Hanoi| Halong Bay Cruise

happened in November 2016

Unfamiliar with Hanoi, I opted to avail of the packaged tour for Halong Bay which is really the best option as it's very hard to communicate with the locals,  Thanks for the net and blogs for the very helpful tips I got on the best package available.  We booked through www.alovacruises.com - Go Asia Travel. We are also grateful to S for dealing with our bookings and even paid for it in advance.  What can I say? Life is really great!

the famous fighting cock formation.  A ritual is being held here, where every boat circles these formations as a good luck for the journey ahead.

We availed of the Halong Bay and Hao Lu Tam Loc tours for only US$106.00 for 2 days trip.  We only got the basic package for the Halong Bay but was surprised to learn that it was upgraded to a nicer boat and coaster without extra cost.  S is really a great negotiator.  The agent even visited her for this booking.  Great customer service indeed!

For Halong Bay, the package includes: (1) land transportation from Old Quarters to Halong Bay and return, (2) Halong Bay tour, (3) snacks and set lunch, (4) Thien Cung Cave and (5) Fishing Village boating.  There is an option for kayaking but with extra charge of US$5 per person.

Travel time is around 3-4 hrs one way.  We wake up so early for this and went to the meeting place in Nhat Duat St.  Our bus left at exactly 7AM.  By lunch time, we are already in Halong Bay.  Stop over is just a toilet break.  Bottled water was provided during the travel.

You still have to bring (1) extra food, (2) mosquito repellant, (3) water and (4) extra cash for tips and other expenses.  You also need to wear appropriate climbing clothes and shoes for the cave tour.

our ship for the day

Lunch is unexpectedly sooo good. Remember this is an upgraded package so expect less for the basic tour package.

love the fresh shrimps

I love the boat but we have to stay outside for the beautiful scenery.  The weather is not too sunny and on the verge of raining so staying outdoors is a not a problem.  However, getting a good shot is a challenge.

with my always partner in crime J

the karsts

I love the cool weather but the water doesn't smell nice though

So how's Halong Bay?  Unfortunately, we didn't go where the nicest view is.  But we are on the not so busy area.  Water is quite filty and smells bad.  It has nice stone formations though.  Sorry, but Palawan is so much better. It's just overly promoted.  Marketing is really an important factor for any tourist spot.  But let this not discourage you.  It offers a different charm plus I love our tour guide and the service they gave us.  Just look how delighted we are in the pictures.

feeling donyas

Part of the tour is going to the Heaven Cave.  It is still a 30 min hike.  The interiors look nice due to the colorful lighting installed inside.  There is also a photograher inside for VND100,000 for 3 shots.

Our last stop is the fishing village.  We enjoyed the assigned group as well.  The tour was filled with laughter from start to finish.

Japanese, Filipinos and a European

the boat house

our ever jolly boatman

Take note that you have to prepare a tip for the boatman.  VND100,000 is the usual amount but you can give generously as you please. Remember how hard life living in a boat.

Don't leave Hanoi without trying this tour.  You can also avail of the cruise for an overnight or 3 day stay.

Remember to meet new friends and gain additional memories to keep.