Ben Tre

Ben Tre is a city situated in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam and is just about 2 hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. It is the capital of Ben Tre Province which occupies the south-eastern region of the country. What puts Ben Tre on the map are its serene waterfronts, the delta, its islets and the old settlements.These townships are connected to its adjoining region, especially the cities Tra Vinh and My Tho, by the roadways. Therefore, Ben Tre is often considered a great destination for a weekend getaway. It is a good place for those looking for an offbeat experience in Vietnam. However, this picturesque city also has a dark past. It is reckoned to be the place where a scuffle between Vietcong and the Vietnamese army led to the great US- Vietnam War. During the time, Ben Tre Province was known as Kien Hoa Province. The bombings and attacks were intense enough to change the hilly landscape of Ben Tre into flat riverside lands. In its present form, Ben Tre Tourism has gained popularity due to its laidback river tours and offbeat sights. While other industries are present, Ben Tre's claim to fame is its soft and creamy coconut candy. Coconuts are also the city's primary export.