Hạ Long Bay
Translating to “Descending Dragon” in Vietnamese, Hạ Long Bay is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site home to nearly 2,000 towering limestone islands and islets draped in lush rainforest. Seeing photos online is one thing, but standing among these massive emerald monoliths in person was completely surreal. After adapting to the country’s time zone in Hà Nội, continuing our voyage aboard a bay cruise felt like stepping into a postcard. From sunrise tai chi on the top deck to sipping margaritas at sunset and listening to the ocean breeze under the moonlight in our pyjamas, every moment was an unforgettable escape.
Stay
Mon Chéri Cruise: Sailing across both Hạ Long Bay and Lan Hạ Bay, this cruise provided an incredible front-row seat to the bay's tranquil waters. Wake up early for sunrise deck sessions, unwind with evening cocktails, and enjoy a comfortable floating home base between excursions.
Activities
Kayaking in Lan Hạ Bay: Floating on deep, crystal-clear water surrounded by dramatic sea stacks was an absolute rush. We received a lightning-fast tutorial—"Look at me: paddle right, right, right... left, left, left. Okay?"—before being sent out on the open sea. Naturally, đẹp trai started panicking in the middle of the ocean, but the sheer beauty of the surrounding islets made it an unforgettable team effort!
Biking to Việt Hải Village: Pedalling from the shore into the peaceful village of Việt Hải on Cát Bà Island was a workout for my cardio, but the scenery was worth every breath. Touching down on one of the bay’s iconic islands felt special, and the views along the trail are ones I wish I could replay in slow motion forever.
Fish Massage Experience: While visiting Việt Hải Village, our group came across a basin filled with lively black fish ready for a natural foot massage. Watching everyone, especially đẹp trai, shriek, laugh, and catch their breath at the bizarre tickling sensation was one of the funniest moments of the trip!
Exploring Động Trung Trang (Trung Trang Cave): Nestled inside Cát Bà Island, this massive cave system features stunning stalactites that resemble delicate streams of water, including a central formation that looks remarkably like a dragon reaching down into the earth. Beyond Mother Nature’s art, the cave holds fascinating history: its semi-enclosed chambers once served as a naval operational headquarters and field hospital during the war, with historical artifacts like a stone bathtub still preserved inside.
Hà Nội set an incredible bar for our trip, but the serene waters of Hạ Long Bay offered the perfect balance of relaxation and outdoor adventure. Next, our journey takes us further south into Central Vietnam—a region deeply special to me, as it’s where my mom was born and raised. Follow along in the next post as we explore the royal history, rich culture, unique dishes, and family roots in Huế!
