Can Gio has seen an increase in activity during late April, with holidaymakers and participants of the VnExpress Marathon Green Paradise Can Gio flocking to the area. In addition to the 5,000 runners, the locality anticipates welcoming thousands more tourists for day visits and short stays, keeping local residents busy.
Ms. Chi, a vendor at Hang Duong market, reported a surge in seafood pre-orders in recent days. Popular items include tiger prawns, various clams, sweet snails, and red snails. Even premium items like large slipper lobsters, priced over 1 million VND, and sweet snails, over 500,000 VND, are in high demand. To meet this, Ms. Chi has increased her stock by 30% compared to previous years.
"Customers coming for the run are significantly increasing their seafood orders for pick-up on the morning of 1/5, a noticeable rise compared to previous years," the vendor stated.
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Duyen Hai road through central Can Gio, noon 29/4. Photo: *Duc Dong*. |
Mr. Hoang, who owns a restaurant on Duyen Hai road, also expressed enthusiasm for the race. He noted that while Can Gio hosts runs annually, an event of the VnExpress Marathon's scale is unprecedented. Many runners have chosen to stay near his restaurant, prompting him to increase purchases of seafood and other fresh ingredients. He is focusing on simple, low-oil dishes, understanding that athletes prioritize healthy meals before competing.
"With more customers, we must prepare more thoroughly, from ingredients to staffing. I hope sales will be good in the coming days," he said.
The influx of 5,000 participants to Can Gio has significantly boosted the accommodation sector. Hotels in the Hang Duong area, along Duyen Hai road, as well as resorts and the 30/4 coastal campsite, are all fully booked. Owners reported that many guests are runners and groups who made reservations over a month in advance.
Mr. Quoc Huy, owner of a homestay near 30/4 beach, shared that his establishment provides early breakfast, designated storage areas, and transport assistance to the starting point for athlete guests.
Local residents view major events like the VnExpress Marathon as infrequent yet valuable business opportunities for Can Gio. Beyond increasing visitor numbers, many also hope the event will enhance the area's recognition.
The VnExpress Marathon Green Paradise Can Gio is the first marathon of its scale, attracting 5,000 participants, to be held in this region. In addition to the main race day, side activities such as race-kit collection, experiential zones, music, and fireworks have also drawn large crowds.
The race features a distinctive "through forest, touch sea" route, traversing Dai Lo Thoi Dai within Vinhomes Green Paradise, running along Duyen Hai road in central Can Gio, and exploring Rung Sac – a transportation route through the mangrove forest. Beyond its athletic significance, the event is expected to become a new tourism product, helping to establish Can Gio as a key destination in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam.
Hoai Phuong
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