Ha Long Bay Travel and Tourism Guide

Ha Long Bay (Vịnh Hạ Long) is a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site located a few hours drive from Hanoi. The translation of the name means, "Bay of the Descending Dragon." Set in the Gulf of Tonkin, the clear emerald waters are dotted with approximately 3,000 limestone islands. The Vietnamese believed the islands were formed to protect the country from the invading Chinese navy. A family of dragons were sent by the gods to help defend the land by spitting out jewels and jade. The jewels and jade were then turned into these islands, when linked, formed a barrier.

Several of the islands have enormous caves filled with large, numerous stalactities and stalagmites. A couple of the islands are large enough to support permanent human habitation; while some of the other islands support floating fishing villages. Some of the smaller islands have wonderful beaches. Many of the islands have been named by the locals, usually by an interpretation of the unusual shapes.

If one plans to visit Ha Long Bay, overnight and day cruises can be booked through any of the junks that operate out of the bay. However, booking ahead is strongly advised.