Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most stunning attrations – there is no way to describe Halong Bay other than as purely breathtaking. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder of the world, the bay features thousands of limestone islands and cliffs emerging from the turquoise sea.
There is a saying that if you have not visited Halong Bay you have not yet been to Vietnam. I say that if you have not visited Halong Bay you have not yet seen the most beautiful place in the world. Some 180 km from Hanoi City, towards the northeast, it takes around 4 hours by bus due to the speed limit, and then you will arrive to Halong City and the wonderful Halong Bay.
There are 1969 limestone islands of various shapes, sizes, and in different green and amazing colors rise above the sea level in an area of more than 1,500 square kilometers that creates this World Heritage site. Halong Bay still retains its historical and culture values.
The guide told me that Halong Bay has been twice recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1994 and 2000, and also that Halong Bay has been voted as the World’s Seven Natural Wonders. I told him that before all, God has given the Vietnamese people this wonder for their kindness.
Halong Bay is as attractive and beautiful throughout the four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Traveling on small sailboats among hundreds of limestone islands, one may visit the amazing Surprise Cave, the floating fishing village, and see how the locals live are top of the list of things to do here. On Titop Island, one may swim and relax on the beach or enjoy a kayaking program to the nearby Luon Cave and much more.
Emperor Cruises Legacy Halong (www.emperorcruises.com) and other cruises are offering wonderful programs. A luxury cruise from the harbor and across Ha Long Bay, has 10 luxury en-suites cabins with ocean views and privates balconies, as well as two restaurants, gym, lounge. Travelers may experience Asian or Western cuisine, precisely sea food, and also have a session with a massage therapist, unwind in the sauna, take a sunbath and relax on the expansive deck, experience squid fishing, movie night, and a cooking demonstration.
Other attractions during your stay in Ha Long, beside exploring Ha Long Bay itself, if to visit the Royal Park in Halong City. The experience of visiting Halong Bay is unforgettable, where you will see something that will stay in your mind and eyes for years. You will enjoy meeting Vietnamese people and tasting their delicious food, you will have fresh air all day and night, especially if you wake up early in the morning and watch the sun rise on the deck coming slowly through the islands.
Be sure not to miss visiting Halong Bay in your lifetime. Just try to watch images and videos of this stunning and marvelous place and imagine being there experiencing the beauty and kindness of Vietnamese people.
Halong Bay is understandably popular, but if you want to come here alone without other tourists, be sure to book our private charter boat to sail where you want, cruising on your own itinerary deep into the bay, exploring the caves and grottoes, heading over to Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, trekking in Cat Ba National Park, rock climbing, kayaking, and watching some of the most amazing sunsets that you’ll ever set eyes on.