Long An | Vietnam

Long An is a province located in the Mekong Delta region of southern Vietnam. It shares borders with Ho Chi Minh City to the east, Tien Giang to the southeast, Dong Thap and Tien Giang to the north, and Tien Giang River to the south. Long An is known for its agricultural richness, river systems, and proximity to the bustling metropolitan area of Ho Chi Minh City. While not as heavily touristic as some other regions in Vietnam, Long An offers a tranquil escape with its scenic landscapes, traditional rural life, and vibrant cultural heritage.

Geography and Natural Features

Long An is characterized by its flat, low-lying terrain, with most of the province being part of the Mekong Delta, the agricultural heartland of Vietnam. The province is crisscrossed by a network of rivers and canals, which play an important role in the local economy, primarily in transportation and irrigation for farming.

• Rivers and Waterways: The Vam Co River is the most significant river in Long An, with several branches running through the province. These rivers not only provide essential irrigation for crops but also offer scenic spots for boat tours, fishing, and other water-based activities.
• Agricultural Land: Long An is an important agricultural region in Vietnam. The fertile soil in the area is well-suited for rice cultivation, as well as the production of vegetables, fruits, aquatic products, and livestock. The province's agriculture is highly integrated with the surrounding Mekong Delta.

Main Attractions and Things to Do

While Long An is less visited by international tourists compared to other regions in Vietnam, it offers several unique attractions that focus on nature, culture, and local experiences.

1. Vam Co River and Boat Tours

• The Vam Co River is one of the most prominent features in Long An. It flows through the province and is a major source of life for the local communities. Boat tours along the river are popular, as they allow visitors to explore the traditional riverside life, visit floating markets, and see how local people live and work along the riverbanks.
• The Canal tours are also available and give tourists the opportunity to explore the local waterway systems that connect various rural villages.

2. Dong Thap Muoi (Plain of Reeds)

• Long An is part of the Dong Thap Muoi, also known as the Plain of Reeds, which is a vast wetland area. This region is home to many species of wildlife and birds. It is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers, especially during the dry season (December to April), when migratory birds arrive in large numbers.
• The Dong Thap Muoi Wetland is also a significant ecological area, and visitors can enjoy eco-tours to explore its marshes, canals, and vibrant ecosystems.

3. Tan An Town

• The capital city of Long An, Tan An, is a pleasant town with traditional architecture, local markets, and a slower pace of life compared to Ho Chi Minh City. It provides visitors with a taste of local culture, along with a good base for exploring the province’s natural attractions.
• Tan An Market is a bustling market where locals trade fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and pick up some souvenirs.

4. Historical and Cultural Sites

• Long An Museum: The Long An Museum in Tan An town offers insights into the province’s history and culture. It showcases artifacts and exhibitions on the region's resistance history, revolutionary heritage, and cultural evolution.
• Tay Son Historical Site: This is a historic area located in Tan An, connected with the Tay Son Rebellion. The region is important to Vietnam’s history as it was the site of uprisings during the Nguyen Dynasty in the late 18th century.
• Religious Temples and Pagodas: There are several pagodas and temples in Long An that are worth visiting, such as the Vinh Trang Pagoda in Tan An, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful architecture.

5. Local Villages and Traditional Farming

• Long An is home to agricultural villages, where visitors can observe traditional farming methods, such as rice cultivation, fish farming, and vegetable growing. Some farmers also engage in traditional crafts, such as basket weaving and wood carving.
• Visitors can enjoy a homestay experience in local villages, where they can participate in daily activities, learn about local agriculture, and taste traditional Mekong Delta cuisine.

6. Famous Local Products

• Long An is known for producing high-quality rice, particularly jasmine rice. The fertile land of the province is ideal for rice production, and visitors can see expansive rice paddies as they travel through the area.
• Long An also produces a variety of fruits, such as longan, mango, coconut, and dragon fruit, which are available in local markets.
• Fish and shrimp farming are also prominent in the province. Visitors may enjoy fresh seafood dishes in local restaurants, including specialties like grilled shrimp, fried fish, and river crab.

7. The Mekong River Delta

• While Long An is not directly on the Mekong River, it is part of the Mekong Delta region, which is known for its unique riverine lifestyle and ecosystems. The broader Delta offers opportunities for visitors to take boat rides through the maze of rivers and canals, explore floating markets, and visit traditional villages.
• Cai Be Floating Market, a short distance from Long An, is one of the most popular floating markets in the Delta and a great spot to see the river trading culture in action.

How to Get to Long An

• By Car or Motorbike: Long An is easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City, which is about 50 kilometers away. You can take National Route 1A or the Nguyen Van Linh Expressway to reach the province in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
• By Bus: There are several buses running between Ho Chi Minh City and Long An. Bus stations in Ho Chi Minh City, such as the Mien Tay Bus Station, offer services to Long An.
• By Boat: Given its proximity to the river systems, it is also possible to reach Long An by boat, especially for those looking to explore the Mekong Delta by water.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Long An is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities like boat tours and exploring the wetlands. The rainy season (May to October) can make travel more difficult, particularly for water-based activities, but it’s also when the countryside is lush and green, and the rice fields are most vibrant.

Accommodation in Long An

Accommodation in Long An is relatively simple, with guesthouses, small hotels, and homestays offering options for tourists. In Tan An, visitors will find a few hotels and guesthouses that provide basic services. For a more rustic experience, homestays in rural villages give you the chance to enjoy authentic local life and immerse yourself in the culture of the Mekong Delta.

Conclusion

Long An is a peaceful and lesser-known part of southern Vietnam, offering a blend of natural beauty, rural life, and rich culture. Whether you're exploring the network of rivers, visiting local villages, or experiencing the Mekong Delta's agricultural landscape, Long An provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. It’s an excellent destination for those looking to experience traditional Vietnamese life, nature, and the vibrant ecosystems of the Mekong Delta.