Thieng Lieng Island Adventure: Unveiling the Hidden Gem
Thieng Lieng Island, situated approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City in the Thanh An commune of the Can Gio district, holds the promise of an extraordinary getaway. This island hamlet boasts a natural landscape adorned with rivers, canals, and lush green forests, providing a serene retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. With minimal human impact, Thieng Lieng Island remains untouched and retains its rustic, wild nature, making it a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Embarking on the Thieng Lieng Island Adventure offers the opportunity to discover the island’s peaceful charm, immerse oneself in its elegant way of life, and experience a novel journey in the remote and challenging terrain of Saigon.
Itinerary
07:45 am: Departure from Saigon Water Bus Station
The adventure begins with a pick-up from the Saigon Water Bus Station, where anticipation fills the air. As the luxury speedboat sets sail, guests are greeted with a light breakfast of Sugar Town cake, accompanied by mineral water and seasonal fruits. The boat ride provides a chance to breathe in the fresh air and gain insights into the daily lives of the local citizens residing along the riverbanks.
09:00 am: Arrival at Thieng Lieng Island
Welcoming the group at the ferry bridge, each guest receives a traditional conical hat, symbolizing the start of an authentic journey. A souvenir photo in front of the Thieng Lieng welcome gate captures the excitement and serves as a memento of this remarkable experience. To begin the exploration, each guest is provided with a bicycle, opening the door to Thieng Lieng’s captivating wonders.
Discovering Thieng Lieng Island
Thieng Lieng Island offers a unique ecological landscape, characterized by its vibrant green river views. Visitors have the opportunity to relish the island’s exclusive water coconut ice cream, a delightful treat that showcases the island’s distinct flavors and culinary heritage. The culinary adventure continues with a lunch featuring dishes crafted from natural ingredients sourced from the mangrove ecosystem. Octopus dipped in young tamarind leaves, grilled oysters, and salted chicken are just some of the diverse and tantalizing options that showcase Thieng Lieng Island’s gastronomic delights.
Immersing in Cultural Experiences
Thieng Lieng Island presents an array of cultural encounters that allow visitors to delve deeper into the essence of the community. A foot bath, infused with granulated salt and traditional herbs, offers relaxation and serves as an introduction to the intricate process of salt-making, a prominent occupation in Thieng Lieng. Witnessing the process firsthand provides a glimpse into the value added by the local people’s orchard ecosystem, delivering a profound appreciation for the “every season, every drink” approach.
The journey continues as visitors engage in the art of making typical Southern cakes, using pure natural ingredients sourced from the island. Learning the techniques and nuances of the Zeng Lieng salt-marsh community’s salt-making profession unravels the rich cultural heritage intertwined with the island’s livelihood.
A visit to the island hamlet’s livestock area introduces guests to the additional means of sustenance for the island’s inhabitants. Interacting with the goats against the backdrop of the distinctive salt field landscape in Thieng Lieng creates an unforgettable experience that blends nature and tradition.
Cultural Highlights and Local Art
The Thieng Lieng Island Adventure also encompasses an exploration of cultural highlights and local artistry. Visitors have the opportunity to check in at the iconic “Doi Tamarind” welcome gate, where a specialty awaits: salted lemonade. The refreshing beverage tantalizes the taste buds and becomes a cherished memory of the journey. The “five-color” house, featuring unique local art architecture, serves as another noteworthy stop. Here, guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, enjoying the melodies of sen and zither played by talented folk artisans. The art of Don Ca Tai Tu, an integral part of Thieng Lieng’s cultural heritage, becomes a portal to understanding the island’s soul.
Departure from Thieng Lieng Island
After a day filled with exploration, cultural immersion, and unforgettable encounters, the Thieng Lieng Island Adventure comes to a close. Guests bid farewell to the island’s tranquil charm and vibrant community, taking with them cherished memories and a profound appreciation for Thieng Lieng’s natural beauty and way of life.
02:00 pm: Return to Saigon
The return journey to Saigon marks the end of this exceptional adventure. Guests reflect on the experiences and moments captured, savoring the memories of Thieng Lieng Island. The boat ride back provides a final opportunity to soak in the tranquility of the rivers, bidding farewell to the island while holding the promise of future explorations.
03:00 pm: Arrival in Saigon
The adventure concludes as the boat docks in Saigon, leaving guests with a sense of fulfillment and a deeper connection to the hidden gem of Thieng Lieng Island. The memories created during this remarkable journey will linger, serving as a reminder of the island’s allure and the enriching experiences encountered.
Conclusion
The Thieng Lieng Island Adventure offers a captivating escape from the bustling city life of Ho Chi Minh City. Situated just a short distance away, this hidden gem provides an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty. From the moment of departure to the final return, the journey through Thieng Lieng Island unveils a world of captivating landscapes, delectable cuisine, cultural encounters, and local artistry. Each step taken and experience cherished contributes to a deeper understanding of the island’s rustic charm and the resilience of its people. The Thieng Lieng Island Adventure is an invitation to explore, discover, and embrace the hidden treasures that lie within this remarkable destination. Book your adventure today and embark on a journey that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul.
Inclusions:
Luxury Speedboat Transfer: Enjoy a comfortable and scenic journey from Saigon Water Bus Station to Thieng Lieng Island aboard a luxury speedboat.
Light Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious light breakfast on board the speedboat, including Sugar Town cake, mineral water, and seasonal fruits.
Conical Hat: Each guest receives a traditional conical hat, symbolizing the beginning of the island adventure and serving as a souvenir.
Bicycle Rental: Explore Thieng Lieng Island at your own pace with a bicycle provided for each guest, allowing you to immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty.
Exclusive Experiences: Engage in a range of exclusive experiences, including a foot bath with granulated salt and traditional herbs, witnessing the salt-making process, learning to make Southern cakes, and interacting with the goats in the salt field landscape.
Culinary Delights: Indulge in the island’s unique culinary offerings, such as the exclusive water coconut ice cream and lunch featuring dishes made from natural ingredients sourced from the mangrove ecosystem.
Cultural Highlights: Visit the iconic “Doi Tamarind” welcome gate, explore the “five-color” house with its distinctive local art architecture, and enjoy the melodies of sen and zither played by talented folk artisans.
Knowledgeable Tour Guide: Benefit from the guidance and expertise of a knowledgeable tour guide who will provide insights into the island’s culture, history, and traditions.
Return Transfers: Enjoy a comfortable return journey from Thieng Lieng Island to Saigon Water Bus Station.
Exclusions:
Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses, such as additional food and beverages, souvenirs, or other items not mentioned in the inclusions, are not included in the tour package.
Gratuities: Tips for the tour guide and boat staff are not included and are at the discretion of the guests.
Travel Insurance: It is recommended that guests have their own travel insurance coverage for the duration of the tour.
Optional Activities: Any optional activities or attractions not specifically mentioned in the itinerary are not included and may incur additional costs if chosen by guests.
Accommodation: The tour package does not include accommodation as it is designed as a full-day tour returning to Saigon on the same day.
Please note that the inclusions and exclusions may vary depending on the specific tour package or any customizations made. It is essential to review the detailed itinerary and terms and conditions provided by the Asia Travel Mates Sales Consultant before booking.