Nature’s babble

      If you’re the type that enjoys a weekend of forest, birds, flowers and burbling brooks in untouched surroundings, then Suoi Truc (Bamboo spring) in Binh Duong Province is the place to go.
Barely two hours from Ho Chi Minh City by motorbike, Suoi Truc is as familiar to courting couples from near and far as it is to local families with a penchant for picnics.
To get there, follow National Highway 13 past the Binh Phuoc crossroads to Dau Tieng Commune at the edge of Thu Dau Mot, the province’s main town. The road passes through an interminably straight rubber plantation and is dotted by the white tunics of schoolgirls on bicycles.
The wilderness experience begins here at Ho Than Tho (Lake of lament), known by the inhabitants of Binh Duong as Suoi Truc.
Not imposing like the waterfalls in the highlands, or wide like Da Lat’s famous Ho Than Tho, Suoi Truc is nestled into the shoulder of Nui Cau (Cau Mountain) at the southern end of the Truong Son Range.
Suoi Truc is surrounded by blocks of marble with strange patterns and is ideal for a family picnic or romantic rendezvous.
A sudden squall of rain is not uncommon in the wet season and gives you the opportunity of clambering under the bamboo’s protection and listening to the spring’s whisper. “Idyllic” is the word.
Suoi Truc is actually several pools and features with distinct names: First, Second and Third Pool; Giuong Da (Rock bed) and the triple-tiered waterfall known as Thac Ba Tang.
A local named Thao, who likes to frequent the area with his friends, believes the best spot is Giuong Da, which has been nicknamed “The Giant’s Bed” because of its size and spectacular, queer patterns.
To make the most out of the weekend, you can return to HCMC by a different and far more scenic route around Cau Mountain. The going is rough but it’s well worth the effort.
Step out on the open road and enjoy the vibrant life.