Friday, March 9, 2007

Ha Long Bay in a Capsule

165 km from Hanoi to the Bai Chai bus station...Perhaps the most beautiful coastal area of Vietnam...Ha Long Bay offers some of Vietnam's most breathtaking scenery, including beautiful limestone formations, sheer edifice cliffs, huge rock arches, peaceful coves and seemingly thousands of limestone islets that rise from the sea like green plaster monsters.

Ha Long Bay (the name means "Where the Dragon Descends into the sea"), the area is frequently shrouded in a cold, drizzly fog, particularly during the winter months when, frankly, a stay in the area can be very uncomfortable one. Myths has it that an enormous beast created the bay and outcroppings as it thrashed its way toward the sea to prevent the forward progress of enemy fleets, even though two major battles were fought here in the 10th and 13th centuries.

Beautiful Chinese-type sailing junks dot the waters between the outcroppings. If you're a good negotiator like me, can get on board for lesser with English speaking guides available.

Come and experience this beautiful place and try it yourself.



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