Table of Contents
Location
Rach Gia, the capital of Kien GIang Province, is located on the southwestern coast of Vietnam along the Gulf of Thailand. It is a vital hub for commerce, tourism, and fishing in the Mekong Delta. The city is known for its well-developed infrastructure, offering a gateway to Phu Quoc Island and other nearby islands. Rach Gia’s coastal setting and river networks give it a unique charm, making it a vibrant mix of urban life and natural beauty.
Convenience and Living Conditions
Rach Gia has seen rapid urban development in recent years, with various modern facilities contributing to a comfortable lifestyle for both locals and expats. The city has several shopping options like Vincom Plaza and Co.opmart, where residents can find groceries, clothes, and electronics. Traditional markets such as Rach Gia Market offer fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties.
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Healthcare services in the city are relatively accessible, with facilities like Rach Gia General Hospital providing medical care. The city also has several schools and universities, making it an attractive place for families. Rach Gia offers a mix of traditional Vietnamese living with the convenience of modern amenities, and the cost of living remains affordable compared to larger cities.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Rạch Giá ranges from affordable local guesthouses and rental homes to more modern apartments and hotels. In the newer urban areas like Khu do thi lan bien Rach Gia (Rach Gia Seaside Urban Area), there are modern housing developments with better infrastructure, ideal for expats and long-term residents. This area features newer buildings, parks, and access to the beach, offering a more upscale living experience.
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Rental prices are relatively low compared to other cities in Vietnam, and expats can find various options, from studio apartments to larger homes.
Daily Transportation
Transportation in Rach Gia is primarily centered around motorbikes, as in most of Vietnam. Traffic is not as congested as in major cities, making getting around relatively easy. Public buses are available for travel within the city and to nearby towns.
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For intercity travel, Rạch Giá is well-connected by bus and ferry. The Rach Gia Port provides regular ferry services to popular destinations such as Phu Quoc Island, Nam Du Island, and Son Island. Additionally, Rach Gia Airport offers flights to major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, making it convenient for long-distance travel.
Cuisine
Rạch Giá is known for its diverse and flavorful Mekong Delta cuisine. Fresh seafood is a staple here, with dishes like bún cá (fish noodle soup) and cơm tấm (broken rice) being popular among locals. Hải sản nướng (grilled seafood) is also a favorite, offering fresh squid, shrimp, and fish caught daily from the Gulf of Thailand.
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In addition to seafood, you’ll find a variety of street food stalls selling local specialties like bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes) and bánh khọt (mini savory pancakes). Traditional Vietnamese coffee shops and restaurants serving both local and international cuisines are spread across the city, offering a wide range of dining options.
Tourist Attractions
Rach Gia is home to several cultural and natural attractions. The Nguyen Trung Truc Temple is one of the most important historical landmarks in the city, dedicated to the national hero who fought against French colonial forces. Visitors can learn about his contributions and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the temple.
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Another highlight is the Rach Gia Seaside Urban Area, an urban expansion project that features parks, walking paths, and beautiful coastal views. The seaside area is perfect for a stroll, offering picturesque sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand.
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Kien Giang is also the jumping off point for ferries to Phu Quoc island, just a little over 3 hours away. This island has 99 hills from the north to the south and a natural area of 593 km2, making it the largest island in Vietnam. The magnificent scenery, tremendous tourism opportunities, and fresh seafood have turned this into a desirable location.
For a more local island experience, jump on a ferry for Nam Du archipelago. This archipelago features an enormous blue sea and sky, towering mountains rising out of the water, infinite, ancient woods that remain green today, long beautiful beaches, and magnificent rock cliffs. It’s just started taking off as a tourist destination and will provide a much different experience than Phu Quoc.
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For wildlife lovers, check out U Minh Thuong National Park in Rach Gia. It showcases a wide variety of plant and animal life, which can be observed by taking a boat or walking along the trails.
A trip to the Mac Cuu Mausoleum will give you a look at unique architecture blending Western and Eastern styles, and intricate carvings depicting the lives of the deceased. The tombs belong to the Mac Cuu family, who held significant influence during the Nguyen Dynasty.
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Special Events
Don’t miss the Nghinh Ong (Whale worshiping) festival, an event where visitors can witness the fascinating rituals of honoring the whale god, join in the colorful parades and cultural performances, and taste the local cuisine.
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The Nguyen Trung Truc Festival, held annually, is one of the most prominent events in Rạch Giá. It honors the legacy of Nguyen Trung Truc and features cultural activities, parades, and offerings at the temple dedicated to him. This festival draws visitors from across the region and is a key part of the local cultural calendar.
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