**Introduction to the Coconut Floating Market**
The hustle and bustle of trading goods directly on wooden boats is a unique experience that many travelers indulge in at the Bến Tre coconut floating market.
Derived from the Khmer language, “Thom” translates to “large,” hence the name “Thom River,” often colloquially referred to as the “Fragrant River.” This expansive canal, known as Thom River, stretches across Minh Islet, the third-largest islet in Bến Tre. Spanning approximately 15 kilometers, Thom River was established in 1905 to connect the Hàm Luông River with the Cổ Chiên River, serving as the shortest waterway from Bến Tre to Trà Vinh.
Thu Trang, born in 1985 in Ho Chi Minh City, embarked on a journey to Bến Tre in early January. Despite visiting Bến Tre for the fourth time, Trang was consistently captivated by the vibrant scenes of bustling coconut trading along the river.
A Visitor’s Perspective
For avid explorer Thu Trang, each visit to Bến Tre’s coconut floating market is a symphony of sights, sounds, and scents that evoke a profound sense of nostalgia. Against the picturesque backdrop of coconut groves and bustling waterways, Trang finds herself entranced by the vibrant tapestry of commerce unfolding before her eyes. Amidst the flurry of activity, she witnesses the age-old tradition of trading coconut-derived products, an integral aspect of the local economy.
Evolution of the Coconut Floating Market
From its humble origins as a modest canal, Thom River has evolved into a dynamic marketplace, pulsating with energy and vitality. Spanning over 3 kilometers, the coconut floating market stands as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of Bến Tre’s residents. Here, amidst the verdant coconut plantations lining the riverbanks, traders converge to exchange a myriad of coconut products, ranging from fresh coconuts to artisanal crafts.
Cultural Significance and Economic Impact
Beyond its economic significance, the coconut floating market serves as a cultural linchpin, embodying the traditions and values of the local community. Rooted in centuries-old customs, the market reflects the resilience and resourcefulness of Bến Tre’s inhabitants. Moreover, it has emerged as a pivotal driver of tourism, attracting visitors from far and wide to witness the timeless charm of Mekong Delta’s waterborne commerce.
A Journey of Exploration
For intrepid travelers, a visit to Bến Tre’s coconut floating market offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of the Mekong Delta. From navigating the labyrinthine waterways to sampling the region’s culinary delights, every moment is imbued with the spirit of adventure and discovery. Whether meandering through the bustling stalls or partaking in local delicacies, visitors are enveloped in an aura of authenticity and intrigue.
Trang remarked that while Cần Thơ boasts the Cái Răng floating market, Tiền Giang is famed for the Cái Bè floating market, Hậu Giang once had the Ngã Bảy floating market, and An Giang is renowned for the Long Xuyên floating market, Bến Tre is synonymous with the coconut floating market on Thom River. This market is a source of pride for the residents of Mỏ Cày Nam and the broader community of Bến Tre.
**Evolution of Thom River and the Coconut Floating Market**
Originally a modest canal, Thom River has evolved into a bustling marketplace for coconut products. Flanked by coconut groves stretching over 3 kilometers on both banks, the coconut floating market on Thom River has become an emblematic feature of the province, distinguishing itself from other floating markets in the Mekong Delta region. The market’s activities contribute significantly to the economic development and tourism of the area.
According to the Ben Tre Electronic Information Portal, during the French colonial period, the French authorities excavated the Thom Canal in the Mỏ Cày District to connect the Hàm Luông and Cổ Chiên rivers. Thom River played a significant role in the two national liberation wars, bearing witness to the sacrifices of the local population. For many generations, Thom River has been intertwined with the childhood memories of the province’s residents.
**Coconut Trading and Cultural Exploration**
The coconut floating market operates throughout the day, unaffected by the sun, rain, or darkness. Trading activities depend on the progress of orders and the arrival of cargo shipments. The primary products traded here are various coconut derivatives, including coconuts themselves, coconut meat, coconut husks, and coconut oil.
On both banks of Thom River, numerous establishments operate overnight to supply coconut-related products to businesses. These products range from dried coconut rice, coconut husk rope, charcoal made from coconut shells, clean soil derived from coconut husks, coconut oil, coconut candies, coconut fiber mats, to various coconut handicrafts. Notably, villages along Thom River, such as An Thạnh in Mỏ Cày Nam District and Khánh Thạnh Tân in Mỏ Cày Bắc District, have generated employment opportunities for thousands of laborers. Each laborer can husk approximately 2,000 coconuts per day, earning around 400,000 Vietnamese dong. Even those who process fewer coconuts can still earn a few hundred thousand dong per day.
**Recommended Itinerary and Visitor Tips**
Trang recommends that visitors embark on a day-long journey to explore the local craft villages, where they can witness coconut husking, desiccation, and candy-making processes. Subsequently, visitors can proceed to Thành Long Islet to pay their respects at the tomb of Admiral Thủy Tướng and enjoy a traditional lunch at a local household, featuring dishes such as sour soup with snakehead fish, roasted shrimp with coconut, and backyard chicken porridge.
Additionally, travelers are encouraged to visit the “Special National Monument” of Đồng Khởi to delve into the history of the Đồng Khởi uprising in the 1960s, situated in Mỏ Cày Nam District, to retrace the roots of the national liberation movement.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, the Bến Tre coconut floating market on Thom River offers an immersive cultural and economic experience, showcasing the province’s rich heritage and agricultural prowess. Whether marveling at the vibrant trading activities or delving into the local history and cuisine, visitors are guaranteed an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Mekong Delta. From coconut-infused delicacies to intricately crafted handicrafts, the coconut floating market exemplifies the essence of Bến Tre’s cultural landscape, inviting travelers to partake in its timeless traditions and vibrant spirit.