Embarking on a luxury cruise through Ha Long Bay with Indochina Sails, we encountered a blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural excursions, and onboard indulgences. From the comfort of our suite aboard the Indochina Sails III to the adventures on Titop Island and the Surprise Cave, this trip report from 2009 captures the essence of a timeless journey through one of Vietnam's most iconic destinations.
Our adventure commenced with a smooth drive to the cruise's embarkation point, punctuated by a brief stop at a large tourist-oriented souvenir shop. Here, my companion Jeane discovered a charming red lacquerware vase, a memento she wisely decided to purchase. Shortly after, we continued our journey, arriving at the cruise waiting area just before noon.
Originally, we were scheduled to stay in the single suite on the Valentine, a more intimate vessel with only five rooms. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, we were rebooked onto the larger Indochina Sails III. Despite the change, the cruise line's considerate gesture of offering us a suite at half price and a complimentary bottle of Chilean red wine for our inconvenience was much appreciated.
Upon boarding the ship, we were swiftly checked into our air-conditioned suite, which boasted a king-size bed, a rainforest shower, a jacuzzi bath, and a private deck. The room was also equipped with a safe and a minibar for added convenience. Our first meal, an international/Vietnamese set menu, set the tone for the culinary delights to come, with the cruise price covering all expenses except for beverages and kayaking.
The afternoon's itinerary included a visit to Titop Island, named in honor of the Soviet astronaut Gherman Titov, who visited the site with Ho Chi Minh. Despite the overcast skies, the panoramic views from the island's summit were impressive. Later, we enjoyed clearer skies while kayaking in the serene waters near Hang Doi Bat Cave, an activity that incurred an additional fee of $10 per person.
As evening approached, we savored our own cocktails before attending a food carving demonstration and a sumptuous buffet dinner. Opting for an early night, we skipped the movie showing and retired to our suite.
The following morning, we awoke early to photograph a quaint fishing village and explore the Surprise Cave, a series of three large caves illuminated by artificial lighting and equipped with steps and handrails for easy access. Our guide provided insightful commentary on the caves' history and geological features.
Our final meal on the ship was a buffet breakfast, complete with made-to-order omelets. As we prepared to disembark, the crew efficiently handled our luggage transfer, allowing us to relax on the sundeck and settle our bill. Our driver awaited us at the pier, and after expressing our gratitude to the ship's guide with a tip, we concluded our one-night, two-day cruise, which had been the perfect duration for our needs.
Reported by Craig
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, is renowned for its stunning limestone karsts and isles in various shapes and sizes. According to the Management Department of Ha Long Bay, the area receives millions of visitors annually, with a notable increase in domestic tourists in recent years. Despite its popularity, the bay's delicate ecosystem faces challenges from tourism and pollution, prompting ongoing conservation efforts.
Interestingly, a 2019 study published in the Journal of Travel & Tourism Marketing highlighted the importance of sustainable practices and the role of responsible tourism in preserving Ha Long Bay's natural beauty for future generations. As travelers continue to seek out this majestic seascape, it's crucial to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need for environmental stewardship.
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA Unveils 2012 Vietnam Travel Photo Contest
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA), a premier adventure travel company in Indochina, has initiated a captivating photo contest titled "Vietnam in your heart is…" for global travelers. This contest invites participants to submit their most memorable travel photos from Vietnam, offering a chance to win exceptional prizes including luxury cruises and exclusive tours. The contest, which runs from November 12, 2012, to January 31, 2013, aims to showcase the unique beauty and cultural richness of Vietnam through the eyes of its visitors.
Exploring the Thrills of Adventure Travel
Adventure travel is not just about scaling mountains or rafting through raging rivers; it encompasses a broad spectrum of activities that can range from the serene, such as wine tasting tours, to the extreme, like motorcycling across the Ho Chi Minh trail in Vietnam. This form of travel is about stepping out of the familiar and embracing the unknown, offering enriching experiences that differ markedly from typical vacation pursuits.
Vietnam in Top 10 Cycle Routes Recommended by National Geographic
Vietnam's scenic route from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City has been recognized as one of the top ten cycle routes globally by National Geographic. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights the route's stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and challenging terrain, making it a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts.
