Hanoi trip (Day 3)

Continuing on Day 3 and 4 was to Halong Bay. Jo Anne, Han San, Pixie and I spent two days one night away from the hustle and bustle of the Old Quarter at Halong Bay whilst Leng Sim and Elaine had decided to trail the terraced, rice paddy mountains in Sapa.

“Ha Long” which literally translated as "Bay of Descending Dragons" is located in the Northeast of Vietnam covering an area of 1,500 square km. With more than a thousand limestone peaks rising up from its crystalline emerald waters, this area is rightly viewed as one of the natural wonders of Vietnam. In December 1994, the bay was listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Now back to the trip. We departed from our hotel for Halong Bay which was approximately four hours away. Upon arrival at Halong Tourist Wharf (approximately midday), we were transferred to our refurbished wooden Chinese style sailing junk that looks like the below.

The twin cabin was pretty decent and clean with ensuite tiled bathroom.

Once we had settled in, we were served with lunch onboard while the junk cruised to our first destination, Dong Thien Cung (Heavenly Residence Grotto). Unfortunately, our local tour guide left us to explore the limestone cave on our own.

Exiting from the cave, it leads to a beautiful view of the landing jetty to Dong Thien Cung.

After Dong Thien Cung, we continue to cruise through the awesome limestone karsts and islands of various sizes and shapes of Halong Bay. Thanks to Han San tips and guidance, these beautiful photos were taken from the top deck of the junk.

Some model photos of me with the great scenery taken by Han San.. =)

And we also get to enjoy the sunset which was very beautiful. Looks like National Geographic photos huh? ;)

Our junk weigh its anchor in the heart of the bay approximately 7pm and we took the opportunity for a dip in the water. Dinner was served subsequently and we retired for the day after about an hour enjoying the cool breeze at the top of the sun deck.