BA RIA ON THE WEEKEND
BA RIA ON THE WEEKEND
Ba Ria- the peaceful city with little traffic and many interesting sites.
It is interesting to explore Ba Ria city on a weekend afternoon. Approximately 30 km from Vung Tau to the northeast. Catch a local bus( No. 4, No. 6 or No. 22) for a true experience that will give you unforgettable memories as the characteristic scenery of Vietnam slowly glides past your window. Our driver and his assistant were very friendly and helpful. We ended our bus journey at the bus station on Le Thanh Duy street, from there we went on foot to embrace the atmosphere of this quaint impressive Ba Ria City. Although Ba Ria is not as renowned for tourism as Vung Tau or Long Hai, Dat Do, Xuyen Moc,.., you will not be disappointed when exploring this charming city. We started exploring from one of the busiest places in Ba Ria- Ba Ria commercial center which includes Ba Ria Market and Hoa Hanh Shopping Centre Hanh Hoa. Ba Ria market is crowded with locals, traders and tourists. Renowned as being the focal centre of fresh seafood and dried seafood not to mention the fresh vegetables from Tan Thanh, Xuyen Moc, Long Dien. Most of these products eventually get to Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong etc. However here they are direct from the local fishermen and agriculturalists each day in Ba Ria markets. In the afternoon, vendors gather out of the market to sell all types of seafood such as fish, octopus, squid, clams, scallops, snails all very fresh and good quality. There are special types of dried seafood, a delicious fish sauce named Tri Hai, squid, fishes, shrimp and much more. Both morning or afternoon, Ba Ria market is always bustling with many buyers and sellers giving you an insight into a traditional markets of Vietnam. In contrast to the busy market, the three-building Hoa Hanh shopping centre is located on Ngo Gia Tu Street. The shopping centre was a crowded supermarket in earlier days however now there are only a handful of shops which still remain active and in a large area with courtyards providing a well earned break from the hustle and bustle. After chilling out for a while the shopping bug will return and there is a abundance of diverse items all at very reasonable prices. The colorful souvenir shops have countless types of wind chimes, bracelets, key-chains and some unexpected trinkets made from stones, shells and whatever else they have at their disposal, the friendly stall vendors always offer you a warm welcome and although English is a little limited the transactions are very simple and you are expected to bargain, a few local words and sign language / jesters makes each purchase a rewarding experience. We stayed here for some time just enjoying the atmosphere and listening to the sounds of the sea as a gentle breeze in the sunny afternoon rustled through wind chimes immersing you in some rare moments of peace amongst what seems a chaotic lifestyle. You also can purchase and bargain and will get feedback by cheerful smiles from sellers. The relaxed and comfortable atmosphere between buyers and sellers gives you an insight into the personality of the people from Southern Vietnam who are abundantly generous and hospitable.