Ha Long Bay - A priceless heritage gift bestowed by nature

HA LONG BAY

The spectacular landscape of the bay is created by more than 1600 islands of limestone, large and small, on the emerald-green waters of Ha Long Bay. This is also the place to witness changes in the Earth's development history. Limestone columns are covered with rows of deep green tropical trees, along with a spectacular system of limestone caves and caves. Ha Long Bay was first recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site in 1994 thanks to its unique and important aesthetic values. In 2000, Ha Long Bay was honored for the second time to be recognized by the unique geomorphological values, through the process of Earth tectonics for billions of years.

Many tourists did not expect that Ha Long was such a valuable Heritage to humanity because of its rare biodiversity, culture and history. Thanks to those unique values, Ha Long Bay has become an attractive destination for tourists, where they can come closer to the country, vibrant and interesting Vietnamese people.

In Sino-Vietnamese, "Hạ" means reduction, while "Long" means dragon. "Ha Long" literally means "dragon bay", combining ancient myths and Vietnamese history. In English, there are two ways to use the words "Vietnam" and "Vietnam". In Ha Long, too, the usage of the word "Halong" is more common through word of mouth due to its long-standing awareness while "Ha Long" is still the official name of the Bay.

Ha Long Bay is located in Quang Ninh Province, northeast of Vietnam, only 180 km east of Hanoi; It is surrounded by Bai Tu Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island, Tuan Chau Island and Ha Long City. Although the area is not large about 1533 km2, Ha Long Bay owns about 1,600 limestone islands and islets. Limestone towers, large and small islands with typical weathered caves are located deep inside, large and small caves outside are all fascinating mysteries waiting for visitors to explore. Some islands are completely empty. Located on the island are beautiful beaches, with emerald green water patting on the smooth white sand.

The only way to discover the entire Halong Bay is by traveling on the green islands by yourself. On a wooden boat or cruise ship, visitors can enjoy the enchanting natural scenery from the balcony, terrace or in front of the luxury yacht. Admire the rising sun and sunset, covering the bay an impressive pink and orange, and enjoy the fresh air that makes the mind absolutely relaxed.

Also do not let rain forecasts hinder your trip. Even the harshest and most foggy weather cannot soften the beauty of Ha Long Bay; rain even creates a mysterious atmosphere, nostalgic old atmosphere ...

HA LONG BAY LEGEND

When Vietnam was still in the first phase of forming its national identity, between 900 and 1300 AD, Ha Long was the battlefield of territorial conflicts with its coastal neighbors, Especially China and Mongolia.

Legend has it that when the Jade Emperor wanted to protect Vietnam from the war, he sent dragons to the ground, aiming to be used as a weapon against the invaders. It was these dragons who spread a series of gems on the ground - including emeralds and emeralds - which later turned into large and small islands of Ha Long Bay. These large and small islands possess natural strength, are resistant to invaders and attackers, and set up a perfect barrier for the ambushes of the water warriors. ta. The rocky mountains can even rise from the ocean, engulfing enemy ships, like a special magic.

Later, when the country was completely settled, the dragons flew around the world to enjoy peace. And then the adventure ended, Mother Dragon decided to lower the world to Ha Long, and that is also the origin of the name associated with this place. While the Mother Dragon resides in Ha Long, the Young Dragons choose their place in Bai Tu Long Bay and Bach Long Vi Island.

Since then, the villagers residing in Ha Long Bay have no longer lived in fear, instead being peaceful, officially free from the hands of the invaders. On the other hand, although the legend of the origin of Ha Long formation has been passed down through the generations, the references that refer to "Ha Long" were not mentioned until the early 19th century; Instead, this land is referred to more than the sea names Giao Chau, Luc Chau, Luc Thuy, Van Don, Hai Dong or An Bang. Only in the late 19th century did Ha Long Bay appear on the map of navigation of the Tonkin Gulf of France.