Ha Long Bay and Ti Top Island Cruise – A Must-Do Activity in Hanoi!

Hanoi is a city that is rich in heritage, culture and history. There are so many things to see and do that it can be overwhelming for first time visitors. One of the most popular and must-do activities on everyone’s list is to experience the stunning beauty of Ha Long Bay and Ti Top Island Cruise. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about this activity, share some details about the tour and provide helpful tips to make the most of your experience.

What is Ha Long Bay and Ti Top Island Cruise?

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam. This beautiful bay full of limestone islands is a destination that must be experienced on a boat. Ti Top Island is one of the islands in Ha Long Bay that is known for its beautiful natural beach and stunning panoramic views. Ha Long Bay and Ti Top Island Cruise is an adventure that will take you deep into the waters of Ha Long Bay and give you the opportunity to explore the islands, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and climb to the summit of Ti Top Island for panoramic views.

What are the highlights of this tour?

The highlights of this tour are many, but some of the most notable ones include:

• Cruising around the karst rock formations of Ha Long Bay
• Climbing to the summit of Ti Top Island for panoramic views
• Journeying through the uninhabited islets of a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Ha Long Bay
• Enjoying a delicious seafood lunch on board the cruise

What is the itinerary of this tour?

Ha Long Bay and Ti Top Island Cruise is a full-day tour that departs from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Here’s the basic itinerary of the tour:

What should I bring on this tour?

Here’s a list of things you should pack for your Ha Long Bay and Ti Top Island Cruise:

• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
• A swimsuit and a towel to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Ha Long Bay
• Comfortable shoes for the climb to the summit of Ti Top Island
• A camera to capture the stunning views and memories of the tour
• Some cash for personal expenses and tips

What are some helpful tips for this tour?

Now that you know what to expect from your Ha Long Bay and Ti Top Island Cruise, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your experience:

• Don’t forget your camera as you’ll want to capture some amazing shots of the beautiful bay.
• Be prepared for the heat and humidity by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and bringing sunscreen and a hat.
• Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and climbing.
• Bring some cash for personal expenses and tips for the tour guides and crew.

In conclusion, Ha Long Bay and Ti Top Island Cruise is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hanoi. The stunning beauty of the bay and the island will leave you in awe, and the experience of cruising through the waters and exploring the islands is unforgettable. Book your Ha Long Bay and Ti Top Island Cruise here today and let us take you on an adventure you’ll never forget!

Insider’s Guide to Hanoi: Exploring Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine, and Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

Hanoi boasts a wealth of tourist spots such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, and the Temple of Literature. But if you want to experience Hanoi like a local, you should venture beyond the beaten path.

One of the hidden gems of Hanoi is the Train Street, a narrow alley lined with houses and cafes, where trains pass through twice a day. Another thrilling experience is visiting the Dong Xuan Market – one of the largest covered markets in Southeast Asia -, where you can haggle over locally sourced products with vendors, or enjoy the best of street food bites at the Old Quarter, Hanoi’s 36 Streets.

If you’re interested in art and culture, head to the Manzi Art Space, where you can attend exhibitions, music performances, and workshops. You can also explore the quirky art installments at the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural, a 4 km long mural that features over 1000 Vietnamese cultural and historical artworks.

Dining Spots: Discovering Local Cuisine and Traditions

Hanoi is reputed for its street food and local cuisine, from pho noodle soup to Bun Cha (grilled pork with rice noodles) and Banh Mi sandwiches. But there’s more to Hanoi’s cuisine scene than these popular dishes.

One must-try dish that most visitors have never heard of is the Cha Ca La Vong, a Hanoi-style fish served with vermicelli, peanuts, and fresh herbs, that locals say is a 100-year-old tradition. For adventurous eaters, nothing comes close to the exotic egg coffee, a Hanoian delicacy made of egg yolk, condensed milk, sugar, and coffee, whose origin dates back to the 1940s.

While enjoying your food, delve into the culture surrounding it. One interesting anecdote from Hanoi’s food culture is that Pho was often served to soldiers during the Vietnam war, fueling and comforting them before battle.

Cultural Experiences: Art, Music, and Customs

Hanoi is a city that values its traditions and customs. For a glimpse into the city’s iconic art forms, watch a unique water puppet show, brought to life by skilled puppeteers who perform in waist-deep water and mime folk tales and legends. For a more modern performance, the Hanoi Opera House is an excellent venue for theatre, classical music and dance.

If you’re interested in Vietnamese fashion, head to Khai Silk, a Hanoi boutique famous for elegant, custom-made traditional Vietnamese clothes, and the famous Ao Dai, a Vietnamese national symbol of grace and style.

If you want to participate in cultural events, the Lunar New Year, known as Tet Nguyen Dan, is the most significant celebration for locals – giving a chance to take part in a range of activities from firework displays to traditional ceremonies.

Local History: Captivating Tales of the City’s Past

Hanoi’s rich history spans over a thousand years, and the city has many captivating tales to tell. One example is the story of the One-Pillar Pagoda, a 1000-year-old architectural wonder that was built by King Ly Thai Tong, who had a vision of the goddess of mercy Phat Ba Quan Am Mother standing on a lotus flower. The temple was constructed in the shape of a lotus bud, referencing Ly Thai Tong’s vision.

Another historically significant place is the Hanoi Hilton, which was a prisoner-of-war camp during the Vietnam War and held American soldiers. While you’re there, you can explore the fascinating exhibits and learn about the history behind this dark period.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Adventures

For the adventurous souls looking for an offbeat experience in Hanoi, head to the suburbs to explore the site of an ancient citadel dating back to the 7th century. And for the more relaxed adventure, cycle around the West Lake, the largest lake in Hanoi, and visit Xuan Dieu Street, lined with trendy cafes and shops.

If you want to escape the city life altogether, travel to Ninh Binh, a region of stunning mountainous landscapes, picturesque rivers and rice paddies that make for a peaceful and quiet escape.

In conclusion, this insider’s guide has given you a glimpse of Hanoi’s hidden gems and traditions, cuisine, and culture. When you visit this compelling city, take the time to venture beyond the tourist spots to take part in an experience that will leave you with memories to cherish forever.