On the road again

Sean and I just retured from a fantastic 3 day/2 night trip to Halong Bay, whic is about a 3-hour drive from Hanoi. We decided to go via a tour company as most people (and Lonely Planet) recommend this as the best way to see the sights of the bay. As we approached the bay by van, I was seriously in awe with the beauty that was before me. I know, totally cheezy, but I kid you not, dear friends - this was the most BEAUTIFUL and SPECTACULAR thing I have ever seen. I guess at one point it was on the ballot for one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Just imagine a body of water filled with over 3000 islands that are each reminiscent of Jurassic Park. And within some of these mounds of green, there are these majestic limestone caves that are absolutely remarkable. Not to mention the multitude of species of both flora and fauna that are found no where else but here.

We sailed on junks (I think they look like Pirate ships arrrrggggh), sun-bathed aboard them, kayaked and swam with jellyfish, hiked to one of the highest peaks on Cat Ba island (the largest island in the bay), and even saw mokeys with our naked eyes on, what else, Monkey Island.

It was an incredible delight and defintely worth every penny, which was only a mere $60 for all transfers, meals, lodging, activities, fees, etc. Can you believe that?

We had just a few hours back in Hanoi for some dinner, some beers, and a little internet time before we head off to Sapa for the next couple days.

I will try to post some pictures when we return to Hanoi on Monday.