"Ha Long" is literally translated as "Bay of
Descending Dragons." Prior to the 19th century, this name was not
recorded in any document or archive. When mentioning the present-day
Quang Ninh Sea or Ha Long Bay, old historical books often referred to
them by the names of An Bang, Luc Thuy or Van Don. Not until the late
19th century did the name of Ha Long Bay appear on a French Marine Map.
The Hai Phong News, a French newspaper of the time, had an article,
Dragon appears on Ha Long Bay, reporting the following story: In 1898 a
sub-lieutenant named Lagredin, captaining the Avalanse reported seeing
a huge sea snake on Ha Long Bay. This was also witnessed by many of the
crews. Thus emerged the European image of the Asian dragon. Whether
this appearance of a strange animal looking like a dragon resulted the
name of Ha Long Bay is not known.
Day 1 : Ha Long – Lan Ha ( Lunch , Dinner )
Depart
Hanoi at 8am for Halong (three and a half hours by road). Enjoy a
seafood lunch while cruising around the bay amid some of Vietnam’s most
dramatic natural scenery. Discover the Suprising Caves – the most
impressive caves in the limestone mountains. Visit the floating
villages. Sail on to Lan Ha Bay, stopping off to go kayaking, swimming
and snorkeling in the emerald water. Paddle to Monkey Island if you’re
feeling really energetic. Then enjoy a fresh seafood dinner whilst
admiring the spectacular sunset. Overnight on junk.
Day 2 : Bai Tu Long – Ha Long – Tuan Chau ( Breakfast, Lunch )
After
breakfast, cruise to Bai Tu Long. Sunbathe on the top deck, taking
pictures of Van Gia fish farm, Dinh Huong Mount, Fighting Cock Mount,
etc. One more stop to go kayaking and swim around the Hidden Cave.
Lunch at local restaurant in Halong - a new international tourism &
recreation complex - then take the bus back to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi
at around 5pm. End of services.
This tour can be customized as you wish
* A/c van transfer to/from Ha Long
* English speaking tour guide
* Entrance fee
* Meals as indicated in the program (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
* Accommodation on Twin share basis in private A/c cabin (Imperial Junk)
* Double kayaking paddle
* Travel insurance
* Drinks & other meals not mentioned in the program.