Halong Bay
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Just three hours outside Hanoi, Halong Bay offers a unique travel experience with magnificent islands and rock formations (nearly 2000 of them) and the opportunity to spend a relaxing night on one of the countless, classic Chinese junk boats or the superb Emeraude colonial cruise ship.
What to see & do
For those willing to splurge a bit (though still cheap compared to Western cruise prices), the Emeraude vessel is the premier way to experience Halong Bay. A replica of a 19th century French steamship which plied the waters of what was then known as the Gulf of Tonkin, the Emeraude offers its guests old-style luxury and a nice route through the various highlights of Halong Bay. An evening aboard with the classic French movie “Indochina” playing as ship lies on the bay’s shimmering waters is truly something to remember.
There are several huge caves within the islands, and you can catch a birds-eye view of the whole area from the top of Titov Island – after the long hike to the top of the latter, you’ll be glad to see a couple of vendors selling refreshments! The island’s name actually comes from an interesting moment: Ho Chi Minh himself visited it along with a Soviet cosmonaut named Titov. It got its name from the friendship at the time between the two Communist countries.
Generally speaking, a cruise in Halong Bay is a time to relax, take in mystic scenery, and socialize with your fellow travelers. Many of the rock formations have interesting stories attached to them and it is well worth having a good local guide explain these things at your leisure. Some packages also allow for a stop-over on Cat Ba Island, the largest in the bay and the only place with overnight accommodation available (in the form of several new hotels).
Getting around
Getting from Hanoi to Halong Bay usually involves a van chartered by your cruise organizer to Haiphong, then boarding your ship. Even though the distance is not very long and the road is good, Vietnamese drivers really do respect the 60kph intercity speed limit! As such, 2.5-3 hours is the norm for reaching Haiphong. Alternately, depending on your budget, you can rent your own car, take a chartered helicopter, or make use of a tourist bus.
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