Ha Long Bay: The stone forest and the sound of oars in Guilin on the sea

Ha Long Bay is known as the "Guilin of the Sea," with over three thousand limestone islands floating on the emerald waters. Four days and three nights, cruise by boat, listening to the sound of Vietnamese oars and lights between peaks and caves.

From Hanoi, traveling three hours east to Ha Long Bay, when the boat sails out of the breakwater, countless limestone peaks rise from the sea like bamboo shoots, shrouded in mist like flowing ink paintings. This is the wonder listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spending a night on a cruise boat is the most recommended way to enjoy it. During the day, you can watch the reflections of peaks and fishing rafts from the deck; At dusk, watch the sunset paint the sea gold; At night, anchor in the sheltered bay, where only boat lights and starlight remain, so quiet you can hear the waves crashing against the boat.

Kayak deep into the forested peaks, or climb Paradise Island for a panoramic view. Even more delightful are the sea caves like Surprise Cave, where stalactites shine bizarrely under colorful lights, creating a magical connection between sea and caves.

If you have enough time, extend to Bai Tsz Long Bay or Cat Po Island, where there are fewer tourists and the sea is clearer. Borrowing a seafood feast in a fishing village — steamed crab or grilled shrimp with Vietnamese rice noodles — is incredibly cheap.

The charm of Ha Long Bay lies in the dual surprises of sea and mountains. When you wake up on the deck and open the door, you will see stone peaks shrouded in mist, and you'll understand why it's called the "land where the dragon descends."