distance of 140km from Ho Chi Minh City to Vinh Long, your journey will be incredibly easy and convenient. You can choose to travel by bus or private vehicle.
By Bus: If you prefer traveling by bus, you can use the services of Phuong Trang Bus. Phuong Trang also offers door-to-door services if needed, which is very convenient. Ticket prices range 150.000 VND (6,08$) per trip.
By Car: Traveling to Vinh Long by car typically takes approximately 3 to 4 hours from Ho Chi Minh City, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. The distance between Ho Chi Minh City and Vinh Long is around 140 kilometers via the most common road route. However, factors such as road conditions and traffic congestion can influence the travel time. It's advisable to plan accordingly and consider potential delays when embarking on a road trip to Vinh Long.
- Departing from Can Tho City
Bus Travel: From Can Tho to Vinh Long, take the public bus operated by Futa Bus Line (Phuong Trang Bus). Getting a ticket is super easy. These buses are modern, equipped with air conditioning, and depart from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City every 15 minutes. During the journey, simply inform the driver that you wish to be dropped off in Vinh Long. The bus ticket costs approximately 165,000 VND (6,68$) per trip.
Boat Travel: While there isn't a public boat service yet, it's common to see tourists arranging customized boat trips from Can Tho to Vinh Long or vice versa. This option allows travelers to explore the Mekong River while bypassing the long drive and traffic congestion between the two destinations.
Ideal Time to Explore Vinh Long:
Throughout the year, Vinh Long beckons visitors with its diverse seasonal charms. However, the most favorable time to venture into Vinh Long is from September to March, characterized by pleasant weather conducive to various activities.
Floating Season (September – December):
Considered the pinnacle for Vinh Long exploration, this period invites you to partake in traditional fishing, discover unspoiled natural landscapes, and wander through picturesque orchards.
Rainy Season (May – October):
Despite occasional showers, the rainy season poses minimal disruption to Vinh Long travel plans, offering a unique perspective of the region's lush surroundings.
Dry Season (January – April):
While temperatures soar during the dry season, it coincides with the fruitful harvesting period, allowing visitors to engage in delightful fruit-picking experiences alongside local communities.
Tips:
If you're intending to visit Vinh Long during the rainy season, it's advisable to bring a raincoat, as the region presents a splendid spectacle in both rain and sunshine.
Top Attractive Tourist Destinations in Vinh Long
Tra On Floating Market
Tra On Floating Market stands as a vibrant emblem of Vinh Long's bustling trade culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere, witnessing the vibrant exchange of goods and the unique lifestyle of the Mekong Delta.
Cai Be Floating Market
Cai Be Floating Market is a captivating spectacle where locals trade goods from their boats, creating a colorful mosaic of culture and commerce on the tranquil waters of the Mekong River. Visitors can experience the authentic charm of riverine commerce firsthand.
Useful Tips:
The optimal time to explore Cai Be floating market is between 5:30 am and 6:30 am, offering the chance to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Mekong Delta river.
Choosing accommodation in a homestay close to the floating market provides the most convenient option. From there, you can rent a scooter, car, or bicycle to explore the area independently, although you'll still need to hire a boat to reach the Cai Be floating market.
If you're considering extending your stay at Cai Be Vinh Long homestay, remember to pack mosquito repellent cream to ensure a comfortable experience.
Phat Ngoc Xa Loi Pagoda (Jade Buddha)
Vinh Long holds immense potential for the development of spiritual and cultural tourism, intertwined with garden ecotourism due to its numerous communal houses and pagodas recognized as historical-cultural relics at both provincial and national levels. Phat Ngoc Xa Loi Pagoda (Jade Buddha) has recently gained widespread recognition, attracting not only Buddhists, seniors, and youth from Vinh Long province but also from across the Mekong Delta and around the world. It serves as a revered destination for worship and photography, often serving as a "virtual check-in" spot for today's youth.
Van Thanh Mieu Temple
"Responsible travel" should be reiterated time and again. Van Thanh Mieu Temple, a solemn place, requires visitors to don appropriate attire that reflects respect and modesty. With numerous sacred statues, it's essential to remind children against climbing or touching them, as they hold profound significance in Buddhism. Visitors are appreciated for their respectful behavior and urged to maintain a peaceful ambiance throughout their visit.
Useful Tips:
Remember to pack your hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as well as a scarf to cover up when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.
Top Non Touristy Things To Do in Vinh Long - Mekong Delta, Vietnam
Explore Vinh Long's Sampan Ride in Small Canals
Embark on a serene journey through Vinh Long's intricate network of small canals aboard a traditional sampan. Witness the tranquility of rural life and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Mekong Delta's waterways.
Experience Vinh Long's Coconut Candy Traditional Village
Delve into the artistry of traditional coconut candy-making in Vinh Long's quaint villages. Experience the age-old techniques and savor the sweet flavors of this local delicacy.
Cycling through non touristy Vinh Long village
Discover the charm of Vinh Long's countryside on a cycling tour through verdant landscapes and scenic paths. Encounter local life, picturesque orchards, and hidden gems along the way.
Enjoy Vinh Long Kayaking and Canalling
Embark on an adventurous kayaking excursion through Vinh Long's meandering canals, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta's waterways. Experience the tranquility and natural splendor of this unique landscape.
Immerse Yourself in the Rich Culture of Don Ca Tai Tu Folk Music
Source: Chris Avan
Renowned for their musical heritage, the people of the Mekong Delta cherish Don Ca Tai Tu, a traditional Vietnamese folk opera originating from the region. This melodious blend of ballads and theatrical performances, accompanied by zither or guitar, often portrays Vietnam's countryside with narratives that evoke various emotions. Despite language barriers, visitors can easily appreciate Don Ca Tai Tu's expressive acting and melodious singing. Several venues across Cai Be Vinh Long, including gardens, homestays, Tân Phong Islet, and An Binh Islet, feature performances of Don Ca Tai Tu music throughout the day and during dinner times.
Discover Vinh Long's Fruit Garden
Address: An Binh Island Fruit Garden - Long Ho district, Vinh Long province.
Explore the lush orchards and vibrant fruit gardens that adorn Vinh Long's landscape. Engage in fruit-picking activities, sample exotic flavors, and learn about the region's rich agricultural heritage. A visit to Vinh Long's fruit gardens promises a delightful sensory experience for visitors of all ages.
Reflecting on your journey, you realize that it wasn't just about the sights you saw or the activities you engaged in; it was about the people you met, the stories you heard, and the bonds you formed with the locals who generously shared their way of life with you.
As you bid farewell to Vinh Long Province and the Mekong Delta, you take with you a piece of their untamed beauty and authentic charm, knowing that the experiences you've had will stay with you long after you've returned home. And perhaps, inspired by the serenity of nature and the warmth of community you've encountered, you'll carry forward a newfound appreciation for the simple joys and profound wonders that surround us all.
See more: How Can a Non-Touristy Mekong Delta Trip Provide Direct Interaction with Locals?
Start your journey today and create unforgettable memories in Mekong Delta Vietnam here:
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Come and immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Vietnam, where tradition and modernity coalesce, creating an unforgettable experience. Your journey awaits, filled with the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality and the richness of its cultural tapestry.
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