Long Xuyen Floating Market stands out compared to smaller markets like Cho May Nui Cam, as it is a specialized trading center for agricultural produce in the region. Visitors are greeted with a peaceful scene of Long Xuyen floating village, located close to the city center. Unlike the bustling atmosphere found at larger floating markets like Cai Rang or Nga Bay, Long Xuyen exudes a gentle and serene beauty. The highlight here is the sight of boats and canoes of all sizes moored side by side on the water, accompanied by the cheerful and hearty laughter of the local people echoing along the river.
Trading activities at the floating market are conducted swiftly yet harmoniously, reflecting the sincere and rustic nature of the people of the Mekong Delta. Buyers are leisurely in their approach, while sellers are enthusiastic and polite. Notably, at Long Xuyen Floating Market, sellers often stick to their quoted prices, and haggling is less common than in other places. This unique cultural trait is a delightful discovery for visitors, setting the market apart from other regional markets.
One of the distinctive features of floating markets is the iconic “cay beo,” a long wooden pole used by sellers to display the goods they are trading. This innovative advertising method is incredibly effective, as buyers can easily identify the products sold on a boat without asking. The colorful “cay beo” adorned with various goods, such as vegetables, fruits, and household items, has become a familiar symbol of floating markets in the Mekong Delta, including Long Xuyen.
Although Long Xuyen Floating Market was once a bustling hub of commerce, today it has become less crowded. Despite being the second-largest floating market in the Mekong Delta, after Cai Rang, it is now quieter. Visitors will rarely find boats selling food or local specialties. This change is mainly due to the development of road transportation. Nowadays, people prefer using trucks and three-wheeled vehicles for cargo transportation, as it is faster and more cost-effective than traveling by boat.
Compared to eight years ago, the number of tourists visiting the market has increased. However, the population of residents living and trading in the floating market has decreased. Many visitors share that they hardly feel the atmosphere of a bustling market; instead, they encounter sparsely moored boats and glimpses of the daily life of the riverine people.
During peak seasons, especially during the fruit season or the Tet holiday, Long Xuyen Floating Market regains some of its vibrancy. However, the once-lively trading activities from the early morning have significantly reduced. The most familiar sight remains the large boats moored in the middle of the river, trading fruits and agricultural produce with traders from the onshore market.
Nevertheless, large cargo boats carrying goods and construction materials still frequent the area, preserving a hint of traditional trading activities. To cater to the needs of water transport vehicles, locals on both sides of the river have set up floating gas stations on rafts. This scenario has become a distinctive feature of riverside areas in the Mekong Delta, showcasing the adaptability of the locals to riverine life.
Besides commercial activities, there are also small houseboats scattered along the banks of the Long Xuyen Floating Market. According to a long-time boat rower, many families cannot afford to own land and choose to build their homes on rafts, embracing a life of floating uncertainty. Despite the challenges and instability, this unique way of life has shaped a special culture among the people of the Mekong Delta.
In essence, Long Xuyen Floating Market is not just a place for trading goods but also a fascinating cultural intersection. Even though it has lost its former bustling vibe, the floating market remains an integral part of the lives of the riverine people of An Giang. A visit to Long Xuyen Floating Market offers travelers a chance to experience the tranquility, sincerity, and rustic beauty of the Mekong Delta—a simple yet unforgettable charm.
It is hoped that in the future, Long Xuyen Floating Market will be preserved and further developed, not only as a trading hub but also as an attractive tourist destination. This will contribute to the conservation and promotion of the unique cultural values of the Mekong Delta region.
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