Most nationalities need a visa for Vietnam. Check with the embassy; e-visa available for many countries.

What is the local currency?

Vietnamese đồng (VND). Cash is king; ATMs are scarce in Chợ Mới, so bring enough from Long Xuyên.

Is English widely spoken?

Very limited. Learn basic Vietnamese phrases or use a translation app.

Can I use credit cards?

Only at a few hotels and larger shops; most transactions are cash.

Try bánh xèo (crispy pancake), hủ tiếu (noodle soup), and fresh tropical fruits like durian and rambutan.

Yes, several local families offer homestays with meals and boat tours. Book via local agencies.

From Long Xuyên, take a bus (1 hour) or taxi (45 min). From Cần Thơ, it's about 2 hours by car.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No, always drink bottled or boiled water.

Chợ Mới

CityAn Giang, Vietnam

Chợ Mới is a CITY in An Giang, Vietnam.

Chợ Mới, a serene district in An Giang province, offers a genuine slice of Mekong Delta life away from tourist crowds. The name means 'new market', and its vibrant riverside market is the heart of local commerce, where you can sample tropical fruits, fresh river fish, and traditional bánh xèo. The landscape is a patchwork of emerald rice paddies, coconut groves, and winding canals. Visitors can explore the floating fish farms on the Hậu River, cycle through quiet village lanes, or visit the ancient Óc Eo archaeological sites nearby. The pace is slow, the people welcoming, and the sunsets over the water are unforgettable. It's an ideal destination for travellers seeking authentic rural Vietnamese culture, homestay experiences, and peaceful boat trips.

Best time to visit Chợ Mới

The best time is from November to April (dry season), when skies are clear and temperatures range 25-35°C. The coolest months are December and January. Avoid September-October (peak rainy season) when flooding can disrupt travel.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Overcast
Temperature: 25°
Feels like: 30°
Humidity: 95%
Wind: 10 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Wet, easing 24-31°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

End of rainy season

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

VCA

Cần Thơ International Airport

Domestic/International

80 km away

PQC

Phú Quốc International Airport

International

180 km away

Getting around

"The main transport is by motorbike (rental ~$10/day) or xe ôm (motorbike taxi). Local buses connect to Long Xuyên and Châu Đốc. For canal areas, hire a private boat (~$20-30 for half-day). Walking is fine in the market area. Grab (ride-hailing app) is available in nearby cities but limited here."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at most homestays and cafes in town

Local SIM

Local SIM (Viettel, Mobifone) available in Long Xuyên from $3

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Safe overall; watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.

Night safety

7/10

Safe overall; watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Chợ Mới is generally safe, with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in crowded markets; keep valuables secure. Motorbike traffic is chaotic but manageable; wear a helmet and drive defensively. Avoid walking alone on unlit rural roads at night. Scams targeting tourists are rare, but always agree on taxi fares beforehand."

Police

113

Ambulance

115

Fire

114

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines (hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus) are recommended. Drink only bottled or boiled water. Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever are present; use repellent and sleep under nets. Local clinics can handle minor issues; for serious cases, head to Long Xuyên or Châu Đốc hospitals. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is advised."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when visiting pagodas (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering homes or temples. Always use both hands when giving or receiving items. Avoid touching someone's head. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Smile and greet with 'Chào'."

Vietnamese (official)EnglishFrenchChineseKhmerVietnamese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$2-4 | a local meal costs $2-4

Hotels

$15-30 | budget homestay or guesthouse $15-30/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Very affordable destination; bargaining expected at markets.

Timezone

Asia/Ho_Chi_Minh
Local time 22:20

More facts

Population

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Cho Moi, Chợ Mới, Huyện Chợ Mới, Chợ Mới District, Distretto di Cho Moi, 쯔므이현, چؤ موئی ضلع, 𢄂买县, 𢄂買縣

Major HubRuralCulturalRiverFamily-FriendlyOff-the-Beaten-Path