Long Xuyen floating market is still waiting for customers.

Gone are the days of bustling boats and canoes; the Long Xuyên floating market is now deserted, which makes me feel down.

The tranquil river

While the sun was still half-asleep, the Hau River at Long Xuyen floating market was already awake. At 5:30 a.m., the small boat gently rocked, taking us away from the dock and into the rhythm of the floating market. Mr. Nguyen Van Lanh (53 years old), a resident of My Hoa Hung commune, showed a pensive expression on his weathered face: "It's a bit late to go now. Back then, by 4 a.m., the boats were already bustling, traders from all over coming to exchange and buy goods in a lively atmosphere!" Mr. Lanh's voice echoed, somber amidst the sound of waves lapping against the boat.

A moment of silence passed. Uncle Lanh's eyes gazed into the distance, as if searching for the golden memories of a bustling Long Xuyen floating market. Now, the trading is sparse, and the number of buyers and sellers has dwindled considerably. The floating market – a market of once-lively times – seems to exist only in memories. The income of those who depend on this waterway has also decreased significantly, reflecting the slower pace of life on the river.

Life on the Long Xuyen floating market. Photo: SONG MINH

Uncle Lanh said he has been connected to this floating market since he was a young boy. “In the old days, this floating market had an abundance of goods, from fruits and vegetables to household items. The sounds of vendors hawking their wares, engines, and laughter filled the air from dawn,” Uncle Lanh shared. However, change is inevitable, and for the people here, the emptiness of the Long Xuyen floating market is not surprising. With the country's development and improved roads, trade on land has become more convenient than ever. Small traders have abandoned their boats and moved ashore to conduct business more quickly.

Uncle Lanh's friends, who once lived by the river, have now found a new life on land. The lives of the people have improved; they have more choices in work and life. But for those who witnessed and were connected to the floating market, this change still leaves a touch of nostalgia.

The deserted dock awaits travelers.

Although the market is less crowded now, its unique features and distinctive culture remain. Visitors from afar still come to explore, admire the picturesque river scenery, and experience the genuine, simple nature of the people of the Mekong Delta. “This is my second time visiting Long Xuyen floating market. I know it’s not as bustling as it used to be, but I still wanted to come and experience it. The feeling of sitting on a boat, bobbing along with the water, admiring the peaceful scenery on both banks, and especially having breakfast right on the river, is truly wonderful,” shared Mr. Nguyen Minh Hien, a resident of An Chau commune.

Then, Mr. Hien excitedly recounted the story of the stir-fried pork noodle soup he once enjoyed on a small boat at the floating market. “The dipping sauce was rich and flavorful, the marinated pork was fragrant and stimulating to the taste buds. And it only cost 20,000 VND per bowl – incredibly cheap for such a fun breakfast experience on the river! Not to mention, the coffee on the river was also excellent. A cup of black coffee cost 10,000 VND, but the taste was unforgettable,” Mr. Hien said. The experience of having breakfast and coffee on the river remains an irresistible attraction. Even with only a few boats left, the flavors of noodle soup, rice noodle soup, or iced coffee are still rich and delicious.

For over 30 years, Ms. Nguyen Thi Vang, residing in Long Xuyen ward, has been closely associated with the river market, her small water stall becoming an integral part of the floating market. Ms. Vang believes that trading on the river demands speed. "Seeing customers from afar, almost instinctively, I have to quickly steer my boat close to theirs. As soon as a customer orders, I have to prepare the food immediately so they can continue their sightseeing journey," Ms. Vang said.

Every day, the income of a few hundred thousand dong used to help Ms. Vang make a decent living. But now, the market is deserted, and the number of tourists has decreased significantly. Ms. Vang's voice held a hint of sadness: "Now, around 9 a.m., I have to go ashore to find another place to sell, because staying at the floating market no longer provides a stable income."

With the potential for development of river tourism, it is hoped that in the not too distant future, Long Xuyen floating market will once again become an attractive destination, drawing tourists not only to explore the riverine culture but also to experience genuine, simple emotions.

SONG MINH

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/cho-noi-long-xuyen-van-doi-nguoi-a461193.html