Ha Long Bay, located northeast of Vietnam, is one of the most popular destinations for both local and foreign tourists. Recognized as one of the world's new seven wonders of nature, this haven of majestic landscapes and water forms is a must-see.
Aside from its world-class natural beauty, it's just 2-3 hours from Hanoi so you could just pack an overnight bag for a weekend getaway.
PLACES
The most frequented activity is the island cruise which can last from a day to a couple of days. The price range is from US$200 to $400 depending on the type of accommodation and duration but there are cheaper options for day tour which includes kayaking and caving. I only paid around $25 for day trip with a full course meal and a 4-hour tour including the cave tour. Kayaking was paid separately and there was no guide. It was really short yet sweet.
If you're a beach bum or an adventure buff, there are also other choices for you. One of the major attractions you could visit is the Sun World Ha Long Complex which actually has a waterpark with some exciting yet child-friendly rides.
The Queen Cable Car is another must-try being a Guinness World record holder as the cabin with the largest capacity that runs from Bai Chay district, crossing over the karst formations of Ha Long Bay to Ba Deo Hill. Although the operating hours are currently affected by this covid situation, they still open regularly on weekends.
ACCOMMODATION
Along with Ha Long Bay's popularity are great opportunities for local business focused on providing relatively economical accommodation choices for tourists. I'd suggest you book online for more reasonable prices, reviews and reservations. I stayed in a vibrant community of Bai Chay district with a French-inspired ambiance.
TRANSPORTATION
Like any other nearby provinces of Hanoi, Ha Long can be easily reached by bus or limousine. Buses are the cheaper option but it can actually run for 4 hours or more. There are many travel agencies and hotels that can help you book a seat in a limousine. This is mostly preferred because of its shorter travel time. If you're staying in a hotel, the best thing to do is to ask help from the staff.
Locals are always very accommodating especially if they're doing business with you. They value customer service and their business so much that they would treat you like family. Well, that's based on my experience. 😋
Here's a short video, not a vlog 😋, of my Ha Long Bay trip
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