My Tho, a charming city situated in the Mekong Delta region of Southern Vietnam, is a captivating gateway to the water world of the Mekong River. As the capital of Tien Giang Province, My Tho is renowned for its picturesque waterways, lush fruit orchards, and a rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture. Visitors to My Tho can embark on boat tours along the Mekong River, exploring intricate networks of canals and islands adorned with tropical vegetation. The city is also celebrated for its delectable cuisine, particularly the fresh and flavorful Mekong Delta fruits, coconut candies, and other local delicacies. My Tho’s vibrant markets, historic pagodas, and serene countryside provide a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Mekong Delta, making it a delightful destination for those seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience.

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About My Tho city

My Tho City, a prominent Grade I urban area within Tien Giang province, is situated in the southeastern region of Vietnam. Encompassing an area of 82.24 square kilometers, the city is strategically located with Cho Gao district to the east and north, the Tien River and Ben Tre province to the south, and Chau Thanh district to the west. My Tho City is home to 17 basic administrative units, including 11 wards and 6 communes, with a population of 229,721 people representing four main ethnic groups: Kinh, Chinese, Indian, and Khmer. The city is a melting pot of cultures and religions, with Catholicism, Protestantism, Buddhism, and Cao Dai being the prominent faiths.

The city’s connectivity is a key asset, as the Tien River and National Highway 1 traverse My Tho, and National Highway 50 leads to Go Cong districts. Additionally, provincial road 864 runs along the Tien River to Cai Lay and Cai Be, while National Highway 60 and the Rach Mieu Bridge connect My Tho City with Ben Tre province. The city boasts an extensive network of 75 routes, including 68 inner city routes, facilitating easy travel by waterway or roadway to Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta provinces, the sea, or the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh.

My Tho’s distinctive geographical features include the Bao Dinh Canal, which divides the city into left and right banks. Orchards in the city’s communes create a verdant belt around the inner city, contributing to a unique and picturesque landscape. At the heart of the inner city lies My Tho Lake, originally dug in 1927 and now known as Tet Mau Than Park. This green oasis not only regulates the city’s temperature but also serves as its lungs, providing a serene retreat for residents and visitors alike.

Throughout its history, My Tho City has remained the political, economic, and cultural hub of Tien Giang province. It has also served as a pivotal exchange center for the Central South region, once holding the distinction of being the central capital of the Central South. Today, My Tho acts as a bridge connecting the Mekong Delta provinces, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Southeast region, playing a vital role in the development and cohesion of the area.

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Travel Tips for My Tho City in the Mekong Delta

1. Explore the Mekong River: My Tho is all about the Mekong Delta’s waterways. Take a boat tour to fully experience the picturesque canals, islands, and floating markets. Negotiate prices with local boat operators, and consider joining group tours to make it more budget-friendly.
2. Taste Local Cuisine: My Tho is famous for its unique Mekong Delta cuisine. Savor fresh fruit, coconut candies, and local dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to try “hu tieu My Tho,” a popular noodle soup.
3. Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda: This beautiful and historic Buddhist pagoda is a must-visit attraction. Respect local customs by wearing modest clothing when entering religious sites.
4. Bargain at Markets: My Tho’s markets are vibrant and lively. If you plan to shop for souvenirs or local products, remember to haggle to get the best deals. It’s part of the local market culture.
5. Choose a Homestay Experience: To immerse yourself in the local way of life, consider staying in a homestay. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with Mekong Delta residents and understand their daily routines.
6. Pack Light and Comfortable Clothing: My Tho’s climate is tropical, so wear lightweight, breathable clothing. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
7. Learn Some Basic Vietnamese Phrases: While you can get by with English in tourist areas, locals appreciate when visitors attempt a few Vietnamese phrases. It enhances your travel experience and interactions.
8. Respect the Environment: My Tho’s natural beauty is its main attraction. Ensure that your visit doesn’t harm the environment. Avoid littering and support eco-friendly activities.
9. Travel Responsibly: Be mindful of the impact of your visit. Consider eco-tours that support the local community and sustainable practices.
10. Stay Hydrated: The Mekong Delta can be hot and humid. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your explorations.
11. Currency: It’s advisable to have some Vietnamese dong on hand for small purchases and transactions, as not all places may accept credit cards.
12. Local Transportation: My Tho is a compact city, and you can easily explore it on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and motorbike taxis (xe om) are also readily available.

Visiting My Tho offers a chance to witness the authentic charm of the Mekong Delta and the warmth of its people. By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your journey and create lasting memories in this unique part of Vietnam.

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Main tourist routes to My Tho city

From Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho

The journey from Ho Chi Minh City/ HCMC to My Tho city is a popular day trip for both tourists and locals. Here’s how to get there:

1. By Bus: You can catch a bus from Ho Chi Minh City’s Mien Tay Bus Station (Western Bus Station). The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a convenient option. Buses to My Tho run regularly throughout the day.
2. By private car: The most common route is taking National Highway 1 (Q1) from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho. The distance is approximately 70 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Start by renting a private car with a driver. You can book one through a car rental agency or online services. Make sure to confirm the pick-up location and time with the rental company.
3. By Motorbike: If you’re feeling adventurous and have experience riding a motorbike, you can rent one in Ho Chi Minh City and make the journey to My Tho. The route is relatively straightforward, and you’ll enjoy the scenic drive.
4. By Organized Tour: Many tour operators in Ho Chi Minh City offer day tours to My Tho. These tours often include transportation, a boat ride on the Mekong River, visits to local attractions, and meals.

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From Can Tho to My Tho

Traveling from Can Tho to My Tho is also a common route in the Mekong Delta. Here’s how to do it:

1. By Bus: You can take a bus from Can Tho to My Tho, which usually takes around 2 to 3 hours. The bus stations in both cities are well-connected, and there are frequent departures.
2. By private car: The most common route is taking National Highway 1A (QL1A) from Can Tho city to My Tho. The distance is approximately 65 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Start by renting a private car with a driver. You can arrange this through a car rental agency or online booking services. Confirm the pick-up location, date, and time with the rental company.
3. By Boat: Another unique way to make this journey is by boat. There are speedboats and ferries that operate on the Mekong River. The boat ride offers a different perspective of the delta’s waterways and can be a memorable experience.
4. By Organized Tour: Similar to Ho Chi Minh City, you can find tour operators in Can Tho that offer day tours to My Tho. These tours provide a hassle-free way to explore the region.

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These routes provide travelers with various options for reaching My Tho, allowing you to choose the one that suits your preferences and schedule. Whether you’re starting from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho, My Tho offers a glimpse into the beauty and culture of the Mekong Delta.