Halong Bay is approximately a 4 hour drive from Hanoi. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and quite rightly so as it is a natural wonder consisting of some 1600 islands in a series of bays, most uninhabited. Each of the islands is topped with jungle vegetation. The topography is one of limestone rocks of various sizes and shapes rising spectacularly out of the sea.
There is no doubt that the best way to enjoy Halong Bay is to take a cruise. This can be done for one day but justice is not done to really explore the beauty of this region unless taking 2 or 3 days to so. You have a choice of three types of cruise – on a traditional junk, a first class wooden boat or a luxury boat.During your cruise (and this varies according to the chosen cruise boat) you will explore the islands, discover floating villages, go walking to the top of one of the peaks for a panoramic view of the area, sail on a sampan through lagoons and into caves and visit excellent sandy beaches with time to swim. Another enjoyment will be to watch the dramatic sunsets from your cruise boat.
What to Expect
On your maiden visit to the Big Apple, be sure to allow a minimum of three days so you can take a breath and enjoy all the city has to offer without being in transit every moment of your trip. The following will only scratch the surface of what to expect but will arm you with information to feel confident during your time in New York City.