1. The best time to visit

The best time to visit Ben Tre, a province in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, is typically during the dry season, which runs from November to April. Ultimately, the best time to visit Ben Tre depends on your preferences. If you prefer more comfortable weather and outdoor activities, aim for the dry season from November to February. However, if you want to experience the region’s agricultural activities, consider visiting during the wet season, when the Mekong Delta is at its most vibrant. Keep in mind that weather patterns can vary from year to year, so it’s a good idea to check the current weather conditions before planning your trip.

2. How to arrive Ben Tre

To reach Ben Tre, you can follow these transportation options based on your starting location:

From Ho Chi Minh City:

• By Bus: There are several bus companies operating from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre. You can take a direct bus from the Mien Dong Bus Station in Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre.
  By Car: Renting a car or hiring a taxi is a convenient option. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
  By Motorbike: If you enjoy motorbike rides, you can rent a motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City and ride to Ben Tre. Ensure you have a valid license and wear appropriate safety gear

From Can Tho:

• By Bus: Buses run from Can Tho to Ben Tre. Check with the local bus stations for schedules and availability.
  By Car: You can hire a taxi or use a car-sharing service for a comfortable journey. It takes approximately 3-4 hours by car.

From My Tho (Tien Giang Province):

• By Bus: Buses or minibusses operate from My Tho to Ben Tre. Inquire at the local bus station for the most up-to-date schedules.
  By Boat: You can also take a boat ride from My Tho to Ben Tre, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Mekong River. Arrange for boat services at the local docks.

Ben Tre is known for its scenic landscapes, coconut groves, and traditional handicraft villages. Exploring the province by boat and taking part in local activities, such as making coconut candies and visiting fruit orchards, are some of the highlights of a visit to this tranquil part of the Mekong Delta.

3. Ben Tre’s cuisine

When visiting Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, you’ll have the opportunity to savor a variety of delicious dishes and local specialties. The cuisine in Ben Tre is heavily influenced by the region’s abundant coconut groves, rivers, and fertile land. Here are some must-try foods and dishes in Ben Tre:

1. Coconut Candy (Kẹo Dừa): Ben Tre is famous for its coconut candies. These sweet and chewy treats are made from fresh coconut milk, sugar, and various flavors. You can visit local candy workshops to see how they are made and purchase some as souvenirs.
2. Bánh Xèo: This savory Vietnamese pancake is made from rice flour and filled with a mixture of shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs. It’s typically served with fresh lettuce leaves and rice paper for wrapping.
3. Grilled Seafood: Ben Tre’s proximity to the coast means that fresh seafood is abundant. Try grilled prawns, fish, and squid, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
4. Hủ tiếu Bến Tre: This is a popular noodle soup in the region, consisting of clear broth, rice noodles, and a variety of toppings like shrimp, pork, and herbs.
5. Bánh Mì Hòa Phát: This local sandwich shop is known for its delicious banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches). Don’t miss the banh mi pâté, a special creation featuring pâté, cold cuts, and fresh herbs.
6. Canh Chua: A tangy and flavorful Vietnamese sour soup made with fish, shrimp, vegetables, tamarind, and herbs. It’s a delightful combination of sweet and sour flavors.
7. Cơm Nướng (Grilled Rice): This dish features rice cooked on an open flame, resulting in a crispy, slightly smoky crust. It’s often served with grilled meats and a dipping sauce.
8. Fresh Fruit: Ben Tre is known for its orchards and a wide variety of tropical fruits, including dragon fruit, pomelo, longan, and rambutan. Enjoy these fresh fruits in markets or as dessert.
9. Cá Lóc Kho Tộ (Clay Pot Braised Snakehead Fish): Snakehead fish is a regional delicacy, often cooked in a clay pot with a savory caramelized sauce and served with rice.
10. Bánh Tét: This traditional Vietnamese sticky rice cake is typically made during the Lunar New Year (Tet) festival but can also be found year-round. It’s filled with mung beans and pork and wrapped in banana leaves.
11. Hủ tiếu Mì Saigon: A local specialty, this dish combines both hủ tiếu (rice noodles) and mì (egg noodles) in a flavorful soup with various toppings.
12. Fried Spring Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn): These fresh spring rolls are filled with shrimp, herbs, vermicelli noodles, and sometimes pork. They are typically served with peanut sauce.

Exploring local markets, street food stalls, and riverside restaurants in Ben Tre is a delightful way to experience the region’s culinary treasures. The use of fresh ingredients and a balance of flavors make Ben Tre’s cuisine a true delight for food enthusiasts.