A Timeless Journey where Emerald Green Waters and Dramatic Limestone Karsts Rise Majestically from the Sea

I was awe-struck by the beauty of Ha Long Bay. This is a must-see bucket list destination that mesmerized me with its stunning landscapes and thousands of limestone karsts jutting majestically out of emerald waters, shrouded in an air of mystery by the early morning mist. Ha long Bay is not just a destination—it’s an experience.  

Our home for two nights was this amazing white vessel called the Paloma sitting high on the emerald waters between limestone karsts. Going on a small boat to embark allowed us to admire our boat in its whole glory, and marvel at its size and beauty as we grew closer.  With our luggage in hand, we quickly settled in our room.  I loved the traditional wooden design I felt immersed in a bygone era of 17^th century Asia. 

Our first stop was the Vung Vieng Floating Village, home to approximately 300 residents and tourism has supported the village to build a classroom so the children can go to floating school and study.  We had a choice to kayak around the village ourselves or board a small wooden rowboat navigated by a local resident.  We opted for the later so we could sit back and take in the magical scenery, which was a photographer’s paradise, my finger wasn’t off the shutter button.   

The next day, we boarded a smaller vessel and set out to kayak through the calm waters of Ha Long Bay. It was the most peaceful and tranquil setting I have ever experienced, surrounded by towering limestone islands and the gentle sounds of nature. The serenity of the bay, combined with the beauty of its untouched landscapes, made it feel like we were drifting through a dream. This was the first time Zac and Brynie had been thrown into a kayak in the middle of nowhere, and they fully embraced the experience. With wide eyes and plenty of laughs, they paddled through the calm waters, taking in the stunning scenery around them. Despite the unfamiliarity, they quickly got into the rhythm. 

While a lot of people opt for the 1-night two-day cruise, I was glad we had that extra day to really live in the moment and take in this place where time seems to slow down, and you can’t help but feel a deep sense of awe for the beauty of the world around you. It’s like something out of a fairy tale, and you never tire of the scenery you are immersed in.  It’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left its shores – it is pure tranquillity and natural beauty. These two days sailing in Ha Long Bay became the highlight of our trip to Vietnam, read more here, and a memory we’ll carry with us forever.  

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