There is a saying that if you have not visited Halong Bay you have not yet been to Vietnam. However, I say that if you have not visited Halong Bay, you have not yet seen one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Halong Bay was 2 time recognized by UNESCO. It was also named as one of New Seven Natural Wonders of the world in 2012. Therefore, Ha Long Bay is a member of the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World.
“HẠ LONG”
Halong Bay (or “Hạ Long” in Vietnamese) located in the Gulf of Tonkin, within Quang Ninh Province, is 165 km from Hanoi to the Northeast. Covering an area of 43,400 ha and including over 1600 islands and islets, most of which are uninhabitated and unaffected by humans, it forms a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars and is an ideal model of a mature Karst landscape developed during a warm and wet tropical climate. The property’s exceptional scenic beauty is complemented by its great biological interest.
History
The discovery of numerous stone artifacts provided evidence of the Hoabinhian culture that flourished some 10,000 years ago, and there is also evidence for a specific Halong culture. As late as the 19th century the bay was used by pirates. However, in the 20th century human occupation of the islands in Halong Bay was relatively limited. There is a substantial population along the coastline that relies on the bay for shipping and fishing.
In Vietnamese, Halong means “descending dragon”. Dragons play a prominent role in Vietnamese culture. The most popular legend has it that one such creature and her children descended from heaven to defend the Viet people from invaders, spraying fire and emeralds or jade. She and her children then stayed on Earth.
The jewels eventually formed towering limestone formations, and over millennia, their protective crags and jagged edges evolved into the backdrop of green islands, towers, and water relished by visitors.
The beauty of The World’s Natural Wonder
Halong Bay is a paradise for photographers as each of its rock formations is unique to itself. JPTraveltime offer tourists tour parkages with plenty of stops and each is a guaranteed memorable one. Please click here for our tours in Halong Bay which depart in Hanoi.
Some of the most popular activities in Halong Bay are swimming, fishing, kayaking, trekking and spending a night on board. Though many new hotels are being built on the islands, experienced visitors recommend newcomers to spend at least one night on board a boat. Pick the boat/accommodation that suits your style and budget. You will then be able to admire the bay closer up and in quite a special way. It is truly amazing for active visitors.
In addition, the best time to go is from March to May or September to November. Those are generally good times to visit Vietnam to avoid the extreme heat. Vietnamese summers bring monsoons, and winter can be cloudy and cool (10 – 22 degrees C).
2 Times of recognition by UNESCO
Halong Bay was first listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, in recognition of its outstanding, universal aesthetic value. In 2000 the World Heritage Committee additionally recognized Halong Bay for its outstanding geological and geomorphological value, and its World Heritage Listing was updated.
Finally, hope you have a feeling about Halong Bay after this article. Do not miss this destination in your journey to Vietnam. If you have any questions about Halong Bay, please leave it in the comment section below. See you in the next article!
(Justin Ngoc Pham)
