My first of many Travel Tips – Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is you must see it. This is easily one of the most beautiful places, in the world. Vietnam transports me to the imaginary world of Avatar. Honestly, it looks like I have arrived in the Land of Avatar. Ha, Long Bay is daunting when researching the tour options.
Learn my Travel Tips – Vietnam, Ha Long Bay.
It’s not possible to travel to Ha Long Bay without going on a tour. Therefore, for those who aren’t keen on tours (my mom and me), you have to suck it up. Secondly, trust the process since that is the only way to get there.
Ha, Long Bay is about a 4-hour drive from Hanoi on what Vietnamese call highways. To me, the roads are more like country roads. Infrastructure is still in the developing stages in some parts of the country. It’s not easy to get from one place to another. Remember it takes the time to travel. In this area, all tours are controlled by the government.
Don’t Miss Vietnam, Ha Long Bay
Romantic Travel Tips – Vietnam, Ha Long Bay
Cruises and junk boats on Ha Long Bay can vary considerably; the size and quality of the ship, the itinerary, and price. Make a point to visit Ha Long Bay.
We Think 3 Day Tours are Best
Go on a three day, two-night trip given how long it takes to get to and from Ha Long Bay. Obviously, if time is limited, it’s still worth going on the two-day, one night trip, but you will feel rushed. Be prepared for your tour or cruise to be one of the most expensive things you do in Vietnam and drinks were not included in the price. (BYOB the prices are very high for drinks, and they charge for water until my mom said, “Cut that out, no way, humans need water.) Be sure to keep track of your drinks during happy hour, to avoid over charges.
Travel Tips – Vietnam, Ha Long Bay Travel Agents
While there are loads of travel agents in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, we decided to hit the easy button and book through our hotel. They had a standard, deluxe, and luxury cruise options and the tour bus would pick you up and drop you off right at your hotel.
Hostels and Hotels
Most hostels and hotels also have this option, and it makes it convenient for travelers. We chose a deluxe cruise because you get what you pay for when it comes to the cruises. If you prefer nicer rooms and a higher-quality boat, then it is worth paying extra. I will say, the food was not fantastic. The fried seafood seemed like a bad use of the fresh food. But, you can always rely on white rice if nothing looks particularly appetizing. Needless to say, I was happy to have brought some power bars and snacks as backup options.
Tours Planning and Timing
It is worth noting that going on a Vietnam, Ha Long Bay tour, be prepared to stick to the time and schedule with very little wiggle room. Scheduling with military precision seems to be their specialty. They want to make sure you are engaged and doing something every minute of your trip, which I respect, but let’s be honest, it’s not always necessary or welcome when you are being rushed from place to place because they want to make sure you see a particular island or whatnot.
The next tour group leader ushered in more people as soon as one tour boat left the island. This was repeated at the cave. It was an assembly line of people. On the third day, we opted just to chill on the sun deck for the remaining time on the cruise instead of kayaking and to see another cave, and I had no regrets wi.th my choice
Mountains
The limestone mountains and jade water are beyond beautiful. Additionally, blessed with great weather the entire cruise, the trip was spectacular. The sunset on the first night was magical and was worth the 400 footsteps it takes to get the top of Ti Top Island. We kayaked through the mountains, swam in the bay, explored the most popular caves, and saw wild monkeys. It was like being transported to another world.
Sunset in the Land of the Avatar
Dramatic Vietnam, Ha Long Bay
Dusk Vietnam, Ha Long Bay
The sunset shows why I liked it so much there. Don’t miss Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
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