The Emerald Isles of Halong Bay

August 02, 2016

Halong Bay: Towering Limestone Isles

Seeking solace and refuge from my routine, I ventured to do a cruise in Halong Bay. It was a notion that had only existed to me in reverie for much too long. Yet I was ready and eager to finally make my journey into this renowned natural wonder a reality. I couldn’t contain my excitement and my curiosity for what was to come.

Entering Halong Bay as we set sail was truly otherworldly. I took a deep breath of fresh air as I simultaneously marveled at the smooth emerald waters. For as far as I could see, countless towering limestone isles dotted the bay. Serenity filled the air and I felt a wave of contentment. It was confirmed: I would find much more solace on this venture than I originally thought possible. Smiling to myself, I claimed one of the reclining chairs on the top deck. For a few hours I allowed myself to bathe in the soothing rays, letting the sun warm my face.  I opened my eyes every now and again to peek up at blue skies.  Meanwhile we continued to navigate our way through the endless sublime isles.

Halong Bay Isles

Thien Cung Cave

In the mid-afternoon, our ship docked. Anchored at a harbor near a steep, winding stone stairway, we then ascended up to Thien Cung Cave. A 10,000 square meter cavern, adorned with stalactite formations, high ceilings, and colorful lights – the cave resembled nature’s very own art museum. Its features were truly arresting.

Before sunset, we hopped into kayaks to revel in the quiet waters. We watched in silence as the sun turned into a golden, fiery sphere, setting the entire sky ablaze before slowly sinking into the horizon. Once the sun fell out of our line of vision, the sky transformed into a luminous sandy hue, as karsts in the distance cast their shadowy streaks across the sky from the last light.

After enjoying a delicious traditional Vietnamese dinner served on the ship, I returned to the top deck to admire millions of glistening stars splattered across the dark night sky. I whirled in wonder and joy as all the beautiful scenes from the day flashed across my mind. Savoring the cool sea breeze once more, I then retired to my cabin for the night.

Halong-Bay-Karst-Vietnam

Sunrise Over the Dragon Isles

Watching the sun illuminate the isles and enliven the bay the following morning was utterly invigorating. After yet another delectable meal on-ship, we set off early heading toward a private beach. Once onshore, I flicked off my sandals to feel the sand between my toes. The sun was gentle and warming. And I was eager to find a place on the island where I could just take in the peaceful views. There were some hammocks on the beach. So I claimed one to myself. For an hour or so I just sat back. And relished in the magnificence of all the natural wonders surrounding me. Feeling a whoosh of energy, I hopped off the hammock. Wanted to do a bit of exploring before retreating to join the others. Climbing around on some rocks, I found an emerald-colored lagoon to cool off in for a bit.

As our ship made its way back to the harbor, I watched as the islets slipped by while I relished these last moments. My experience in Halong Bay was the exact refuge I had been searching for. But I got so much more than that. It was a detox in every sense of the word. I left the ship feeling lighter and inspired. The combination of scenery and serenity cleansed me and recharged me. And the celestial silhouettes of isles that speckle the horizon will forever be ingrained in my heart.