Vietnam tours

For nearly a decade, the nominee for a Natural Wonder of the World title has attracted more tourists since the bridge linking Bai Chay (Chay Beach) and Hon Gai (Gai Islet) was built.

I come to Halong at noon; the sun is high in the sky and burning bright. At the pier countless wooden junks, sailboats, speedboats and tiny bamboo boats bob around. After a four hour stint in the van from Hanoi, everybody is understandably itching to kick back and feel the sea breeze on board.

My bike is sitting un-used in my room, waiting for a ride. I have not cycled since arrival in Hanoi as it looks to be quite a big challenge to navigate the horrible traffic congestion out on those streets. It is the worst I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been to quite a number of third world countries

Even if we hadn’t already spent a week in the bustle and hustle of Hanoi, the mist-shrouded limestone peaks of Ha Long Bay, echoing birdcalls and water lapping our ship would have been enchanting. But by the time we arrived at this UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Vietnam’s Gulf of Tonkin, we badly needed a break from the mad motor-scooter traffic of the nation’s second-largest city, the swarming pineapple vendors and the ceaseless capitalist hustle.

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong

You will be picked up at around 08:00am at your hotel in Hanoi, then depart for Halong Bay – World Heritage Site. Enroute a short break to relax, then continue the route to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at Halong pier, check in on board and set sail through bay [...]

Jasmine Junk, launched in November 2007, the attention to detail and quality of design is apparent in every inch of this newly-built junk, artfully marrying space, rich 1930s Indochine-style wooden décor and exquisite ornamentation throughout its air-conditioned 24 bedrooms, restaurant, bars and communal spaces. Whether you want to throw a party on the terrace, enjoy [...]

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong
You will be picked up at around 08:00am at your hotel in Hanoi, then depart for Halong Bay – World Heritage Site. Enroute a short break to relax, then continue the route to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at Halong pier, check in on board and set sail through bay while lunch [...]

Ginger Junk, launched in mid 2006, the wooden junk that combines classic beauty with modern comfort. This custom-designed junk features three decks that house an elegant restaurant, lounge, two bars, a small boutique, library and ten luxurious sleeping cabins. With so much space, passengers can truly unwind.

We chose our boat’s name—Halong Ginger—because, like the plant [...]

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong Bay Traditional Junk Cruise (L, D)
We depart from the capital at 8:30 am for Ha Long Bay approximately three hours away. En route we have a short stop at the Sao Dao center run for and by handicapped children for short break. Upon arrival at Ha Long Bay we will [...]

Day 1: Hanoi – Ginger Halong Cruise (L, D)
We depart from the capital at 8:30 am for Ha Long Bay approximately three hours away. En route we have a short stop at the Sao Dao center run for and by handicapped children for short break. Upon arrival at Ha Long Bay you will be transferred [...]