Ha Long Bay, Vietnam : a cruise to the South China Sea

This is our second visit to the Ha Long Bay by cruise.  The first time was eight years earlier.  Ha Long Bay retains its calm and beauty.  Passengers from the cruise still have to be transported by small boats to the shore. The noticeable change is the presence of more pleasure boats for tourists.



(Pleasure boats waiting for tourists)

 We like the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay.  Nearly two thousand of limestone islets of various sizes and shapes are scattered around the bay.  The calm sea water surface reflects the images of these islets.

In these limestone islets, there are also limestone caves.  Some of these caves have been turned into tourist spots.

Life in the fishermen village remains the same.  Most villagers live in their boats or floating houses.  Fishing and fish farming are their main sources of income.  Recently, tourist business has brought in new income to the villagers.



(Young and elderly fishermen near the shore)



(Fisherman family trying to sell fruits to tourists)



(Sea eagle looking for its catch in the bay)