Ha Long Bay, which is famous for its beautiful beaches, resorts, and historical heritages, was recognized as the World Natural Heritage by the UNESCO in 1994 and has attracted more and more domestic and international visitors. Situated in the north-east region of Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is a part of the Gulf of Bac Bo, and comprises Ha Long City, the township of Cam Pha and a part of the island district of Van Don. To the south-west it borders the island of Cat Ba, to the east is the sea and the mainland follow a coastline of 120 km. It stretches between the 10658 and 10722 eastern meridians and the 2045 and 2050 northern parallels.
Located in the North of Vietnam, the four distinct seasons are most evident in a year in Ha Long. You can visit Ha Long at any time of the year, among which April to October is the best time to go. The weather at this time is so cool and beautiful that it is considered the most suitable time to visit Ha Long.
Ha Long city is 170 km away from Hanoi with 3-4 hours traveling by bus. The cost for a tour from Hanoi to Ha Long isn't so expensive. Most visitors book their trip in Hanoi. The cost is included with the travel expense, accommodation, tour guiding and eating expense. Or, if you want to travel by yourself, you can catch the bus from Hanoi. There is a bus of Hoang Long Express to Ha Long every 15 minutes, which makes it more convenient for visitors.
The cost of shopping in Ha Long is generally not so expensive in comparison with other famous traveling spots. Visitors may buy clothes with a little bit higher price than in other places. However, visitors should confirm the price if you decide to buy or hire something here.
Visitors can take a cruise ship to go sightseeing around Ha Long Bay. The marvelous scene of vaporous fog and the far-away islands reflected through the pure sea water during the cruise will certainly satisfy your eyes.
A rented cruise on Ha Long Bay
Along the bank of Ha Long Bay is Bai Chay, the most famous resort in Ha Long where visitors can take a rest and go swimming. The resort is cooled by the sea-breeze all year round with an average temperature of above 20 degrees Celsius. Here, you can see the hill range slopes gently to the sea, extending by 2 km and wrapping the old pine tree row which comes between small villas by the road. A long the asphalted road you can see a strip of white sand and a green casuarina row under which sheltering small shops, place for travelers to enjoy a glass of cool water and the sea-breeze after swimming.
Bai Chay
Additionally, excursionists can also take a cruise ship to Co To island where you can dive and watch the marvelous scene of coral rows. It is the most ideal place for those who want to search a desolate area for themselves to keep a way from the crowd.
Co To island
Moreover, you can't help visiting Tuan Chau Island, the most famous tourist area in the North and the most beautiful one of the 1.969 islands in Ha Long Bay as well. Especially, this is the only island where is settled. Tuan Chau is also famous for its largest artificial beach in Vietnam with the four-kilometer white sand strip, a suitable place for outdoor activities like beach volleyball, soccer, wind-suffering, high-speech water motor, and so on. On the other hand, travelers can enjoy food in Vietnam eating and drinking garden. The garden was built in an original style, imitating the royal architect of Vietnam in 17th and 18th century.
Tuan Chau island
Ha Long has a huge cave system among which every cave has its own beauty and own story. You won't be able to believe in your eyes when visiting Luon cave on Bo Hon Island as its stalagmites are so splendid and magnificent and in various shapes and sizes. In front of the cave is Con Rua (turtle) island, and on the right is Cong Troi (heaven gate). Beside the edge is a bow-shaped gate opening to the foot of the island.
Those who want to go to the pagodas should take sometime to visits Yen Tu relic. This is a system of pagodas, small temples and ancient-tree forest that goes along with natural sites, spreading from Do (Red) inline to Yen Tu mountain top. The beauty of Yen Tu is the combination of the imposing look of the mountain and the antique look of the temple system.
Yen Tu Mountain
You can also visit night market which is usually crowded from 9 p.m in Bai Chay to buy local souvenirs or enjoy local dishes. If you want to admire the whole city view at night, Bai Chay Bridge is really a best choice. Or you can watch Bai Chay bridge from the old ferry landing where you can also enjoy a cup of coffee and contemplate the night sea.
Beside the great cave system, Ha Long is the home for other famous beautiful spots which are waiting to be explored. Once coming here, you can never forget the marvelous time you have on this land.
