Among them, Vinh Long - formerly part of Ben Tre province - left a lasting impression thanks to its peaceful river landscapes, affordable costs and diverse food offerings.

To fully experience the region, the couple chose to spend a night at a riverside retreat nestled within a coconut garden, about 10km from the former center of Ben Tre.

According to Beatricia, the resort stood out for its lush greenery, with fruit trees and flowers surrounding the property. Outside, there was a tea area and a wooden pier overlooking the Mekong River, offering guests a perfect spot to watch sunrise and sunset.

They stayed in a bungalow - a single-storey structure with a simple layout, wide veranda and sloping roof.

Inside, the room was modestly furnished yet fully equipped, featuring a work desk, coffee corner, television and air conditioning. Large windows and a spacious balcony allowed for comfort and privacy.

“Everything was neat and clean. The bathroom was spacious and filled with natural light.

I was very satisfied with this place. It felt truly comfortable. Especially since we only paid US$21 (VND550,000) per night, including breakfast and free bicycle rental,” Beatricia shared.

During their stay in Vietnam’s coconut region, the couple also booked a private tour that included a boat ride along the river and visits to local workshops producing coconut-based products such as coconut oil and traditional coconut candy.

After tasting the candy, they described it as mildly sweet, fragrant and soft.

“The candy was freshly made and still warm. Even after it hardens, it still tastes great,” the traveler noted.

They also cycled around the area and explored the surroundings by boat, immersing themselves in the tranquil rhythm of river life.

One highlight of the trip was learning how to make banh xeo, a signature dish of southern Vietnam.

Local hosts enthusiastically introduced the ingredients - rice flour batter, shrimp, pork and more - and carefully guided them through the cooking process.

When tasting the dish, Beatricia was impressed by its vibrant golden color and generous filling.

“The pancake is wrapped with rice paper and fresh herbs, creating a refreshing taste. The crispy shell paired with dipping sauce that balances sour, spicy, salty and sweet flavors makes it even better,” she said.

The couple was also surprised by the affordability of their private tour, which cost just VND1.5 million (US$60) per day for two people, including transportation, meals and experiences.

Thao Trinh