Discover Lò Rèn star apple, a creamy Mekong Delta delicacy, in Tien Giang’s My Tho. Explore orchards, costs, and book eco-tours with Legend Travel Group!
Nestled in the verdant orchards of Vinh Kim, just minutes from My Tho, Tien Giang, the Lò Rèn star apple is a celebrated treasure of the Mekong Delta, famed for its round shape, thin skin, small seeds, and creamy, sweet flesh. Grown in the fertile alluvial soils of the Tien River, this VietGAP-certified fruit offers a refreshing, mildly sweet flavor that captivates food enthusiasts. A visit to My Tho’s orchards or markets provides an authentic taste of Tien Giang’s agricultural heritage. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to experience Lò Rèn star apples while exploring My Tho’s cultural and natural wonders. Start your adventure—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as its vibrant hub, now includes the former Dong Thap Province, enhancing its appeal as a culinary and eco-tourism destination. Upgraded infrastructure, including cycling paths and electric boat networks, supports sustainable visits to Vinh Kim’s orchards and My Tho’s attractions, aligning with the “Green Delta” initiative.
With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tour operator, dedicated to showcasing Vietnam’s agricultural and cultural treasures. Our Tien Giang tours combine eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—with hands-on Lò Rèn star apple tasting and orchard exploration, guided by local experts. Supporting Vinh Kim’s farmers, we offer transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for an authentic, eco-conscious experience
Lò Rèn star apple, grown in Vinh Kim commune, 10 km from My Tho, is a Mekong Delta icon, prized for its glossy purple or green skin, juicy white flesh, and subtle sweetness. Cultivated across over 1,000 hectares with an annual yield of 15–20 tons per hectare, these VietGAP-certified fruits reflect Tien Giang’s sustainable farming practices. The region’s tropical climate—dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F)—ensures peak harvests from October to February (lunar calendar). Savor Lò Rèn star apples fresh, in smoothies, or at My Tho’s markets and orchards, paired with eco-tours for a true Mekong experience.
Fresh Eating: Cut in half and scoop out the creamy flesh with a spoon; chill for a refreshing treat.
Smoothies and Desserts: Blend with coconut milk or yogurt for smoothies, or pair with sticky rice for a sweet dessert.
Pairings: Enhance with a sprinkle of chili salt or a drizzle of lime juice for a tangy twist.
Eco-Tip: Choose VietGAP-certified star apples to support sustainable farming practices.
Vinh Kim Fruit Garden
A lush orchard in Vinh Kim, offering fresh Lò Rèn star apple picking and tasting.
Cost: Entry $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND); star apples $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per kg.
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Hands-on picking, farm-fresh fruits, rural tranquility.
Tips: Visit during peak season (October–February, lunar calendar); included in our Vinh Kim Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
My Tho Night Market
A vibrant food hub on 30/4 Street, serving Lò Rèn star apples fresh or in smoothies.
Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per serving; $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per kg.
Hours: 6:00 PM–11:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Lively atmosphere, diverse Mekong dishes, affordable.
Tips: Try star apple smoothies; included in our My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80).
Cai Be Fruit Market
A bustling market 40 km from My Tho, offering Lò Rèn star apples and local produce.
Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per kg.
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Vibrant market vibe, fresh harvests, budget-friendly.
Tips: Visit early for the best selection; included in our Cai Be Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
Mekong Taste Restaurant (My Tho)
A riverside eatery offering Lò Rèn star apple in creative dishes like salads or desserts.
Cost: $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND) per serving.
Hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Elegant presentation, riverfront seating, diverse menu.
Tips: Reserve for sunset dining; included in our Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85).
Visit Orchards: Tour Vinh Kim’s orchards to pick and taste Lò Rèn star apples straight from the tree ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND for guided tours).
Join Workshops: Learn about star apple cultivation and VietGAP standards from local farmers ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).
Pair with Eco-Tours: Combine tastings with cycling through orchards, electric boat cruises, or visits to My Tho’s Vinh Trang Pagoda for a full Mekong adventure.
Shop at Markets: Buy fresh Lò Rèn star apples or star apple-based products like jams at My Tho or Cai Be markets.
Explore Local Cuisine: Complement with Tien Giang specialties like Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho or bánh vả.
Tips:
Bring a reusable tote for fruit purchases to support sustainability.
Book guided eco-tours for insights into star apple farming; included in our tours.
Visit from October to February (lunar calendar) for the ripest star apples.
My Tho, Tien Giang’s hub, is the gateway to Vinh Kim (10 km away):
By Bus:
Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to My Tho: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours, 70 km).
My Tho to Vinh Kim: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND, 15–20 minutes).
Providers: Futa Bus (Tel: +84 1900 6067), Thanh Buoi.
By Car/Taxi:
Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, 1.5 hours).
My Tho to Vinh Kim: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND, 15 minutes).
Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 2773 686 868), Grab app.
By Motorbike:
Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours).
My Tho to Vinh Kim: 15–20 minutes.
Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84 938 456 789).
Tips:
Book buses via VeXeRe or Baolau for convenience.
Use offline maps (Maps.me); save Vinh Kim Fruit Garden as a landmark.
Included in our Vinh Kim Eco-Tour ($70–$90) for seamless transfers.
Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for orchard visits and cycling; Tet (January–February, lunar calendar) features festive fruit stalls.
Rainy Season (May–November): Lush orchards with peak star apple harvests (October–February, lunar calendar); enjoy 10–20% tour discounts.
Tips: Book 3–4 weeks in advance for peak seasons; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.
Pack for a sustainable orchard visit:
Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; raincoat ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes; sandals for orchards; waterproof shoes for rainy season.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.
Tech Gear: Smartphone for photos; portable charger; camera for orchard shots.
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for fruit purchases, bamboo straw for sustainability.
Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for small vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.
Lò Rèn Star Apple: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per kg; $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per serving.
Activities:
Orchard tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Farming workshops: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Boat tours: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).
Dining: Local dishes at eateries: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Accommodation (My Tho):
Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).
Hotels (e.g., Minh Kieu Hotel): $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Resorts: $80–$150/night (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).
Transport:
Bus from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Taxi from My Tho to Vinh Kim: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost:
Budget: $15–$35 (bus, market fruits, homestay).
Mid-range: $35–$70 (guided tours, dining, hotel).
Luxury: $100–$180 (resorts, private tours, upscale dining).
Tip: Use ATMs in My Tho for cash; carry small VND notes for markets.
Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for harvest season (October–February, lunar calendar).
Seasonal Tips:
Dry Season: Pack sunscreen; ideal for cycling and orchard visits.
Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush orchards.
Sustainability: Support VietGAP-certified farmers; use eco-transport like bicycles or electric boats.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Vinh Kim Fruit Garden as a landmark.
Safety: Secure valuables at markets; respect orchard boundaries when picking fruit.
Cultural Respect: Greet farmers with “xin chào” (hello); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent in orchards.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase Tien Giang’s agricultural and cultural gems:
Vinh Kim Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Explore Lò Rèn star apple orchards, cycle through Vinh Kim, and taste fresh fruits. Includes transfers, tastings, guide.
Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Savor Lò Rèn star apples, Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, and join coconut candy workshops. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.
My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Taste Lò Rèn star apples at My Tho’s night market, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, and enjoy “Don Ca Tai Tu” music. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.
Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore Vinh Kim, Cai Be Floating Market, Thoi Son Island, and homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!
Lò Rèn Star Apple, a creamy, sweet emblem of Tien Giang Region, Dong Thap Province’s Mekong Delta heritage, offers a luscious taste of the region’s agricultural excellence, located 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Grown in the fertile orchards of Vinh Kim Village in Cai Be District, this seedless fruit, priced at $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per kg, invites travelers to savor local traditions at My Tho’s vibrant markets. Legend Travel Group’s Tien Giang Tours ensure a sustainable Tien Giang Travel experience, blending eco-friendly practices like organic farming support and community-led tours with visits to Cai Be Floating Market and Vinh Trang Pagoda. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly fruit-filled adventure today!
Ready to taste Tien Giang’s luscious Lò Rèn star apples? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the Mekong Delta’s fruitful heart!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
Lò Rèn Star Apple Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, tnktravel.com, vinpearl.com
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