Vietnam & The Lost City of Angkor-Oct19
After spending the morning exploring the Hue Citadel and cruising on the Perfume River, we took our coach to Dong Ba market – the oldest market in all of Vietnam. Dong Ba is a huge labyrinth of stalls and narrow passageways. Food smells everywhere, with large bubbling pots of this, and huge piles of that. All of it was undercover, so it had a real “Aladdins Cave” bazaar atmosphere.
Nestled in the heart of Hue, Dong Ba Market stands as a vibrant testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and bustling trade scene. Dating back to the 19th century, this iconic market is not just a place to shop, it’s a sensory feast that immerses visitors in the sights, sounds and flavours of Hue.
As we navigated our way through the bustling alleyways of Dong Ba Market, we encountered a kaleidoscope of colours and aromas. Vendors peddle an array of fresh produce, from exotic fruits and vegetables to fragrant herbs and spices, while the air is filled with the tantalizing scent of sizzling street food.
Dong Ba Market is renowned for its culinary offerings, with stalls serving up local specialties like bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), banh khoai (Hue-style pancakes), and nem lui (grilled pork skewers). We sampled these delectable dishes while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the market, where locals and tourists alike gathered to indulge in Hue’s culinary delights.
In addition to its culinary treasures, Dong Ba Market is also a treasure trove of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. We browsed through the stalls selling traditional Vietnamese ao dai (long dresses), lacquerware, silk scarves, and intricately embroidered fabrics, perfect for picking up unique mementos of our visit to Hue.
Whether you’re a foodie, cultural enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of local life, Dong Ba Market offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Hue’s rich cultural tapestry.