I'm writing from the most beautiful and incredible place in the world that I have ever seen during my 15-year career as a travel writer in more than 70 countries. I'm writing to you from Ha Long Bay in Vietnam.
There is a saying that if you have not visited Ha Long Bay you have not yet been to Vietnam. I say that if you have not visited Ha Long Bay you have not yet seen the most beautiful place in the world.
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 Ha Long City and the wonderful Ha Long Bay.
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. Ha Long Bay still retains its historical and culture values.
The guide told me that Ha Long Bay has been twice recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1994 and 2000, and also that Ha Long Bay is in second place in the worldwide competition of the World’s Seven Natural Wonders. I told him that before all, God has given the Vietnamese people this wonder for their kindness.
Ha Long 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.
And what about the important question of where to sleep? Syrena Cruises and other cruises are offering wonderful programs. A luxury cruise from the harbor and across Ha Long Bay, has 34 luxury cabins and suites each with a balcony, as well as restaurants and a meeting room on the 3rd deck. 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, Water Music, a circus performance by dolphins, sea lions, crocodiles, and much more.
The experience of visiting Ha Long 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 Ha Long 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. You will be booking your trip in no time.