Halong Bay travel guide

1. What are the transportation options to Halong bay from Hanoi?

Shared and Private Transfers

According to forum posts, from Hanoi to Halong Bay, travelers can choose between shared bus services, private car hires, or limousines. A shared limousine service costs about $30 USD for a round trip per person, while a private transfer by car can cost around $90 USD one way.

Bus Services

Some travelers mentioned that cruise packages often include the transfer via an air-conditioned shuttle bus, taking about 3 to 4 hours each way. Additionally, there are limousine bus services to Halong Bay that cost around $15 per person one way.

Alternative Transport Options

For those looking for a unique experience, a seaplane service offers aerial views of Halong Bay, though it's more costly and doesn't provide a direct route to Hanoi. For a comprehensive experience, some cruises also provide round-trip transport services as part of their package.

2. What are the best cruise option in Halong bay?

Popular Cruise Options

According to forum posts, popular cruise options in Ha Long Bay include Paradise Grand, Indochina Junk, and Bhaya cruises. These cruises are recommended for their quality services and scenic routes, covering iconic spots such as Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay.

Less Touristy Alternatives

For travelers seeking less crowded experiences, Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay are frequently suggested. The Renea Cruise offers a 3D2N cruise in these areas, providing a more secluded and intimate setting. Additionally, the Larrisa Cruise are noted for their enjoyable itineraries in Bai Tu Long Bay.

Luxury and Budget Options

For luxury experiences, the Paradise cruise and Indochina Sails cruise are highly recommended. Budget-conscious travelers have enjoyed the Swan Cruise and Indochina Junk, which offer more affordable rates without compromising safety and comfort.

3. How does the Bai Tu Long bay compare to Halong bay?

Popularity and Crowds

According to forum posts, Halong Bay is more popular and well-known, leading to higher levels of crowd congestion. Bai Tu Long Bay, on the other hand, is described by some travelers as quieter and less crowded, making it a preferable option for those seeking a more serene experience.

Environmental Concerns

Some users have noted that Bai Tu Long Bay is cleaner compared to Halong Bay, which has been reported to have issues with garbage and pollution. This has made Bai Tu Long Bay more appealing to environmentally conscious travelers.

Scenic and Tourist Experience

While Halong Bay is famous for its iconic rock formations and caves, Bai Tu Long Bay offers a more untouched and natural environment. However, both bays are part of the larger Halong Bay region, and the differences in scenery between them may not be drastically different, as noted by some travelers.

4. What are recommended Luxury Cruises in Halong bay?

Recommendations from Travelers

According to forum posts, the Au Co Cruise is highlighted for its luxury and comfort, offering a 3-day experience where guests stay on the same cruise without needing to switch boats. Another recommended option is the Larrisa Cruise, Signature cruise which are favored for touring the less crowded Bai Tu Long Bay.

Additional Luxury Options

Some travelers also recommend the Athena Cruise, which features unique dining experiences such as a dinner on a floating farm. The Stellar of the Seas, which sails to the less frequented Lan Ha Bay, is praised for providing a quieter and higher-quality experience.

5. Where Should I stay in Halong bay?

We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Hạ Long Bay, which include:

• Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long
• Novotel Ha Long Bay
• Wyndham Legend Halong
• DeLaSea Ha Long Hotel - Modern Bayview Escape
• Saigon Halong Hotel

6. What are the best places to eat in Halong bay?

Some of the most popular restaurants in Hạ Long Bay include:

• Soul Bowl At Citadines Marina Ha Long
• Nha Hang Hong Hanh
• Cafe Bamboo
• Á Đông Restaurant
• Nhà hàng Sen Hà Thành Hạ Long

7. What is Halong bay known for?

Hạ Long Bay is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:

• Halong Bay
• Bai Tu Long Bay
• Sung Sot Cave
• Ti Top Island
• Ha Long Night Market

8. What is there to do in Halong bay?

• Bai Tu Long Bay overnight Cruise trip
• Halong bay deluxe cruise day trip
• Halong bay luxury cruise day trip
• Lan Ha bay Luxury cruise day trip