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

One of the most visited tourist spots in Sapa is the Fansipan Peak which is accessible by cable car and train. Adventure buffs could also go on a hike to and fro the peak but this requires 1-4 days of walking and camping with a guide. On this note, not everyone could qualify to do this adventure as this require much stamina to endure the physical demands of this activity as the trail could be difficult. There is also a need to get a permit for executing such activity and to hire a guide to keep you on track safe and sound. Many companies offer this service and they would often process all necessary documents for you along with hiking necessities included in your tour package. 

Fansipan Peak

If you're not a fan of strenuous activities, there is also an option available even to kids and elderly. The peak can be reaached through two train rides, one being optional, and a cable car ride. The cable car ride would probably take a chunk of your travel budget as it costs VND750,000 /$32. The first train that connects the cable car station and the Sun Plaza costs VND 100,000 / $3 to and fro. 

The topmost part of Fansipan Mountain can either be reached by a short train ride for VND 75,000 / $3 or by climbing up the stairs. The staircase can be tough and exhausting especially for those with health conditions. The sea of clouds can also be seen as you go out of the cable car station but the iconic Fansipan obelisk can only be found at the peak. 

Note that you couldn't get on the train down to the cable car station from the peak so there's no other way down but through the stairs which can be steep. 

Buying tickets to Fansipan doesn't really require advanced booking. Access to Fansipan peak includes cable car tickets, lunch buffet and a train ticket as add-on. Tickets can be bought at your hotel or at Sun Plaza building, the famous landmark of Sapa town. You also embark your five-minute train ride at the same building then transfer to the cable car station  for the exciting 20-minute drift. You will be listening to a recording of how the resort came to be whilst your vehicle is hovering over amazing landscapes and thick foliages. 

the only coffee shop around the area | Fansipan

The whole Fansipan can be done in less than half a day. You may kick start your summit exploration with a one-time lunch buffet at the Sun Plaza or vice versa. The restaurant is open from 10AM to 2PM. This is already included as you purchase a cable car ticket. If you feel a little famished as you explore the place, there is one coffee shop near the peak and a snack area with limited options at the cable car station. Bringing your own drink won't hurt and would even be recommended since the air could get very dry at the top. 

the sea of clouds at the Fansipan Peak

The best time to go there would be during the dry months, October to May. These months would have bearable weather conditions both for hiking and exploration. However, you still have to check for the weather forecast. Rainy days may spoil the view. Also, extremely cold days in December could cause too much fog around the peak that you may experience zero visibility. 

You may also check out other information about getting to Sapa town and attractions nearby Click here.