When making the journey from Ca Mau, the southern tip of the country, to U Minh Ha (lower U Minh) Forest, the largest mangrove swamp in the country, tourists may get lost in the endless white color of lau (reed) flower in the paths.

Ca Mau, the harmonious picture of forest and sea, is famous for its verdant mangrove forests and bird sanctuary, as well as the eco tourism areas of U Minh Forest and Hon Da Bac Island. However, the land here is heavily alum affected and rice is difficult to grow, resulting in a hard life for the residents.

Reed flowers provide an income for the resident. Many local households weave them into brooms to sell around the Mekong Delta. Thus, in the dry season, every yard is overwhelmed with reeds. Read the rest of this entry »