Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is one of the most recognizable places in the world. The rock formations jutting out of the bay’s waters are unique and picturesque. Ha Long’s many scenes hold near monopoly when it comes to postcard images. It is possible to reach the bay from Ha Noi in about 4 hours. Tourist companies run cruises almost constantly throughout the bay with those that observe the sunset being the most popular. Though the views are sublime, hitching a ride on a boat crowded with other tourists can be a noisy and sterile experience. There are plenty of other ways to enjoy the bay. This can truly be a great experience for an independent traveler.

Though the city of Hai Phong is nearby (1 hour), Ha Long has a few accommodations worth checking into. It is possible to literally live on the bay. One of the larger islands, Cat Ba, has several accommodations. Perhaps the best bet is to stay on the water itself. Junks offer cruises through the bay and accommodations, which can range from spartan to luxurious. Most of these tours include meals, and stops on some of the bay’s larger islands. Unfortunately, at the lower end of the price range, quality can vary drastically. Ask to see the boat before booking.

Kayaking tours are another option. These allow you to get up close to some of the islands. Some agencies offer eco friendly tours that showcase some of the hidden natural wonders of Ha Long. In general, the rule is the smaller the boat, the more individual the experience. For that reason, Kayaking is a good option, though those who do not wish to tax their arm muscles can find a small, locally owned boat to cruise around the bay on. Though overnights are usually not an option, getting a tailor-made tour at a reasonable price (should be worked out before you step aboard) makes the small boat option a viable one.

Aside from Cat Ba, there are numerous smaller islands with nice beaches. It is possible to land on some of these places. Though there are no “undiscovered beached” per se, your visit might be days or weeks removed from anyone else’s.

Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. However, there are ample opportunities to escape the crowds and exploring the bay. Whether you are seeking the views you have seen on postcards or the solitude of a secluded beach, it can all be found in Ha Long Bay.