Should your cruise around the Far East visit Vietnam then there is a good chance you’ll end up spending some time in Halong Bay – and it isn’t hard to see way.
Granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status, Halong Bay sits in Quang Ninh Province on the north-eastern coast and is one of he most scenic destinations you can visit anywhere in the country.
Accessed from the nearby port of Cai Lan, Halong Bay is famous throughout the world for its scenic beauty and is one of the most recognisable locations in Vietnam.
The network of islands and limestone karsts that are spread across the bay provide a stunning back drop for a cruise on a traditional Vietnamese boat, whilst you can also spend some time exploring some of the natural caves that been carved from the rocks in the surrounding area.
They include Thien Cung Grotto, or the Heavenly Cave, on the island of Dau Go and Sung Sot Cave on the island of Bo Hon – which is arguably the most famous in the region.
Another unique experience could be to visit one of the floating villages that are to be found within the bay, where local fisherman made their homes on the water.
There are also a number of beaches surrounding Halong Bay for those who simply want to relax and take in the beauty of the area, whilst you can also dine on traditional Vietnamese cuisine with the most dramatic of backdrops in one of the local restaurants.
Anyone who elects to book a cruise to Halong Bay may also have the opportunity to head inland to visit the capital city Hanoi.
Here, there are a huge array of different attractions that include the resting place of former leader Ho Chi Minh, the One Pillar Pagoda Buddhist temple, the Flag Tower of Hanoi and the Presidential Palace.
There are also various museums that help to tell the story of Vietnam through the ages, including the National Museum of Vietnamese History and one in the remains of Hỏa Lò Prison that is focused on the Vietnam War.