1. How many floating markets are there in Can Tho and where are they located?
There are four floating markets in Can Tho, Vietnam. They are:
1) Cai Rang Floating Market: located on the Cai Rang River, about 6km from Can Tho city center.
2) Phong Dien Floating Market: located on the Hau River, about 17km from Can Tho city center.
3) Ninh Kieu Floating Market: located on the Can Tho River, in Ninh Kieu district of Can Tho city.
4) Tra On Floating Market: located on the Hau River, about 35km from Can Tho city center.
2. What is the history behind the establishment of these floating markets?
Floating markets, also known as stilt markets, have been an important part of the trading culture in Asia for centuries. The origin of these markets dates back to the early days of human civilization when waterways were the main mode of transportation and communication.
In many Asian countries, such as Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, water plays a vital role in people’s lives. These countries have extensive networks of rivers and canals that are used for transportation, fishing and agriculture. As a result, floating markets emerged as a convenient way for people living along the waterways to buy and sell their goods.
The earliest records of floating markets can be found in China during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD). At this time, many Chinese cities were built along rivers or near lakes, making it easier to transport goods by boat. The water towns and villages became popular sites for trade fairs where merchants would gather to sell their products from boats directly to customers on the riverbanks.
In Thailand, floating markets came into existence during the Ayutthaya period (1350-1767) when canals were dug to connect various parts of the kingdom. These canals became major transportation routes for both people and goods. The most famous market at that time was Taling Chan Floating Market near Bangkok.
During the 19th century, as Western influences spread throughout Asia and modern transportation systems were established on land, traditional floating markets declined in popularity. However, in recent years there has been a revival of these markets as they have become tourist attractions and a nostalgic reminder of traditional ways of life.
Today, floating markets continue to thrive in many Asian countries as a vibrant part of local culture and economy. They offer tourists a unique shopping experience and provide locals with a means to earn a living through selling fresh produce, handicrafts, and other goods from their boats.
3. How do local fishermen and farmers transport their goods to the floating markets?
Local fishermen and farmers often transport their goods to the floating markets using small wooden boats called sampans. They can also use larger boats or barges for larger quantities of goods. Some may even use motorized boats with a covered roof to protect their goods from the elements. In some cases, they may also use carts and bicycles to transport their goods to nearby docks where they can then be loaded onto boats for transport to the floating market.
4. Are there any particular types of products that are popular at the Can Tho floating markets?
Some popular products at the Can Tho floating markets include freshly caught fish, vegetables and fruits (such as watermelon, pineapple, and papaya), seafood, rice, souvenirs, and local specialties like Mekong Delta honey and rice wine.
5. How do buyers and sellers communicate with each other at the floating markets, given the language barrier?
At the floating markets, buyers and sellers typically communicate using a combination of hand gestures, facial expressions, and basic keywords or phrases in each other’s language. Additionally, some sellers may have a small chalkboard or paper with numbers written on it to indicate prices. Tourists may also use translation apps on their smartphones to communicate with vendors. In some cases, sellers may have basic knowledge of English or other languages commonly spoken by tourists in the region. However, the majority of communication at the floating markets is nonverbal and relies on visual cues and gestures.
6. Is it possible to charter a boat or join a tour to visit the floating markets as a tourist?
Yes, it is possible to charter a boat or join a tour to visit the floating markets as a tourist. There are many tour companies that offer group tours or private charters to the floating markets. Some tours also include other attractions such as temple visits, elephant rides, and traditional Thai performances. It is recommended to do some research and book in advance with a reputable tour company for the best experience.
7. What is the best time of day to visit the Can Tho floating markets for the full experience?
The best time to visit the Can Tho floating markets for the full experience is in the early morning, around 5-6am. This is when the markets are most active and bustling with traders selling their fresh produce. It is also a great time to witness the sunrise over the river and see the vendors setting up their boats for the day’s trade.
8. Is bargaining acceptable at the market? If so, what is the general etiquette for bargaining?
Bargaining is usually acceptable at markets, especially in countries with a strong market culture, such as in many Asian and Middle Eastern countries. The general etiquette for bargaining includes starting with a lower offer than the asking price, and gradually increasing your offer while simultaneously indicating your genuine interest in purchasing the item. It is important to be respectful and polite during negotiations, and to avoid getting overly emotional or aggressive. It is also common to walk away from the deal if the seller is not willing to meet your desired price, as this may persuade them to lower their price. Ultimately, it is important to remember that bargaining should be a friendly interaction between buyer and seller, rather than an aggressive confrontation.9. Is there any accommodation available near the Can Tho Floating Markets for visitors who want to stay longer?
Yes, there are many options for accommodation near the Can Tho Floating Markets. Some popular choices include homestays on the riverside, boutique hotels, and luxury resorts. Some examples of nearby accommodations are Victoria Can Tho Resort, Nam Bo Boutique Hotel, Green Village Homestay Mekong, and Vinpearl Hotel Can Tho. It is recommended to book in advance during peak tourist seasons as these accommodations tend to fill up quickly.
10. Are there any cultural performances or traditions related to the Can Tho Floating Markets that visitors should be aware of?
Some cultural performances and traditions related to the Can Tho Floating Markets include:
1. Early morning boat rides: A common tradition at the Can Tho Floating Markets is for visitors to wake up early and hop on a local boat ride to witness the trading activities at sunrise. This allows visitors to get an authentic experience of the bustling market and observe the daily routines of local traders.
2. Traditional trading practices: Unlike modern supermarkets, the Can Tho Floating Markets are known for their traditional open-air trading practices where goods are exchanged using hand gestures and haggling techniques rather than fixed prices.
3. Songs and chants: The market sellers are often heard singing traditional songs or chanting catchy phrases in an attempt to attract customers to their boats. This adds a lively and vibrant atmosphere to the floating markets.
4. Local cuisine: Visitors can also find various types of food being sold on boats at the Can Tho Floating Markets, with some traders even cooking dishes right on their boats. It is a great opportunity to taste local delicacies such as hu tieu (noodle soup) or banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake).
5. Fruit-buying rituals: Some sellers have unique ways of displaying their fruits, such as arranging them in colorful patterns or stacks on their boats. Visitors can participate in this by pointing at specific fruits they want, with traders often asking for payment by showing fingers indicating numbers.
6. Sightseeing on sampans: Apart from traditional boats that sell goods, visitors can also take a ride on small sampans (traditional flat-bottomed boats) operated by locals as a way of exploring the numerous smaller canals branching off from the main river.
7. Photo ops with vendors: Vendors at the Can Tho Floating Markets are usually very friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to interact with them and take some memorable photos together.
8. Fish auctioning: At some of the floating markets, visitors can observe the process of fish auctioning, where buyers bid for their desired seafood before they are pulled onboard.
9. Offering prayers: It is a common sight to witness locals offering prayers and incense sticks to the river goddess or other deities at the floating markets before starting their day’s trading activities. Visitors can also participate in this tradition if they wish.
10. Traditional musical performances: Some guided tours of the Can Tho Floating Markets include traditional musical performances by local artists, adding to the cultural experience and making it an unforgettable visit for visitors.
11. How do traders on boats keep their produce fresh in such hot weather conditions?
There are several methods that traders on boats use to keep their produce fresh in hot weather conditions. Some of these methods include:
1. Refrigeration: Many modern boats are equipped with refrigeration units or coolers that allow traders to store their produce at lower temperatures, keeping it fresh for longer periods of time.
2. Ice: Boats often have ice chests or compartments where traders can store ice to keep their produce cool.
3. Shade: Traders may also cover their produce or place it in shaded areas of the boat to protect it from direct sunlight and reduce the risk of spoiling.
4. Insulation: Some traders use insulated containers or bags to pack their produce, which helps maintain a lower temperature and prevents heat from reaching the goods.
5. Saltwater baths: In some cases, traders may submerge certain types of produce, such as leafy greens or fruits, in saltwater baths to help preserve them.
6. Ventilation: Proper ventilation is important on boats to avoid trapping heat and moisture, which can cause produce to spoil faster. Traders may install fans or open windows and hatches to allow air circulation on board.
7. Timing: Traders may plan their trips carefully and aim for cooler times of day, such as early morning or evening, when temperatures are lower and there is less risk of produce spoiling.
Overall, the key is to keep produce cool and dry as much as possible while on the boat. This helps slow down the ripening process and extends the shelf life of the goods until they reach their destination.
12. Are there any safety concerns for visitors on boats at the crowded floating markets?
Yes, there are some potential safety concerns for visitors on boats at crowded floating markets. These include:
1. Overloading or capsizing: With so many boats and vendors in a small area, it’s possible for boats to become overloaded with goods or people, leading to a risk of capsizing.
2. Collisions: The narrow canals and busy market activity can make collisions between boats a common occurrence.
3. Slippery surfaces: Many of the boats and walkways at floating markets can be slippery due to water splashing onto them from passing boats or from wet produce.
4. Unstable footing: Some of the walkways on the boats may not be sturdy, so it’s important to be cautious when walking on them.
5. Heat exhaustion: Floating markets can get very hot and crowded, which may lead to heat exhaustion for visitors who are not prepared with proper clothing and hydration.
6. Potential scams or theft: With so many people in close proximity, there is a potential for pickpocketing or other scams from less-than-honest vendors.
To ensure your safety while visiting a crowded floating market, it is recommended to follow all safety instructions provided by your boat operator, avoid overloading the boat with too many people or goods, wear appropriate footwear with good grip, stay hydrated and alert for any suspicious activity.
13. How does transportation work around Can Tho Floating Markets? Do people mainly use boats or other means of transportation like cars or bikes?
Transportation around the Can Tho Floating Markets is mainly done by boats. The waterways and canals are the main arteries of transportation in this area, as they connect different parts of the market and neighboring communities. Boats are used for both commercial purposes, such as transporting goods and produce, as well as for personal transportation.
Other means of transportation, such as cars and bikes, are also used to a certain extent. Roads and bridges do exist in the area, allowing for some land-based transportation. However, due to the nature of the floating markets, boat transportation remains the primary means of getting around.
It is also worth noting that not all areas of the market may be accessible by boat. In some cases, vendors may need to use bikes or carts to transport their goods from their boats to their selling area within the market. Additionally, tourists may also have the option to take guided boat tours around the markets.
14. Do tourists need any special permits or licenses to visit and explore these floating markets by themselves or with a tour guide?
Special permits or licenses are not required for tourists to visit and explore the floating markets. However, visitors may be required to purchase tickets or pay entrance fees at some of the markets. Additionally, if you plan on taking a guided tour, you will need to book with a licensed tour company.
15. Is it possible to hire a private boat with a guide or driver for a more personalized experience at the Can Tho Floating Markets?
Yes, it is possible to hire a private boat with a guide or driver for a more personalized experience at the Can Tho Floating Markets. Many tour companies in Can Tho offer private boat tours that can be customized according to your preferences and interests. You can also arrange for a private boat and guide directly with local boat owners at the floating markets.
16. In addition to buying goods, what other activities can visitors partake in while at the Can Tho Floating Markets?
Visitors can also take a boat tour around the floating markets, sample local fruits and dishes, interact with locals and learn about their way of life, visit nearby villages and temples, take part in fishing activities, and watch traditional performances.
17. Are there any restaurants or food stalls serving local delicacies at or near the markets?
Yes, there are often restaurants and food stalls near the markets that serve local delicacies. This can vary based on the specific market, but some examples of local delicacies that may be available include dumplings, noodles dishes, various types of street food, and traditional desserts. It is also common to find food vendors selling fresh fruits or snacks at the markets.
18.Can visitors take part in fishing activities while visiting the Can Tho Floating Markets?
Yes, visitors can take part in fishing activities while visiting the Can Tho Floating Markets. Many tours and boat trips offer opportunities for visitors to fish with local fishermen or try their hand at catching their own food from the river. However, it is important to follow all safety regulations and guidelines set by the tour operator and to respect the local environment and culture while participating in these activities.
19.Can visitors purchase traditional handicrafts or souvenirs at the market?
Yes, visitors can purchase traditional handicrafts and souvenirs at the market. These items are often made by local artisans and serve as unique mementos of the visit to the market. Some common traditional handicrafts that can be found at markets include pottery, textiles, jewelry, and wood carvings. Visitors can also find a wide variety of souvenirs such as keychains, magnets, postcards, and t-shirts featuring images or symbols related to the local culture or attractions.
20. Are there any tips or recommendations for travelers visiting the Can Tho Floating Markets, such as what items to bring, proper attire, etc.?
1. Bring cash: The traders at the floating markets will mostly accept cash only, so make sure to bring enough Vietnamese Dong.
2. Wear sunscreen and hat: The sun can be intense on the river, so it’s important to protect yourself from sunburns. A hat will also help keep the sun out of your eyes.
3. Bring a camera: The Can Tho Floating Markets are a unique and colorful experience, so be sure to capture it with a camera or your phone.
4. Wear comfortable shoes: You may need to transfer between boats and walk on slippery surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting wet or dirty.
5. Keep valuables safe: It’s best not to bring any valuable items with you on the boat as there is a higher risk of them getting lost or damaged.
6. Dress appropriately: As the markets are predominantly visited by locals, it’s important to dress respectfully and cover up if visiting temples or religious sites nearby.
7. Don’t forget insect repellent: As you’ll be close to the water, bring mosquito repellent to protect yourself from bites.
8. Be respectful: Remember that you’re a guest in someone else’s home while visiting the floating markets, so be respectful of their way of life and customs.
9. Try local dishes: Many boats in the market sell fresh fruits and local delicacies for breakfast such as banh mi sandwiches and pho soup, so don’t miss out on trying these delicious treats.
10. Be mindful of boat traffic: With numerous boats navigating through narrow channels, pay attention to other boats around you for safety reasons.