Ben Tre province located in the Mekong Delta in Southern Vietnam, is famously known as the “Coconut Land” due to its endless coconut groves, tranquil rivers, and unique cultural heritage of the Mekong Delta region. With its picturesque natural beauty and rich traditional crafts, Bến Tre is becoming an increasingly popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Ben Tre province attractions
Bến Tre boasts unique natural landscapes with vast coconut gardens and winding, peaceful rivers. Here are some highlights that you should not miss when visiting:
1. Cồn Quy (Quy Islet): Located in the Tứ Cồn area of Châu Thành District, Quy Islet is an interesting destination with vast fruit orchards and fresh, clean air. Visitors can enjoy river swimming, fishing, and savoring local specialties of the Mekong Delta.
2. Cồn Phụng Tân Thạnh (Phung Islet in Tan Thanh): Situated in Tân Thạnh Commune, Châu Thành District, Phung Islet is renowned for its captivating ecological landscapes. Visitors can explore the unique Coconut Religion relics and participate in outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and tasting local delicacies.
3. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu Memorial Complex: This site is dedicated to Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, a great cultural figure of Vietnam. Located in An Đức Commune, Ba Tri District, it is a must-visit for those interested in learning about Vietnamese history and culture.
4. Đồng Khởi Guerrilla Village: Located in Định Thủy Commune, Mỏ Cày Nam District, Đồng Khởi Guerrilla Village preserves the memories of the anti-American resistance war, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the history and resilient fighting spirit of the people of Bến Tre.
5. Chợ Lách Flower Village: Famous for its unique ornamental plants, Chợ Lách Flower Village is an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of various flowers and bonsai trees. It’s also a great spot to purchase unique potted plants as souvenirs.
6. Cái Mơn Fruit Garden: Situated in Chợ Lách, Cái Mơn Fruit Garden is perfect for exploring diverse tropical fruits such as rambutan, durian, and mangosteen. Visitors can also experience picking fresh fruits directly from the garden.
Unique culinary of the Coconut Land
Bến Tre attracts tourists not only with its beautiful scenery but also with its enticing local specialties:
1. Coconut Rice: Coconut rice is one of the most famous dishes in Bến Tre. To prepare this aromatic dish, rice is soaked in coconut water, then cooked directly inside a coconut. When ready, the coconut rice has a delightful coconut fragrance and pairs perfectly with savory dishes like caramelized shrimp and braised pork.
2. Coconut Worms (Đuông Dừa): A popular delicacy in the Mekong Delta, coconut worms are found inside coconut palms and can be prepared in various ways such as frying, grilling, or even eating raw. While unique, this dish might not be for everyone, so consider your comfort level before trying.
3. Bánh Canh Bột Xắt: This is a distinctive noodle soup from the Mekong Delta, featuring square-cut, thin noodles served in a delicious broth. It is a must-try when visiting Bến Tre.
4. Canh Chua Cá Linh Bông So Đũa: A traditional sour soup made with linh fish and sesbania flowers, this dish captures the authentic flavors of the Mekong Delta region.
5. Coconut Rat: A unique delicacy made from coconut-fed rats. For those who enjoy exploring exotic flavors, this is a dish worth trying.
6. Bánh Xèo with Rice Snails (Bánh Xèo Ốc Gạo): A delicious and unique version of the Vietnamese pancake, made with rice snails and usually served with fresh herbs and a tangy fish sauce.
7. Gỏi Củ Hủ Dừa Tôm Thịt: A fresh and tasty salad made with coconut shoots, shrimp, and pork. The flavors are refreshing and appealing, making it a must-try dish.
8. Ben Tre Coconut Candy: A perfect souvenir to take home, Bến Tre coconut candy is known for its delicious coconut flavor, especially the dried coconut candy variety.
Typical culture of Ben Tre
Unique Festivals
1. Revolutionary Traditional Festival: Held on January 17th at the Đồng Khởi Relic Site, this festival commemorates the victory of the people of the coconut land during the Đồng Khởi movement in 1960, recreating the image of the burning torch and the indomitable heroic spirit.
2. Bến Tre Coconut Festival: This grand event honors the province’s iconic coconut tree, featuring large-scale celebrations and various captivating programs that attract many visitors.
3. Kỳ Yên Festival: A famous traditional festival in Bến Tre that celebrates the Đồng Khởi victory, attracting numerous visitors from all over.
Traditional Craft Villages
Ben Tre province is famous for being the land of immense green coconut trees, so the craft village producing handicraft products from coconut is also quite diverse and rich.
1. Phước Long Handicraft Village: Renowned for its handmade products made from bamboo, such as hats, bags, and decorative items, Phước Long Village is a fascinating destination for those who love exploring traditional culture and art.
2. Hưng Phong Coconut Fiber Basket Village: also known as Con Oc, is isolated from the mainland, on a floating Island. Hung Phong coconut basket weaving village has been established since 1992 with the main products of producing gift baskets, flower sockets from coconut roots. The villagers weave the baskets using the natural color of the coconut fiber, which makes them unique.
3. Nhơn Thạnh – An Hiệp – Thành Thới B Mat Weaving Village: This cluster of villages is famous for mat weaving, a unique traditional craft of Bến Tre.
Visiting Bến Tre is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, rich culture, and unique culinary experiences of the Mekong Delta. Whether exploring the lush coconut groves, enjoying delicious local dishes, or participating in vibrant festivals, Bến Tre promises a memorable and authentic Vietnamese experience.
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