Can Tho

There are many fascinating things to see and do in Can Tho. Not suprisingly, many of them revolve around the rivers and canals, and the various activities that take place upon them. The markets, particularly the Vietnam floating markets, are a key attraction, but there are also various interesting gardens to visit, plus "green tours" in Can Tho available in the nearby countryside.

Markets are the main attraction of Can Tho, with both land and water markets on offer. Indeed, the waterways are the lifeblood of the city, and also make a great way to get around. "Green Can Tho tours" are a special feature, with various tour agencies offering trips into the nearby countryside. The delicate cuisine of Can Tho is also a favourite, and this, combined with the renowned friendliness of the people, ensures you will have an enjoyable and memorable time in Can Tho.

The famous Cai Rang Floating Markets are a must see during your stay in Can Tho. They are located approximately 6 kilometres from Can Tho on the Mekong river. It is one of the largest floating markets on the Mekong River. It provides a fascinating insight into the culture of Can Tho. A great way to see them is on a tour in Can Tho. Boats gather to sell their various products and local specialities from around the region, especially fruit. On each boat contains an upright pole on which they hang various samples of their fare for potential buyers to check out. Amoungst the sellers weave a number of other boats selling drinks for the thirsty visitors.

Situated 170 kilometres southwest of Saigon, on the banks of the Hau River, Can Tho Province is in the heart of one of the world's major rice growing regions. In fact, it contributes more than half of all of Vietnam's rice per annum. The yearly floods of the river contribute to this by depositing large quantities of alluvia on the rice fields. It is also known as a fruit basket, producing a seemingly endless variety of tasty and often exotic fruits and vegetables.

Can Tho has been the main town in the province for over 200 years, and was previously known as Tay Do, which translates to Capital in the West. The city has a population of over 150,000 people, and it is located along the main Con Son and Con Au waterways. Known as 'the green lungs of the Mekong', there are miles of inter-connected canals and rivers in the region. Can Tho is the Mekong Delta’s most important centre of culture, economics, science and technology. It has an airport, a large freshwater port and two industrial parks. With its stable infrastructure and Can Tho hotels, the city has become a magnet in recent times for foreign investment. Can Tho also has over 2,000 students in the fields of education, agriculture and medicine at Can Tho University, with its well-known College of Agriculture, and Cuulong Delta Rice Research Institute.

The bustling Ninh Kieu Quay (Ben Ninh Kieu) is the city's major trading centre. The nearby Can Tho port is able to handle ships up to 5,000 tons in size. Additionally, the city features Can Tho Market, which is the largest market in the western region of the Mekong Delta. A popular attraction of the riverside market is the attached floating restaurant, which is situated on the Hau River. Diners have the luxury of enjoying one of the regional specialties, whilst watching the passing parade of boats of all shapes and sizes.

Whilst on your Can Tho holiday, make sure you visit some other nearby Vietnamese destinations such as Saigon, Phu Quoc, and Chau Doc.