Joanna James
Local markets are places where unusual trinkets and treasures can be discovered. This applies to the beachside town of Mui Ne, too. Here are five places to visit for a great shopping experience.
Having an early opening time of 5 am, Phan Thiet Central Market is the best place to go if you are looking to observe the local life. It is popular among the locals for its fresh fruits, meat, spices, and most importantly, the seafood. Do not be surprised to see live crabs, squids, snails, and clams squirming around as you walk through the market. Many a Mui Ne resort source their seafood needs from this market, thus quality items are expected.
Opened in 2012, Ham Tien Market can be distinguished by its light blue building. The building houses many stalls that sell a wide variety of goods, from vegetables to condiments to dried food to souvenirs. If you want a larger selection of ornaments, clothes, and souvenirs than the ones that can be found in gift shops or in the vicinity of higher-end hotels like Anantara Mui Ne Resort, this would be the place to go. Just remember to haggle at least 50% lower than the price indicated.
If you want to purchase something beautiful and unique to take home, while doing some social good, Mui Ne Handicraft at Java Restaurant should be on your list of places to visit. The items at the shop are made by disadvantaged people of the area, such as those with hearing impairments. Open from 7 am to 11 pm, there are blankets, clothes, bags, and jewellery - all handmade - for you to purchase. All profits from sales go to the disadvantaged locals who made them.
A well-known jewellery brand in Mui Ne, Long Beach Pearl is a place for unique designs at a reasonable price. The pearls are sourced from Nha Trang, Co To, Phu Quoc Island, and Quang Ninh. The array of jewellery covers everything from rings to pendants to earrings to bracelets. As there is something to suit everyone's taste and something to fit any budget, it is a popular place for gift purchasing. In addition to pearls, they also have jewellery with precious stones such as topaz and rubies.
As is indicated by the name itself, this is possibly the most popular market in Mui Ne among the locals. It is an outdoor market located along the beach, which sets it apart from most other markets. You will be able to see fishermen bringing in the day's catch, and watch as life unfolds on the narrow streets of Phan Thiet. If you are a fan of photography, this is one market you must visit, for both glimpsing of an authentic lifestyle as well as for the impressive array of fish. As this place can be quite crowded, just keep in mind not to block the pathway while pausing to admire and take pictures.
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