travel-A taste of the country life-

Among the many places of interest in the Mekong Delta’s Can Tho City, Binh Pho B is a favorite destination for tourists.

The ecotourist area, located in Binh Thuy District’s Long Tuyen Ward, is a great way to experience local country life without ever leaving the city.

The Ba Bo Canal runs through Binh Pho B and boat tours are offered from Ninh Kieu Quay in the city’s downtown area. The boat cruises down the canal making stops at points of interest along the way.

During the trip, tourists can watch the locals going about their daily activities on both sides of the waterway.

One of the first stops is at the Bay Bo Ke Restaurant where guests can enjoy a homemade country breakfast. The eatery, located on an area of 5,000 square meters, is 50 meters from Ba Bo Bridge.

After breakfast, the boat continues on the journey past Thao Nguyen Ectourist Park and turns into Muong Khai Canal, also called Pho Tho or Long Cong Canal, to reach Ba Cong Orchard.

The two-hectare orchard contains several types of fruit trees including star apple, mango, and Nam Roi pomelo. The peaceful area allows visitors to enjoy cycling on paved roads or strolling across bamboo bridges.

Another place worth visiting is the nearby Ba Bo Flower Village. Over 300 households in the 100-hectare community cultivate dozens of species of flowers and ornamental plants. Currently, it is the busiest time of the year for the flower-growers, with many boats transporting bright blossoms to sell.

On the way back to Ninh Kieu Quay, the boat will stop at Thao Nguyen Ecotourist Park upon request. The two-hectare park, boasting both modern and traditional architectural styles, has cottages along the canal for guests to rest, relax and sample Mekong Delta dishes. Tourists can also opt to stay overnight. The rate for an air-conditioned room is VND120,000 (US$6.70) per day.

Visitors can sign up for a guided tour of the Binh Pho B area at the Can Tho City Tourism Management Center, 18-20 Hai Ba Trung Street, Ninh Kieu District.

Reported by Diem Thu