Ho Chi Minh – Ben Tre: 2-hour drive
At approx. 08:30 this morning leaves the noise, hustle and bustle of Vietnam’s biggest and busiest city behind as the scenery gradually changes to rolling rice paddy fields while on a private vehicle transfer down to the Mekong Delta.
Arrive in Ben Tre Province, and first take a ride on the back of a xe loi, part two-benched cart and part motorcycle, through back paths, coconut trees, lush rice paddies and fruit farms. Next step aboard and begin the private “Mango Cruise” along a picturesque canal to soak up the Delta scenery enjoying fresh coconut juice en-route. Stop at a small brick workshop where locals still use centuries-old traditional methods to make the bricks by hand.
Back on the boat, cross the river to start a 4 km bicycle trip exploring Phong Nam village riding along flat lanes. Visit a local house to see coconut processing by hand. Continue cycling to a “hu tieu”, a rice noodle factory, to watch the noodle making process. Take a short walk to Mrs. Huong’s home where the family lives on fishing, shrimp and farming. Enjoy tropical fruits and honey tea before taking a smaller sampan to explore a hidden maze of small, sun-dappled canals gaining an insiders perspective on daily river life.
Back on board the “Mango Cruise” boat and continue to the Mango Home Stay restaurant to enjoy a Vietnamese lunch on the garden terrace. After lunch, take a leisurely walk to the house of Mr Sau Tuong, Have a chat with him and learn how to make rice paper which is the most famous specialty of My Long village. Continue to a nearby house of Mr Hung, a famous sticky rice maker in the village to feed his stock of catfish and walk through his fruit garden.
Mid-afternoon depart Ben Tre and transfer by road a short distance further to tranquil Thoi Son Island, otherwise known as Unicorn Island. The Island is located on the river in between My Tho and Ben Tre, and although just 90 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City it is seemingly a world away! The island is lush and peaceful with modest homes nestled amongst the multitude of coconut palms, and locals who still predominately grow tropical fruits such as longan, mango, pomelo, and banana.
On arrival, transfer to the charming Island Lodge, a boutique property tucked away in between the fruit and palm trees on the banks of the river. This secluded property with onsite owner/managers has just 12 well equipped and comfortable guest rooms, ensuring the peaceful and relaxed atmosphere is maintained and that guest comfort is not compromised.
The style is relaxed Indochine style with local influences throughout, and the owners’ passion and lodge’s commitment to both sustainability and the surrounding local community is evident.
After check-in take some time to freshen up and perhaps a refreshing swim in the pool. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is at leisure to relax and enjoy the facilities and soak up the ambience.
Overnight : Thoi Son island – The Island Lodge
Meal : Breakfast | Lunch