Ha Long Bay means "Descending Dragon Bay" in Vietnamese. Many stories and legends are told about its formation. What is obvious to the visitor is that it is a beautiful place. UNESCO has designated it as a World Heritage site. One might even call it a "Wonder". There are thousands of limestone karats ascending from the water. Some date back 20 million years. 1,600 islands and islets fill the Gulf of Tonkin and caves are tucked into the landscape. When you arrive in Ha Long you will have to transport yourself out to Bai Chay where the very impressive pier extends along the waterway. A skiff takes you out to a junk which is a floating hotel. There are many of these junks available but it pays to do your homework in choosing your accommodations. The junk will take you out into the bay where you will experience the beauty of this mythical place. There will also have a variety of activities planned for you to participate in: cave exploration, kayaking through the inlets, swimming at Titop Island and if you are lucky, a cooking lesson in Vietnamese foods on board. There is Tai Chi in the morning and cocktails at night. The food is delicious and you will share a table with other travelers, so the conversations can be lively. Over time, the mangroves and seagrass in Ha Long Bay have been cut back and fuel and oil from the boats have leaked into the waterways. These pollutants and the human waste and carbon dioxide from the visitors on the boats has caused concern. There are four fishing villages in the Gulf and these towns of floating houses rely on the fish and mussels for their livelihood. UNESCO is hoping that a balance can be achieved between man and environment.
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