Why Halong Bay in Vietnam Is a Spectacular Experience

With its fascinating limestone pillars atop emerald waters, Halong Bay is there to be cruised. The sunset and sunrise in the bay is one of the most spectacular I have ever seen. This place deserves its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site

Halong Bay. Copyright: aesta1

At the present rate of expansion, UNESCO heritage sites will soon cover every inch of earth and sea known to humans.

The recognition often shows more political necessity than visual or historic impact but Halong Bay will be a treasure even if we've never heard of UNESCO.

Emeraude Cruise in Halong Bay
There are so many ways to view this amazing piece of geography but the best is to be ensconced on the 4 deck of the vintage mini-liner, the Emeraude.

The Emeraude. Copyright: aesta1

The hills like jagged dragon's teeth tower over this piece of the Gulf of Tonkin and create a feeling of being in another world that shifts and morphs as the sunlight plays with the shadows and reflections on the water.

Halong Bay. Copyright: aesta1

Tiny fishing row boats vie for space with a mix of tourist craft most primped up to look like someone's image of a junk even up to strange looking sails that are more batten than cloth.

Boat in Halong Bay. Copyright: aesta1

From the early morning mist to a late evening sunset, this dance of the Halong Bay navy keeps you riveted to the sides of the ship as the tortured seascape drifts by.

Karst may be a word that means something to geographers but to tourists, this fairy tale setting is more a dream from a Science fiction love story.

Cruising Halong Bay. Copyright: aesta1

Visit to Halong Bay Caves

The visit to Halong Bay Caves is an amazing experience. We were lucky we went when he weather was nice so the walk up and down the cave was not slippery.

Sung Sot is one huge cave and there are other caves around in Halong Bay as well.

Aside from Sung Sot (Surprise Cave) visits are also made to Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace), Dau Go (Wood Tip) and Trinh Nu (Virgin Grotto). In fact, one of the best experiences is to dine in one of these caves. Various cruises in Halong Bay organize this dinner for their guests. Ask before you book.

Halong Bay Caves Pictures

Halong Bay Cave 1. Source: aesta1

Halong Bay Cave 2. Source: aesta1

Halong Bay Cave 3. Source: aesta1

Halong Bay Cave 4. Source: aesta1