One of the most prominent tourist destinations in Vietnam is the Ha Long Bay archipelago and its islands.The rich history associated with its unique geology and mature landscape attracts thousands of tourists worldwide. On the emerald water against the blue milieu, numerous limestone islands impart a breathtaking view to visitors.Countless picturesque caves, primarily of three main types; the phreatic caves, marine notch caves, and the old karstic foot caves, add a bespoke mystery to the bay that urges one to delve into the obscurities. The mouth-watering seafood, along with the outstanding hospitality showcased by the native Vietnamese people, is definitely worth a try. Let’s dig into the best of Vietnamese culture from Ha Long Bay facts.You can also check out facts about Bournemouth and the Galapagos Islands here on Kidadl!Ha Long Bay: Geographic LocationHa Long Bay is located on the northwestern coast of the Gulf of Tonkin, near Hong Gai in northeast Vietnam. Present in the Quang Ninh province, it lies 102 mi (164 km) southeast of the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi.The entire region covers an extensive area of 580 sq. mi (1,500 sq. km) and is topped with several rocky islands. These islands protrude out from the sea, typically in the form of spiky limestone pillars. Apart from the islands, Ha Long Bay hosts multitudes of grottoes and caves, all of which add to the Bay’s magnificence. The dense tropical forests are home to countless animal and exotic bird species. An array of fish species inhabiting the bay attracts innumerable birds during their migration periods.It is considered one of the best destinations for sea kayak expeditions, junk boat tours, hiking, rock climbing, and scuba diving.Ha Long’s Vietnamese name means ‘Where the dragon descends to the Sea.’ This name reflects the origin of this bay and sheds light on the old folklores about the fearsome dragon named Tarasque, who is responsible for giving rise to this region.Numerous artifacts are retrieved from this region, which puts forth the evidence of the ancient Hoabinhian culture that existed about 10000 years ago. The Vietnamese and Chinese pirates resided in this bay till the early 19th Century, after which a limited human population inhabited Ha Long Islands. At present, the population is dependent on the bay for fishing and shipping, apart from the booming tourism industry of this country.Ha Long Bay Island: CharacteristicsMore than 1600 islands on Ha Long Bay are present, most of which are not inhabited by human beings. The extraordinary limestone pillar-like islands and the dotting caves amaze the spectators. The perfect mature karst landscape developed in the warm tropical climate further accentuates the beauty of Ha Long Bay.The caves display spectacular erosional features that add to the natural panorama of the entire bay. Repeated sea invasion on the limestone karst has resulted in the formation of isolated towers and conical peaks on the karsts over the prolonged geologic time period.The Island comprises a plethora of attractions that never disappoint the visitors. Located just to the south of Ha Long Bay is the Lan Ha Bay. The extensive white sand beaches, along with hundreds of karst islands, are a spectacular place to visit. It is most popular for nighttime explorations on a boat and various outdoor activities like kayaking, swimming, hiking, and rock climbing. This region hosts an array of mollusks and arthropods that are the quintessential Vietnamese delicacies. Tourists also cherish the occasional waving of seals and plunge of dolphins.Other incredible attractions of Ha Long Bay Islands include the Cannon Fort, the Cat Be National Park, and the abundant fishing villages. Several cruise companies take tourists to these villages to spend quality time fishing with the natives, eating their traditional food, and perceiving a taste of their everyday life.Ha Long Bay: Famous CuisinesApart from the breathtaking view of Ha Long Bay, it is also famous for its lip-smacking cuisines. Good food is an essential component of the itinerary. Vietnam never disappoints its tourists regarding the abundant food choice it puts forth.Since Ha Long Bay bears a rich marine life, most of the dishes cooked here include prawns, crabs, fish, squid, and shrimps. Octopus meat is also quite common, and a hot shrimp sandwich is a must-have snack. Good Vietnamese food is served in most of the restaurants in this region. Apart from fish, mollusks, and arthropods, the restaurants also serve beef, chicken, and pork.Beef and pork noodles and pork spring rolls are pretty popular in the bay region. Baguette sandwiches, which are called banh mi in Vietnam, come with different fish, chicken, beef, and pork options. It is a must-try when you hit the bay. Vietnamese ham, shredded beef, shrimp papaya salad, salt pepper chicken, shrimp cabbage salad, and chicken with fries are typical cuisines opted by tourists.Most restaurants in the bay islands provide the option of chicken, beef, pork, tofu, and also a choice of vegetable in their rice and rice vermicelli, which are the staple food of the people inhabiting the islands. A popular cuisine in these islands is pho noodle soup. One can opt for beef pho, pork chop pho, vegetable pho, and even the shrimp pasta tomato noodle pho. Depending on the choice of meat or fish, or vegetable, pho soup costs about $14 (₤10.4) on average.As Ha Long Bay experiences a tropical climate, one can taste a wide array of fruit juices, smoothies, shakes, and mocktails. Some of the most common beverages in the bay islands are iced lychee with jelly, lychee smoothie, jackfruit smoothie, and several other types. The beach waves and the soft coastal breeze are best enjoyed with fresh-squeezed lemonade. Pho soup complements the nighttime cave or island expeditions.Ha Long Bay As World Heritage SiteHa Long Bay was listed as a World Heritage Site by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Vietnam in 1962 in a publication named ‘Renowned National Landscape Monument,’ based on the National relics and landscapes.In 1994, Ha Long Bay came into the World Heritage list of UNESCO due to its exclusive geological value and the rich history associated with it. The enthralling beauty of nature and the islands and caves in abundance mesmerizes viewers. Owing to its remarkable geomorphological value, the World Heritage Committee again recognized it in 2000. Currently, UNESCO protects several important sites in the archipelago through various protection laws.Further, the splendid Ha Long Bay was nominated in 2009 in the list of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The New Seven Wonders Foundation brought out this nomination. And after large-scale voting that took place throughout the world, the spectacular Ha Long Bay finally made its entry into the list of New Seven Natural Wonders of the world on November 11, 2011.The extraordinary beauty of nature and several tourist attractions are best viewed while cruising on boats. Ha Long nightlife can be cherished at popular food joints and cafes that serve the best Vietnamese cuisine. Adventurous sports and activities make the trip even more fun. The stunning biodiversity and picturesque islands are featured in several Hollywood movies.Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created many interesting family-friendly facts for everyone to enjoy! If you liked our suggestions for Ha Long Bay: cool facts revealed on tourism island with Vietnamese food, then why not take a look at when do men stop growing, curious body growth facts for kids or when do tulips bloom, beautiful flower facts on bloom times?
One of the most prominent tourist destinations in Vietnam is the Ha Long Bay archipelago and its islands.
