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 .