Discover the Serenity of Vinh Long: A Journey Through Riverside Gardens and Customary craft Villages
Vinh Long, a gem in the Mekong Delta, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Visitors can embark on a boat journey down two rivers, exploring riverside gardens and traditional craft villages that are rarely found elsewhere. This experience is a testament to the region’s commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation,as highlighted in [[1]].
On the Tien River side lies Minh Island, also known as Binh Island. Spanning over 60km² and divided by the Co Chien and Co Chien rivers, this island includes four communes: An Binh, Hoa Ninh, Dong Phu, and Binh hoa Phuoc. Every year, millions of domestic and foreign tourists flock here to relax and immerse themselves in the tranquil countryside.
In An Binh island, rivers and canals weave through lush landscapes.Rambutan gardens are ripe and red, while longan gardens are filled with cool green fruits. Tourists can be rowed in sampans by islanders through canals shaded by willow trees or nipa palm groves. The sound of rowing on the water accompanies the sight of rambutan gardens and mature red plum gardens spread on both banks.Cycling around the shady roads of the city, breathing in the fresh air from the gardens and rivers, is equally pleasant. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful, quiet countryside of the “Southland.” God has blessed Binh island with healthy trees and sweet fruits in all four seasons. The people of An Binh island have creatively transformed rivers and orchards into tourist spots and accommodations, inviting visitors to relax and unwind.
At night, visitors can gaze at the clear moonlit night by the peaceful and poetic Co Chien river, listening to the cock crowing in the serene countryside.Currently, Vinh Long boasts more than 40 tourist spots, with nearly 30 residences, and An Binh island accounts for more than half of them.This destination attracts the largest number of tourists in the Vinh Long area.
Not just a recent phenomenon,Binh Island has been a pioneer in riverside tourism for 30 years. It was present on the world tourism map and recognized by leading guidebooks as a premier destination. At that time,An Binh was a famous water garden destination in the Mekong Delta,with tourist gardens like Sau Giao,Tam Ho,Muoi Huong,and the old house of Cai Cuong.
Over time, generations of descendants of the old farmers have followed in thier ancestors’ footsteps, investing human and financial resources to develop tourism on Binh Island systematically. In the past, tourists often came to visit gardens, taste fruits, and see ornamental plants. Today, it is very easy for tourists to reach An Binh island by boat, with hundreds of large and small boats serving visitors.
Tourists can visit and enjoy orchards, eat rambutan “belly” (until the stomach is full), participate in village sweet-making, or dig into ditches to catch fish. They can prepare fish cooking, experience the making of country cakes, and light torches to see the opera of Dong Thinh classical opera troupe. This troupe, led by bau Rang – Huynh Van Rang, has experienced more than 100 ups and downs and was invited to perform at America, making a splash for Vietnamese opera at the 2007 Smithsonian Festival.
The Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism in Vinh Long province emphasizes the potential of tourism on Tien and Hau River islands, including An binh Island, May Island, Tra On district, and Dai Island, Vung Liem district. The attraction here is the natural landscape and rural character, which continues to draw visitors from around the world.
Key Highlights of Vinh Long Tourism
| Feature | Description |
| ————- | ————- |
| riverside Gardens | Explore lush rambutan and longan gardens along the Co Chien River.|
| Traditional Craft Villages | Participate in hands-on experiences like sweet-making and fish-catching. |
| Cultural Performances | Enjoy classical opera performances by Dong Thinh troupe. |
| eco-Tourism | Experience lasting tourism practices that benefit local communities. |
Vinh Long is not just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re rowing through canals, cycling through shady roads, or enjoying a moonlit night by the river, this region offers a serene escape from the hustle of modern life. Plan your visit to Vinh Long and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Mekong Delta.
For more insights into Vinh Long’s eco-tourism initiatives,visit [[1]]. To explore the top must-experience places in Vinh Long, check out [[2]]. For additional tourist information,refer to [[3]].Vinh Long, nestled between the tien and Hau rivers, is emerging as a captivating destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. The region’s unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local specialties has recently caught the attention of international visitors and domestic tourists alike.
A recent famtrip delegation from Hanoi, comprising over 20 travel businesses, explored Vinh Long’s lush gardens, dug fish ditches, and cruised along the Tien River. One travel business leader remarked, “It was the trip to explore Vinh Long felt really good. These are the 5 Roi grapefruit garden, river trips and fishing ditches, visits to fruit gardens and local specialties on the island that are very attractive to Hanoi tourists.” The delegation is now planning a 3-day,2-night weekend tour from Hanoi to Can Tho and Vinh Long,hoping to collaborate with local businesses to bring more tourists to the region.
While the Tien River side has already established a strong tourism presence, the Hau River side remains a largely untapped treasure. It boasts attractions like the 5 Roi grapefruit garden, Binh Tan sweet potato specialty, Binh Minh corn, Thanh Tra, Tra Air floating market, and May Island rice paper. However, these potential gems lack investment in tourism products or destinations.
tourists are particularly drawn to the rambutan gardens on An Binh island, a highlight of Vinh Long’s agricultural charm. Experts and travel agencies have proposed building “Vinh Long – Destination 2 Rivers,” a unique product for the Mekong Delta.Ms. Phan Yen Ly, Head of tourism Industry Product Development Department in Ho Chi Minh City, shared, “Vinh Long has unique products compared to the Mekong Delta region, so we save Vinh Long raised the product ‘Deep Mekong’ with its deeper Mekong region.”
Vinh Long’s strategic location between the Tien and Hau rivers offers a distinctive advantage. As Ms. Phan Yen Ly noted, ”Vinh Long is located between Tien and Hau rivers, how can Vinh Long build a product to show that Can Tho only has Hau river, what exactly Ben Tre and My Tho have at Tien river. Many places in the world only need one such intersection or specific point to create a travel route. Vinh Long features that other cities and provinces do not have.”
To summarize Vinh Long’s tourism potential,here’s a table highlighting its key attractions and untapped opportunities:
| Key Attractions | Untapped Opportunities |
|———————-|—————————-|
| 5 Roi grapefruit garden | Binh Tan sweet potato specialty |
| Tien River cruises | Binh minh corn |
| Fishing ditches | Thanh Tra |
| Rambutan gardens | Tra Air floating market |
| Local fruit specialties | May Island rice paper |
Vinh Long’s tourism development is poised to take a importent leap,blending its natural assets with strategic investments.The region’s dual-river identity and unique local products offer a compelling narrative for travelers seeking deeper connections with Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. As tourism businesses and local stakeholders collaborate, Vinh Long is set to become a must-visit destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Discover the Serenity of Vinh Long: A Journey Through Riverside Gardens and Customary Craft Villages
vinh Long, a gem in the Mekong Delta, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Visitors can embark on a boat journey down two rivers,exploring riverside gardens and traditional craft villages that are rarely found elsewhere. This experience is a testament to the region’s commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation.
We sat down with Dr. Nguyen Minh Tran, a renowned expert on Mekong Delta tourism and cultural heritage, to delve deeper into Vinh Long’s growing appeal as a must-visit destination for eco-tourism enthusiasts.
The Dual-River Identity: A Gateway to Natural Beauty
Senior Editor: Dr.Tran, you’ve highlighted the dual-river identity of Vinh Long as a key feature. What makes this unique?
Dr. Nguyen Minh Tran: The Tien and Hau rivers are not just waterways; they are the lifeblood of Vinh Long. They connect the community, sustain agriculture, and offer unparalleled scenic beauty. The boat journeys along these rivers allow visitors to immerse themselves in lush landscapes, from rambutan gardens to longan orchards.It’s a serene escape from urban hustle.
Senior Editor: How does this dual-river system influence tourism development?
Dr. Nguyen Minh tran: The rivers shape the tourism narrative hear. They enable unique experiences like cycling through shady roads, rowing through canals, and enjoying moonlit nights by the river. this natural infrastructure has been creatively utilized by locals to develop tourist spots and accommodations, blending sustainability with visitor comfort.
Traditional Craft Villages: Hands-On Cultural Experiences
Senior Editor: Vinh Long’s craft villages are gaining attention. What experiences can visitors expect here?
Dr. Nguyen Minh Tran: Visitors can dive into hands-on activities that are deeply rooted in local culture—sweet-making, fish-catching, and even preparing traditional dishes. These experiences not only entertain but also educate tourists about the Mekong delta’s way of life.
Senior Editor: How have these villages evolved to cater to modern tourism?
Dr. Nguyen Minh Tran: Over the years, descendants of the old farmers have invested resources to systematically develop tourism here.what started as simple garden visits has transformed into a well-organized system with hundreds of boats serving visitors. It’s a blend of tradition and modern convenience.
Cultural Performances: Operas That Tell a Story
Senior Editor: You mentioned the Dong thinh classical opera troupe.How does this add to Vinh Long’s cultural appeal?
Dr. Nguyen Minh Tran: The Dong Thinh troupe is a cultural treasure.Their performances, especially under torch-lit nights, are mesmerizing. They’ve even performed internationally, bringing Vietnamese opera to global stages. For visitors, it’s a chance to witness the region’s artistic heritage.
Senior Editor: How do these performances contribute to tourism?
Dr.Nguyen minh Tran: They enrich the visitor experience by adding a layer of cultural immersion. Tourists don’t just see the beauty of Vinh long; they feel its soul through music and storytelling.
Eco-tourism: A Enduring Future
Senior Editor: Vinh Long is often described as an eco-tourism hub. What makes it ideal for sustainable tourism?
Dr. Nguyen Minh Tran: The region’s tourism practices are deeply tied to its natural assets. From river journeys to orchard visits, everything is designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing visitor engagement. This approach benefits both tourists and local communities.
Senior Editor: What’s next for Vinh Long in terms of tourism development?
Dr. Nguyen Minh tran: The focus is on enhancing infrastructure without compromising sustainability. Plans include expanding eco-amiable accommodations, promoting traditional crafts, and increasing cultural performances. The goal is to make Vinh Long a global benchmark for responsible tourism.
experience Vinh Long: A Must-Visit Destination
Senior Editor: For someone planning a visit, what would you recommend?
Dr. nguyen Minh Tran: Start with a boat journey along the tien or hau rivers. Visit the rambutan gardens, participate in craft-making, and end the day with a classical opera performance. It’s an itinerary that offers both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. tran, for sharing these insights.Vinh Long’s blend of natural beauty and cultural richness is truly captivating.
dr. Nguyen Minh Tran: My pleasure. I hope this conversation inspires more travelers to explore Vinh Long and experience its unique charm.
For more insights into Vinh Long’s eco-tourism initiatives, visit [[1]]. To explore the top must-experience places in Vinh Long, check out [[2]].For additional tourist details, refer to [[3]].
