Phong Dien and other well-known floating markets in the Mekong Delta region of Can Tho Province have become busy in the days leading up to Tet.
Sales on the water
Traders often hang their samples on poles in front of their boats to attract customers. Floating markets are not only attractive to tourists because of the diversity of fresh goods, but also because transactions are carried out on boats.
The market is usually open from 5am to 8am, with women wearing traditional bright garb. But as the holiday arrives the market has been opening earlier and prices of some products go down.
Hanh Nguyen, a local in Can Tho City, said that even though she has lived in the area for a long time she still enjoys visiting the market during the holiday season to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
The managers of nearby Cai Rang floating market said that the market receives about 2,000 boats each day, carrying a wide variety of fruits and foods.
Cai Rang, along with Phong Dien and Nga Bay now form a 'triangle floating markets' in the Mekong Delta region, which has become a popular tourist attraction.
The boisterous atmosphere of the Phong Dien Market
Fresh fruits add colour to the markets
Tourists visiting the floating markets