Posts Tagged ‘halong bay’

Matts most recent trip to Vietnam – an overview

9 December 2011 by

For those not in the know about Vietnam, or have no idea about the different places to visit, or what’s on offer, then read below and this gives a very general overview of my recent 2 week trip , and idea of what to expect from all the ‘must see’s of Vietnam’. I journeyed north to south, so that I could finish in the warm weather of the south, but just personal preference – I love a bit of sun (and humidity!)

Sampling Pho in Sapa market

Hanoi
A hectic buzzing, horn beeping, confusing warren of streets and a serious introduction to the Vietnamese life. Having been here before, it’s not so much of a shock, but my advice is to be brave, head out to the streets and really experience local life. Get lost in the old quarter, and shop to your hearts content. Although I didn’t get to stay at the Sofitel Legend Metropole, I did go for afternoon tea, this is definitely something I would recommend to any client, and follow with a walk around the more modern, moneyed French quarter. My favourite hotel in the Masion D’hanoi – with its great location, and beautifully designed rooms, it definitely falls into the boutique category, and the service is top notch.

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Cruise Boat Sinks In Halong Bay

17 February 2011 by

A live-aboard cruise boat carrying local and foreign tourists (not the boat pictured) took on water and sank off Vietnam’s Halong Bay this morning (February 17th, 2011). Reports are still vague and information about the circumstances is still filtering through. It is clear that there has been loss of life, with up to 12 people reported drowned. Experience Travel and our partners in Vietnam had no clients involved and have never worked with the vessel that sank or the company that runs it.

This is not the first time disaster has struck the tourist industry in the bay area. As a precautionary measure, local authorities have suspended all overnight cruises from the bay for tonight and further information will be given tomorrow. Experience Travel would like to pass on their condolences to the families and friends of all those who lost their lives in the incident. (more…)

Cat Ba Island

28 May 2009 by

Great post from harry and Ben in Vietnam there – tales of random street food from Asia always makes me crazy with jealousy!
We are hearing great things from our clients about Cat Ba. It’s a great way to see Halong Bay away from the busy junk boat routes – and with trekking in the jungle as well as a beach you can’t really go far wrong!’ We use the excellent Cat Ba Sunrise Hotel.

Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island

Hanoi and Halong Bay

Hanoi is a very different city to Bangkok.’ One of the first things you notice is the architecture which is very French in style.’ Shutters and balconies on tall thin buildings painted in vibrant colours.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay

The other things you notice on the drive from the Airport are somewhat stereotypical.’ Numerous paddy fields and the Vietnamese “Non” hats made of palm leaves and bamboo.’ It takes you back to the movies!
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