Day 6 was a blast—it was Mekong Delta day! We started with a two-hour bus ride to Bến Tre province, where I took in the stunning countryside, bonded more with the incredible UEF students, and laughed along to some hilariously off-key karaoke. As the city faded behind us, the shift from urban to rural became more noticeable. I saw vast rice fields tended by just a handful of farmers, and scattered among them were brightly colored tombs and buildings in shades such as teal and orange, both unexpected and beautiful.

When we arrived at the port, we boarded a boat to a nearby island. There, we tried honey tea and dried bananas, and while some brave friends held some snakes, I stayed at a safe distance, admiring the moment. We then visited a coconut candy workshop where we saw the production process up close, from sticky start to sweet finish. After that, we rode in horse-drawn wagons, clip-clopping through the village to a shaded pavilion. There, we listened to traditional Vietnamese music and enjoyed a refreshing spread of tropical fruits. The highlight of the day was gliding down the narrow channels of the Mekong in smaller rowboats, waving at friendly locals and passing by coconut, mango, and more types of trees.

Throughout all of these experiences, it became clear just how much the island depends on tourism for income. Every stop, from the tea and candy tasting to the music, boat rides, and even the park where we had lunch, was centered around visitors. The park even featured attractions such as inflatable water balls and a station to feed alligators, emphasizing how deeply rooted tourism is in the local economy. With the rainy season approaching and tourist traffic expected to drop, I can’t help but wonder how the community adjusts during slower seasons. Do they turn to alternative sources of income, or simply weather the dip? Moreover, today was a fun adventure that provided a glimpse into the livelihoods of people living outside the city.