My Tho is the first Mekong Delta city. Its proximity to Ho Chi Minh City and its location alongside one of the Mekong's major tributaries makes My Tho a major trading hub of agriculture and seafood products. A typical day trip to My Tho begins with a drive from Ho Chi Minh City through rice paddies and small villages. Upon arrival in My Tho, it is best to transfer to a sampan to ply the small canals and waterways. The sampan ride includes stops at fruit orchards and at islands mid-river.

VINH TRANG PAGODA
The pagoda is a beautiful and well-maintained sanctuary. The charitable monks here provide a home to orphans, disabled and other needy children. The pagoda is about 1km from the city center. The Vinh Trang pagoda is the largest in Tien Giang province. Built in the 19th century, the pagoda is a harmonious mix of colonial French, Chinese, Vietnamese and Khmer architectural styles. There are many precious statues made of wood inside the pagoda.

THOI SON ISLANDS
This is the highlight of a visit to My Tho including a sampan cruise through the maze of small canals and a visit to friendly local families and tasting fruits in orchid gardens.

DONG TAM SNAKE BREEDING FARM
Located 9km away from My Tho town, Dong Tam is the centre of snake breeding for taking venom for exportation, as well as medicinal plant cultivation and the study and treatment of snakebites for people in the Delta. There is a snake-breeding area with dozens of species to feed or even play with. There are also crocodiles and other species of birds and animals on hand.