When the rubber forest sheds its leaves

Following in the children's footsteps, I walked along the long, misty red dirt road, golden leaves glistening in the wind as they drifted down the branches. The children's clear laughter shattered the quiet atmosphere of the vast rubber forest, which was in the season of changing leaves. The golden leaves carpeted the ground beneath my feet, making me feel as if I had wandered into a dreamy realm of trees and foliage, a place only found in stories from some faraway land.

Binh Phuoc province is famous for its vast rubber plantations. The red basalt soil and suitable climate have contributed to Binh Phuoc's title as the "rubber capital." Located more than 100km from Ho Chi Minh City, the rubber forests in Binh Long town offered me a novel experience of the changing colors of nature.

Dating back to the early 20th century, in addition to planting, harvesting, supplying raw materials and services related to the rubber industry, this forest of over 10,000 hectares also plays a crucial role in cleaning the air and filtering dust from the surrounding major cities.

Every year, the leaves of the rubber trees turn yellow and then change color from around December until the end of March, when the forest is once again covered in green. During this time, the air in Binh Phuoc is cool, and early morning mist hangs in the air. The rubber trees are planted in neat rows.

Particularly in the forest, there are trails used for harvesting and transporting rubber, making movement here very easy. Along these paths, one can encounter workers hurrying to their jobs, children excitedly heading to school, or locals carrying goods to the market early in the morning to earn a living.

During the season when the rubber tree leaves turn yellow and red, the area becomes more vibrant with the footsteps of tourists and photographers.

To capture stunning photos, tourists often choose the time of day, either at dawn with the morning mist or at sunset with the sunlight streaming through. The winding roads look even more beautiful in pictures, resembling oil paintings with captivating shades of color.

Some groups of young people choose to camp in rubber forests to relax amidst the romantic scenery with their loved ones.

Another interesting aspect is that when visiting the rubber forest, tourists can sample honey produced in the natural conditions of the forest. During the honey harvesting season, each cluster of bee farms typically has dozens of workers carrying equipment to avoid bee stings, smoke machines, and hundreds of plastic containers to hold the honey as it is transported to the factory.

The vast rubber forest is the ideal destination for bee colonies. These bees feed on the sap of the rubber trees, producing honey with a pale amber color, a subtly sweet taste, and a delicate aroma. Visitors should enjoy the romantic scenery, the fresh natural environment, and sample local produce, and don't forget to buy this unique souvenir as a gift.

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