🌏 Halong Travel Guide

🏙️ City Introduction

Ha Long City is located in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, approximately 160 kilometers from Hanoi. Its most famous attraction is Ha Long Bay , home to thousands of limestone islands and breathtaking scenery. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most tourists depart from Hanoi for day trips or two-day, one-night cruises to experience the bay's iconic beauty.

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📍 Must-visit tourist hotspots

1. Ha Long Bay

• A World Heritage Site, it has over 1,600 limestone islands.
• Best way: Take a cruise and enjoy sightseeing, kayaking, swimming and other activities.
• Must-see attractions:
  • Thien Cung Cave : a wonder of stalactites.
  • Sung Sot Cave : The largest and most spectacular limestone cave.
  • Titop Island : Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the entire bay.

2. Sun World Ha Long Complex

• It combines theme park, beach park and cable car viewing.
• Suitable for tourists with children or those who like exciting rides.

3. Ha Long Night Market

• Selling souvenirs and seafood snacks.
• The night is the busiest, perfect for strolling and buying souvenirs.

4. Bai Tu Long Bay

• Compared to Halong Bay, it is less crowded and quieter, but the scenery is equally magnificent.
• Suitable for tourists who want to avoid the crowds.

5. Quang Ninh Museum

• The black glass building has a strong sense of design.
• Showcasing local history, culture and natural resources.

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🍜 Must-eat food in Halong

1. Seafood

• Halong is close to the sea, so fresh seafood is a must-try: crabs, lobsters, sea urchins, and flower crabs.
• Special recommendation: Steamed Crab Vermicelli (Miến Xào Cua) .

2. Cuttlefish Cake (Chả Mực Hạ Long)

• A Halong specialty! Fresh cuttlefish is battered and deep-fried into pancakes.
• Crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, it is usually served with glutinous rice or bread.

3. Stir-fried conch with garlic (Ốc Xào Tỏi)

• Stir-fried conch with minced garlic and chili peppers is very tasty.

4. Vietnamese Spring Rolls (Nem Rán / Chả Giò)

• The local version has a lighter flavor and is often found in restaurants or on board ships.

5. Local beer + seafood barbecue

• Sitting in a seaside restaurant at night, eating barbecue and drinking beer, it's super chill.

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🚖 Halong Transportation Guide

1. From Hanoi to Halong

• Private car/charter : about 2.5-3 hours, the most convenient and comfortable.
• Limousine Bus : A common choice, reasonably priced, and the journey takes about 3 hours.
• Train : There are few trains and the journey takes a long time, so it is not recommended.
• Direct flights : Halong has Van Don International Airport, but flights are limited.

2. City transportation

• Grab App : It’s convenient to call a ride.
• Taxis : Common in the city.
• Bicycle/motorcycle rental : suitable for exploring nearby attractions on your own.

3. Visit Halong Bay

• Day cruise : suitable for travelers with limited time.
• Two-day and one-night cruise/three-day and two-night cruise : recommended, you can watch the sunrise, go squid fishing at night, and kayak, which is a more complete experience.

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🌟 A friendly reminder from the editor

• Best travel season : October to May when the weather is dry and cool, and the view is the best; June to September is summer when the weather is hot but suitable for water play.
• Cruise options : Prices vary greatly, ranging from affordable to luxurious, so it is recommended to book in advance.
• Sunscreen + mosquito repellent : Halong Bay has strong sunlight and mosquitoes, so remember to be prepared.
• Bring your swimsuit : Many tours include swimming or kayaking.
• Tipping culture : Waiters and tour guides on board usually expect tips, so remember to prepare a small amount of cash.

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✨ Summary:
Ha Long is a must-visit destination in northern Vietnam, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, delicious seafood, and a truly memorable cruise experience . Whether you choose a day trip or a two-day, one-night cruise, you'll be captivated by the azure sea, blue sky, and unique rock formations. Enjoy the sunset while dining on seafood – it's truly a steal!

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🛳️Halong Bay 2-day and 1-night cruise

📌 Day 1: Hanoi → Halong Bay | Departure

• morning

  • Depart from your Hanoi hotel (usually the cruise company will arrange a transfer, approximately 2.5–3 hours drive).
  • Arrive at Halong Pier and complete boarding procedures.

• noon

  • Enjoy seafood lunch on board before the cruise begins its journey into Halong Bay.
  • Enjoy your meal while admiring the stunning limestone scenery outside the boat.

• afternoon

  • [Sung Sot Cave] Visit the magnificent stalactite cave.
  • [Titop Island] Climb to the top to overlook the entire bay and swim on the beach.
  • Or arrange a kayak/boat to explore the limestone caves and small bays.

• evening

  • Return to the cruise ship and enjoy the sunset happy hour , sipping a cocktail on the deck while watching the sunset.
  • Cooking Demonstration: Learn to make Vietnamese spring rolls.

• night

  • Enjoy a sumptuous seafood dinner on board.
  • Nighttime Activities:
    • Night squid fishing (fun and unique).
    • Or you can sit on the deck, enjoy the sea breeze, drink beer and watch the stars.

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📌 Day 2: Halong Bay at Dawn | Return

• early morning

  • Get up early to attend Tai Chi class on the deck and watch the sunrise while doing it.
  • Or just grab a cup of coffee, chill and enjoy the morning light.

• breakfast

  • Simple buffet breakfast (bread, porridge, coffee, tea).

• morning

  • Visit Thien Cung Cave or other limestone caves by boat.
  • Rest and take photos on the last deck.

• noon

  • Enjoy brunch.
  • Cruise back to Halong Pier → Transfer back to Hanoi by private car.

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🌟 A friendly reminder from the editor

• What should I bring? A light backpack, swimsuit, sunscreen, and flip-flops. Larger items can be left at your hotel in Hanoi.
• Cruise options :
  • Affordable: Simple facilities, suitable for backpackers.
  • Mid-to-high-end: The rooms are comfortable, have balconies, and the food is more refined.
  • Luxury: Five-star cruise ship, spa, private balcony, infinity pool.
• Tipping culture : Tour guides and crew members usually expect tips, about 3-5 USD per person per night.
• Weather Note : June to September is summer, which is suitable for water play, but there are occasional heavy rains; October to May has cooler weather and clearer views.

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✨ Summary:
A two-day, one-night cruise in Halong Bay offers a truly exceptional value, combining limestone wonders, caving, kayaking, sunset dinner, night squid fishing, and sunrise Tai Chi . Whether you're a couple, family, or group, you'll find it worth the price!