Something EVERYONE does when in Vietnam is a cruise around Halong bay, one of the 'New 7 Wonders of the World'. The Vietnamese claim that Halong Bay was created when a dragon rushed down from the mountains, carving its way through rocks before jumping into the sea, flooding the paths he had left behind and leaving only the tops of the limestone karsts visible.
Unfortunately the only way to see Halong Bay is through a tour booked in Hanoi, it can't be done independly unless one charters a whole boat. This and its popularity means cruises are touristy, the bay is crowded and it is almost impossible to find a reputable cruise company. Internet forums are packed witheih horror stories of leaking boats, food with cockroaches and stolen belongings. The trouble is that if you avoid the budget tours ($45) and splash out ($90), you often end up on the same boat as everyone who paid the budget price. Charlotte and I paid ($60) for four meals, cave kayaking, squid fishing, a cooking demonstration, a tour of the 'Surprising Amazing Cave' and swimming at a beach.
Unfortunately the only way to see Halong Bay is through a tour booked in Hanoi, it can't be done independly unless one charters a whole boat. This and its popularity means cruises are touristy, the bay is crowded and it is almost impossible to find a reputable cruise company. Internet forums are packed witheih horror stories of leaking boats, food with cockroaches and stolen belongings. The trouble is that if you avoid the budget tours ($45) and splash out ($90), you often end up on the same boat as everyone who paid the budget price. Charlotte and I paid ($60) for four meals, cave kayaking, squid fishing, a cooking demonstration, a tour of the 'Surprising Amazing Cave' and swimming at a beach.
Above: Artificially lit and paved floored 'Surprising Amazing Cave', named by the French because it has three chambers (the second surprises, the third amazes)
Above: Fisher woman from the local floating village
Above: Floating shop
We get to kayak, although not in a cave, and we are on a boat with a couple who had paid for 'luxury' (we paid for 'superior') so they're not happy. Our tour guide 'My name is Tong but you can call me by my nickname which is.... Jeremy' has excellent English but a hilarious accent. he is very rude, probably unintentionally, saying things like 'Get on the boat and get inside! Quickly!' as I struggle with my backpack. Overall the trip is alright, and I manage to get $5 back for the lack of cave kayaking. The scenery is without a doubt the best bit, and I would love to come back and actually charter my own boat.
Hi Immy
ReplyDeleteYou seem to be having an absolutely wonderful time. I am very jealous and wish that I had the chance to do all this when I was young. I am loving your blogs and look forward to more of your adventures.
Lots of love,
Uncle Tim