Bến Tre – Sailing Through the Land of Coconuts
We arrived in Bến Tre as the morning mist hovered over winding rivers, and the scent of coconut filled the air. Known for its iconic coconut palms, the province offers a true taste of the Mekong’s soul — quiet, green, and deeply connected to the land and water. Our journey began with a boat ride through small canals lined with nipa palms. The sound of the paddle cutting through the water was calming, almost meditative. We visited a local family that makes traditional coconut candy by hand, watching as the syrup boiled and cooled into rich, golden sweetness. The craftsmanship, passed down for generations, was a reminder of how deeply rooted traditions still thrive here. In the afternoon, we cycled along village roads shaded by towering coconut trees. Friendly smiles greeted us at every turn. We stopped at fruit orchards to taste rambutan and mangosteen freshly picked from the trees — the flavors bursting with the vitality of the delta. Bến Tre’s history spoke through its people. At the Đồng Khởi Monument, we heard stories of the courageous women-led uprising that ignited local resistance during wartime. The pride in local voices, even decades later, showed how closely the past still breathes in Bến Tre’s heart. As dusk approached, we sat by the river, sipping fresh coconut water, the sky painted with soft orange and purple hues. It was in that moment — between the whisper of palm leaves and the gentle ripple of the water — that we felt completely at peace. Bến Tre is not just a place to visit; it's a place to feel. To slow down. To breathe. To remember the quiet joy of simplicity.
A Spiritual Journey to Châu Đốc: Pilgrimage and Peace
My journey to Châu Đốc began with a deep curiosity about the spiritual heart of the Mekong Delta. As the sun rose over the gentle waters of the Bassac River, I found myself surrounded by the serene beauty and cultural vibrance that define this border town. The Ba Chua Xu Temple stood majestically at the foot of Sam Mountain, drawing pilgrims from across the region who came to pray and offer incense. During my stay, I wandered through colorful local markets, tasted delicious fermented fish dishes, and took a boat trip to floating villages where life moves at a peaceful rhythm. What made the experience unforgettable was not just the sights and sounds, but the heartfelt hospitality of the people. Châu Đốc left me with a sense of calm and connection — a place where tradition lives on and every corner tells a story.
A Day in Long An: Where Nature and Culture Meet
Just a short drive from the city, Long An felt like stepping into a completely different world — calm, green, and full of life. My day started with a walk through vibrant rice paddies that stretched as far as the eye could see. Farmers greeted me with warm smiles and shared stories about their work, passed down through generations. I then visited a lotus pond in the countryside, where the soft pink blossoms reflected on the still water. It was a peaceful moment that captured the essence of Long An's natural beauty. After that, I explored a local handicraft village, where skilled artisans weaved mats and made rice paper using traditional methods. The highlight of my visit was the Lang Sen Wetland Reserve — a paradise for bird lovers. As I paddled along the quiet waterways, I spotted flocks of storks and herons gliding overhead. Long An reminded me of the quiet strength and simplicity that defines the Mekong Delta. It’s a place where nature and tradition still live in harmony.
Echoes of the Past: Discovering the Legacy of Bạc Liêu
My trip to Bạc Liêu was a journey through time and tradition. Walking down the old streets, I was drawn to the iconic Bạc Liêu Prince's mansion — a symbol of wealth and extravagance during Vietnam’s colonial past. The stories of lavish parties and classical music echoed through the halls, reminding me of a bygone era. I spent the afternoon listening to Đờn ca tài tử performed live at a local cultural house. The melancholic tunes and poetic lyrics told tales of love, loyalty, and longing that touched my heart deeply. Later, I visited the Bạc Liêu Wind Farm, where giant turbines stood tall against the horizon, creating a breathtaking view as the sun dipped into the sea. Bạc Liêu is more than a place — it’s a living memory of Southern Vietnamese spirit, history, and resilience. Every corner holds a story, and every moment feels like a gentle melody from the past.
A Journey to the Land of Pink Lotus
Our journey to Đồng Tháp began with the scent of lotus in the air and a quiet anticipation of timeless beauty. This land, known for its endless pink lotus fields and tranquil countryside, welcomed us with open arms and a sense of peace hard to find elsewhere. As we meandered through Sa Đéc Flower Village, the explosion of colors and fragrances was overwhelming. Every corner bloomed with chrysanthemums, marigolds, orchids, and more — tended with love by generations of local gardeners. We visited the historic home of Huỳnh Thủy Lê, a testament to the French colonial legacy and the setting of Marguerite Duras’s famous novel The Lover. In the afternoon, we paid our respects at the Mausoleum of Nguyễn Sinh Sắc, an influential scholar and the father of President Hồ Chí Minh. The site was not only a tribute to a great man but also a symbol of Vietnam’s resilience and dedication to its roots. Perhaps the most profound moment was gliding through Tràm Chim National Park at sunrise. The quiet hum of nature, the calls of rare birds, and the reflection of the sky on water transported us into a living painting. It was a humbling reminder of the delicate harmony between man and nature. Đồng Tháp doesn’t ask for much – just that you slow down, breathe deeply, and open your heart to its stories. And in return, it gives you memories wrapped in lotus petals. Author Name: Nguyễn Văn Tâm
Tranquil Waters of Hậu Giang – A Peaceful Journey into the Mekong's Heart
Hậu Giang welcomed us with gentle rivers and kind smiles. From the moment we arrived, the pace of life slowed down. There were no skyscrapers, no noisy traffic — just the soothing sounds of water lapping against boat hulls and birdsong echoing through the trees. We started our journey at the famous Ngã Bảy Floating Market, where boats brimmed with fresh fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods. Sellers called out their products with joy, and the scent of ripe mangoes filled the air. It was a marketplace on water — vibrant, colorful, and alive with tradition. Later, we visited a local pomelo orchard, where farmers proudly showed us how they nurtured their fruits using eco-friendly methods passed down for generations. We tasted the sweetness of Hậu Giang’s land in every juicy bite. A visit to the Hậu Giang Provincial Museum reminded us that beneath the beauty lies a history of resilience. The exhibits told stories of wartime struggle, local heroes, and the cultural fabric that binds the community together. As the sun set, we cruised slowly along the canals, the sky turning shades of gold and rose. Children waved from the riverbanks, and the scent of blooming flowers drifted across the water. It felt like time had paused — letting us truly be in the moment. Hậu Giang is more than a destination — it's a peaceful corner of the Mekong where nature, culture, and humanity coexist in gentle harmony.
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