Mouthwatering Mekong Markets

The Mekong Delta is a noodle-like network of rivers that feeds through south Vietnam. It is an iconic water way that is home to more than half of Vietnam’s rice production and fisheries, earning it the quirky nickname of Vietnam's Rice Bowl. A natural supermarket, it provides locals with everything they need. This makes it symbolic and vital to Vietnam and its unique food culture. The floating markets that sprinkle the delta have existed for hundreds of years, however they are now becoming a novelty that attracts many tourists that visit Vietnam. There are numerous floating markets across the Mekong Delta, from small traditional markets that only locals use to large network markets that are capitalising on tourism.

Photo by Harvey Enrile on Unsplash

Cai Be Market is a three-hour bus ride ($9) from Ho Chi Minh city and unlike most floating markets that open and close early, this market stays open longer to accommodate tourists from the old capital city. It may not be the most authentic visit as this market panders to tourists, however it does make it easier to navigate and find a traditional meal. Pull up a plastic chair and dig into some bun ca (fish noodle soup). The fried fish noodle soup is a breakfast staple across Vietnam but is best enjoyed when near the sea.
The Mekong Delta is a symbol of Vietnam as it represents the life source of the country. It has always been an agricultural asset and now it creates an income source from tourism.