The journey to Ha Long Bay took approximately three hours from Hanoi. Ha Long Bay is a big tourist destination in Vietnam so it was somewhat strange to see so many tourists and foreigners when we arrived (I am beginning to become accustomed to being a minority in Hanoi). There were about ten passengers aboard the ship and six crew members. The boat itself was fairly nice and included about ten cabins, an eating area and an upstairs deck.
Ha Long Bay itself was absolutely breathtaking! I have posted some photos below for reference, but I am afraid they do not quite do the bay justice. Words cannot describe how magical this place seemed. Once we got into the bay itself, we were able to tour some of the caverns and kayak around the bay. Kayaking was really neat as we got to experience the bay up close and also better see the community of Vietnamese people that live aboard house boats in the bay.
Apart from viewing the bay though, one of my favorite parts occurred when Pat and I began playing cards with all of the crew members after dinner on Saturday. They taught us how to play some popular Vietnamese games and we taught them how to play Go Fish. Even though there were some language barriers, we were still able to connect with them through laugher and fun -- it was also a great time to practice our Vietnamese, especially since we just learned the Vietnamese numbers last week.
While this weekend was very fun, I am now pretty worn out and plan to take it easy tonight before another busy week of training begins tomorrow.
Our boat in Ha Long Bay
Soo pretty! Looks like the set of a movie or something.
ReplyDeleteWow, those pictures are amazing. You should remember those Vietnamese card games and teach them to us when you come back. :)
ReplyDeleteDon't worry, Lindsay. I will definitely teach them to you! We can play when you come visit this summer :)
ReplyDeleteWow! Those are gorgeous! They look like postcard pictures! That's so cool that you're getting to see all those places.
ReplyDeleteThis makes me REALLY want to come visit. Not just because it looks absolutely beautiful, but I know that traveling with you would be endless adventure as you take advantage of opportunities and find ways to connect with others.
ReplyDeleteGlad you are documenting these experiences!
Olivia and Lisa -- you are both more than happy to come and visit anytime :)
ReplyDeleteAmazing scenery! I think I saw something like that on Sunrise Earth once. ;)
ReplyDeleteGlad to see you are doing well. We miss you! Oh, and Ryan asks "When are you coming back? In time for his birthday?"
;)
Stacey -- haha, oh Sunrise Earth! I miss you guys, too! When are you coming over for a visit? ;) We can celebrate Ryan's birthday when you arrive. I hope everything is going well. I miss you seeing you guys regularly. Hope final wedding plans are going well!
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