Halong Bay
Our train arrived back at Hanoi about 5.30am so Wan suggested that we go straight to Halong Bay as it was about a three hour journey and we
could stop and have breakfast on the way. What a great idea as not much was opened at this time of the morning so off we set.
Arriving before the crowds was a very good idea and our boat was waiting for us at the jetty. The day was overcast and a bit
hazy but Halong Bay has a charm all of its own due to the extraordinary landscapes with nearly 3000 small islands.
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After a fascinating cruise we came across Thien Cung Cave. This is an amazing cave discovered by a fisherman in 1993 and made awesome by the natural limestone shapes lit up by many different coloured
lights. The path through the caves and the steps inside have been built so that viewing is very easy and even though very warm, comfortable for the visitors. After sometime we walked outside and then entered the Daugo Cave
which is right next door. This cave is magnificent although not lit up to the same extent as the Thien Cung Cave, however is
outstanding because of the rock formations.
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After a refreshing drink, we boarded our boat again for a leisurely cruise around the islands taking in the wonderous views. Lunch was served and our cook did
a magnificent job of preparing fish, crab, prawns and spring rolls. How nice it was to sit back and enjoy the scenery taking in such special sights as the Hen and Chicken Rock among many others.
Of course there was the odd boat sellers coming alonside to sell their goods to us and this added to the flavour of the day.
Time to go back to the dock and set off for Hanoi, our next destination for another 5 days of discovery!
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