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Asia travel forum / Vietnam / Some Real Questions About Halong Bay

Author	Message
cheapswill longtail driver Posts: 10	#1 Posted: 6/7/2006 - 22:30 Hey Everyone, I've been trying to find out some info about touring Halong Bay when I visit Vietnam in October. I thought staying on one of those junks would be cool but the prices I found on line ranged from "too good to be true" to "too much to handle". I don't need to stay in luxury but I don't want to sleep in a leaky barge either. What is a standard price for a comfortable and fun 2 day tour to Halong Bay? Can anyone reccomend a good tour company or agent in Hanoi for this? Is it going to be bloody cold in early October?

somtam2000 admin mahout Posts: 5181 Located in: Global Village	#2 Posted: 7/7/2006 - 07:47 Hi cheapswill, The Ha Long bay tour thing is a real minefield and difficult to give a recommendation on as we've not done one ourselves in yonks. There are two main problems which weave in nicely to create a nightmare scenario for shoppers -- the two problems are dodgy operators and unrealistic expectations from tourists. Consider the following when you're pricing the tours; It takes three to four hours to drive from Hanoi to the piers at Ha Long city. There's junks and there's junks and there's junks -- no two junks are alike. To sleep on the boat will cost more To have a "deluxe room" will cost more To kayak will cost more Now there are operators in Hanoi offering one day Ha Long Bay trips for as little as US$15 per person, who promise "small groups" seafood banquets, luxury junks etc but it's rare that all (if any) of these benefits arise. It used to be the case that the pricey operators were a safe bet, but now dodgy operators offer more expensive "deluxe" options but then deliver rubbish. Most complaints come from people who have used operators that charge around $40 or less per person per day. Operators we've heard good reports from include: Handspan Wideeyed Tours though bear in mind we have not used either of the above -- for a two night, three day tour, expect to be paying around US$100-150 per person. Also, be wary of going into one of the above and being told they also have "cheaper" options -- these will generaly result in you being shifted off to another operator and you end up with the same crappy services. Watch out for imitators -- handspun, handspans and handspanned were all agents I saw in Hanoi that were trying to rip off Handspan tours. Lastly, if you don't book in advance, ask travellers on the ground fora recommendation. Sorry can't be of more help -- its unfortunate that one of the highlights of a trip to Vietnam has been so comprehensively screwed up by corrupt officials and dodgy operators. Also, please report back with your experience-- will be helpful for others. Helpful? +4 ------------------------------ Siem Reap and Angkor Wat on your iPhone
ReneHanoi tourist Posts: 54	#3 Posted: 7/7/2006 - 09:19 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Hi there. I couldn't agree more with Somtam's comments. There are zillions of agents promising you the sky, but quality is often poor (even on the most expensive tours) and unreliable (today it's good, tomorrow crap). Handspan Travel or ODC Travel are usually ok. Handspan is not really cheap anymore, but one of the most professional and successful operators. ODC is one of the better cheaper options. But again, no promises ! Another option is to take a public bus out of Gia Lam busstation for 2 USD to Halong (4 hours) and shop around there. Usually Mr Zdung in Halong (0084 91 3370712) is quite reliable. Another problem however is the honesty of the boat crew. They spend 30 days a month on the boat for small wages (31 USD a month) and don't get their share of the food you eat on board. So drinks are often overprized, they try to sell lots of souvenirs at crazy prices, slow down and cut angles to save petrol and another reoccurring problem is theft. Quite a few passengers have seen money disappear from their wallets when sleaping, sunbathing or swimming. Alternatively head for the non-touristy but equally impressive Bai Tu Long Bay, sleep on Van Don Island and take daytrips from there. You might spend a couple of nights on the beautiful beach at Quan Lan island. I'm personally not a big fan of Cat Ba Island. Helpful? +1
kittywoo newbie Posts: 4	#4 Posted: 7/7/2006 - 15:26 Staying in Hanoi for six months has given me the opportunity to go to Ha Long Bay more than once - and to talk to others who've been there too. While Handspan certainly have a good reputation, they are also not the cheapest. A cheaper alternative that I and my friends have used on more than one occasion is ODC Travel (mind you - the real one) whose tours can be booked through the Camelia Hotel(s). They charge around 60USD for a 3 days/2 nights trip with one night on their boat and one in Cat Ba Town, more for single accommodation. The boat seemed fine, food onboard OK and plentiful (though a lot of fried stuff). The guide was good (but that may be a matter of luck). Cat Ba Town is not a very appealing place but is none the less included in most tours. Luckily, as soon as you get outside the town, Cat Ba Island can be really nice, and it's just the one night you spend in town. I think their maximum group sixe is 16 - travelling outside the peak season we were only 8, which was fine, while I imagine 16 may be too many. The minibus to and from Halong City was rather small for people with long legs. Helpful? +1
wolfman hippy Posts: 79	#5 Posted: 7/7/2006 - 15:49 is halong really a must?as rene hanoi metioned, opt for bai to long-fewer tourists means almost no hassle. if it has to be halong shop around there, avoid hanoi. ask fellow-travellers-they always know best! Helpful? +1
cheapswill longtail driver Posts: 10	#6 Posted: 8/7/2006 - 11:36 Thanks Everyone, This is exactly why I love Travelfish! Ask a question and in a few days get some informative and intelligent answers. I think I will play it by ear when I actually get to Vietnam. I intend to hang around Hanoi for a few days first so I will ask some of my fellow travellers. If all else fails I will try ODC. Helpful? 0
Laura_B tourist Posts: 54	#7 Posted: 14/7/2006 - 18:10 Quality is often poor, & the organisation is probably the worst I've ever seen! These people couldn't organise a pi** up in a brewery. Generally whoever you book the trip with only acts as an agent. You'll probably get picked up by another company, who then hands you over to somebody else in Halong Bay. I thought Halong Bay was stunning, but the trip turned into a scary nightmare. We were supposed to dock at Cat Bar island for the night, but got stranded in the middle of bay, as thick fog emerged at sun down. The boat couldn't see where it was going, so the crew decided to anchor in the middle of the bay for the night. There was no raidar or radio to let anyone know where we were. There were people on the boat who were supposed to stay at Cat Bar Island, but ended up sleeping on benches on the boat. There was only enough food for those who were staying the night on the boat. The next day we were supposed to go swimming, visit some islands etc. Nothing happened, I think to be honest people just wanted to get off the boat ASAP due to this fiasco, some people got pretty scared! There were no apologies made or any form of compensation (not that I expected any) Just bare in mind that Halong Bay is very touristy, but still very beautiful! Don't expect much if you're pay $40 or under for a 2 day trip. I think it's luck of the draw whether you'll get a nice boat, good food, small groups etc. Helpful? +1
saitamaints newbie Posts: 1	#8 Posted: 15/7/2006 - 12:04 HANDSPAN TOURS!!!! are grande excelleeent! Helpful? 0
travelsalone flashpacker Posts: 36	#9 Posted: 4/8/2006 - 12:42 Listen carefully to all that has been said! I was there in June and paid around $40 for a three day trip. It was booked through a fake Sinh Travel and operated by AST Travel. The 3-4 hour ride was in a van crammed with people, the boat seemed decent enough but at night they docked next to a sister boat that partied all night, and there were rats squealing and fighting above our heads. A guy from the sister boat had a flood in his room so slept on our deck. The first day was ok with some swimming and kayaking and the caves, and the hike on Cat Ba the second day was great, but that was the end of anything else expected on the tour. The hotel on Cat Ba was not the decent one shown, but a crummy one across the street, and the last day we did not stop at a village as expected, only got to go swimming for about 20 minutes (after begging), and were back in Halong City for lunch at 10:15am! It is possible that someone's money and plane tickets were stolen on the boat. Although the tour itself was poor, I did meet some nice travelers on the trip and Halong Bay itself is beautiful...just be careful of how you pursue experiencing it! Oh! The day after I returned to Hanoi I heard that a junk had sunk and someone had died :( Helpful? 0
pauljaymes hippy Posts: 74	#10 Posted: 20/8/2006 - 22:20 I did the 'Ocean Tours' 2 day package when I was in Hanoi 2 weeks ago. It is the package sold by the Hanoi Backpackers' Hostel. At $50 for 2 days or $75 for 3 days it probably isn't the cheapest package but it does come with - - Really really nice staff with an adequate command of English - Comfortable bus transfers from Hanoi - Amazing meals on the boat - Guided cave visit - Swimming in a relatively clean patch of water (it never gets THAT clean in Halong bay) - Air conditioned cabin on the boat - 2 hour guided Kayak - Customer comments form to fill out on the way home (really!) My only complaints on the form were that:- (1) drinks on the boat were expensive, like a small can of beer was 20,000 dong (ie $1.30) and a bottle of water 15,000. (2) Life jackets weren't handed out for the kayaking, although the guide decided to wear one himself. Ask for a life jacket if you want one and aren't offered one. Other than that, its strongly recommended. Ocean Tours really run the trips themselves - the buses and the Kayaks all displayed their logo. No dodgy re-selling. Apart from the backpackers' hostel you can book at their office in the old quarter. As with all operators in Vietnam, beware of copycat soundalikes. Helpful? +2
Jacster backpacker Posts: 15	#11 Posted: 21/8/2006 - 03:31 I agree with pauljaymes and recommend Ocean Tours - I went to Halong Bay with them in April this year and completely agree with all Paul's comments on the quality of the tour. Enjoy! Helpful? 0
nedders newbie Posts: 4	#12 Posted: 30/8/2006 - 17:43 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Some more info to add to the list!! (was all very useful by the way!) Just returned from 3 days with Ocean Tours, all went very well so they come highly recommended by me! I did the 3 day option for $75 but there are lots of options to suit your style. I went direct to one of the Ocean Tours offices in the old quarter. The guide was great, we were well looked after, so no complaints there! The was only 11 in the group so not big at all. One thing I noticed which seemed different from the other companies is that on the 2nd night you don't stop at the busy Cat Ba bay but Ocean Tours are actually renting a private island near by, so that was great for swimming in cleaner water, kayaking etc, very peaceful. Check out their resort if you want: www.oceanbeachresort.net it does actually look like this web site! also the boat actually looks like the pictures they show you, rooms are en-suite, a/c with towels and even slippers included!! - better than the cheap and cheerful guest houses I'm been staying at! have fun! Helpful? +2
DakLak tourist Posts: 57	#13 Posted: 30/8/2006 - 21:20 TROPICAL SAILS < http://tropical-sails.com/lagoon.html > runs the whole show from bus to The Bay, the boat and the crew. Their boats have all the latest equipment - even a satellite beacon - and they have an excellent reputation. Most other Tour Ops, including Handspan, do not own their boats - even if they say they do - and hwen there are problems at sea complaints are met "it's not our boat". Check on when the power is turned off, too, and where the lifejackets are stored. Always carry a flashlight / torch when at sea. Helpful? +1
hiong longtail driver Posts: 8	#14 Posted: 16/9/2006 - 23:56 hi Dak Lak, Do you know how much the trip on tropical sails costs? I've checked the website (Thanks for the link!) but nowhere to be seen regarding the cost. Helpful? 0
DakLak tourist Posts: 57	#15 Posted: 17/9/2006 - 18:10 Message for Hiong - Tropical Pricing Tropical Sails Pricing (double) 2-day: Beach time and Cave exploration on Cat Ba o/night on boat =========================================== Without kayak $97.00 With kayak $110.00 3-day: 3days - 2 nights on boat ==================== Beach time (all day) - $205 Viet Hai (all day) - $215 Kayaking (all day) - $235 These are really luxury boats - not some rat traps that aren't fit to cast off. The two day sail is comparable with Handspan - who now have two pricing options - bowels and upper deck. Saitamaints: Good tout. Helpful? 0
paulontheroad newbie Posts: 2	#16 Posted: 1/10/2006 - 17:52 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Hi, I'd just like to support the point made about Ocean Tours. I came back yesterday (30/9/06) from the 2 day tour and it was excellent. The price I paid was $49.90 but this has gone up $10 dollars from tomorrow I understand. Despite this I think that this is still a great value deal. All the best Paul Helpful? 0
brinner backpacker Posts: 20	#17 Posted: 6/10/2006 - 09:48 Hi, I would recommend Ocean Tours also. I went with it because of the reviews that I read here. I did the 3 day tour. The junk was in good condition and the food was nice. The staff were all friendly and the tour guide was good. The best part (only applicable to the 3 day tour) is that they have their own island rather than staying at Cat Ba and the bungalows on the beach are really nice and it is really peacful as only the group you are with are on the beach. It cost $75 but that price is going to go up to $95 as they are relatively new and this is a promotional offer. Helpful? 0
ryanssmith longtail driver Posts: 5	#18 Posted: 15/10/2006 - 23:02 We did a one night tour on the Tropical Sails junk Dragon's Pearl in July - approx US$100 each via Handspan. Turned out we were on the bay during the remnants of a tropical storm, so didn't see much through the driving rain! Certainly not the operator's fault. The boat was in good condition, especially compared to some of the others on the bay (junk may not be a misnomer). We had requested vegetarian food for the trip, and were served such dishes as a bowl of mushrooms and deep fried corn kernels as the rest of our table received heaping plates of fresh seafood. The food was a disappointment. Also be aware that because the bay is a World Heritage Site, junks are not allowed to anchor willy nilly at night, and you will be squashed into a tiny bay with (from my count) at least 40 other vessels all running their generators. Not really what we expected. Must say, however, that we have family in Ha Noi who have been on the Dragon's Pearl several times and had wonderful experiences, particularly compared to some other operators. They didn't mind the fried corn so much. Helpful? 0
ryanssmith longtail driver Posts: 5	#19 Posted: 15/10/2006 - 23:04 Just to clarify, I absolutely support collecting the junks in one place at night to anchor - would be nice if they used battery power instead of rattling diesel generators. Helpful? 0
janduine longtail driver Posts: 9	#20 Posted: 17/10/2006 - 17:20 I've booked with Et Pumpkin (two days, sleep on boat) for the first half of November. Anyone has any experience with this agency; sofar the information I received is OK. Second question is: will the weather (generally spoken) be OK for swimming in this time of year? Helpful? 0
Kyla newbie Posts: 1	#21 Posted: 26/10/2006 - 17:52 I've just finished an Ocean Tours trip to Halong Bay based on the recommendations from here, and they totally lived up to expectations. The junk that you travel on is very clean, you don't have to pay extra for a/c, which I've heard that some other tours will ask, and staying on the private island is just brilliant. I would recommend them 100%. Helpful? 0
somtam2000 admin mahout Posts: 5181 Located in: Global Village	#22 Posted: 29/10/2006 - 17:25 Ok the Ha Long bay stories are now on the site - what began as a brief story has exploded into a five part series! There's a lot to read -- but we hope you find it of use. The first Ha Long Bay story is here, and there's links within it to the others. Helpful? 0 ------------------------------ Siem Reap and Angkor Wat on your iPhone
tgekchoo newbie Posts: 3	#23 Posted: 30/10/2006 - 10:33 i've booked the 2 days ha long bay tour through Hanoi Backpackers Hostel on mid nov,not sure which tour agency they put us in,hopefully is ocean tour.Why the ocean tour increase the fees from 49.90 to 59.90 usd?Is it the common practice during year end for all tour agencies? those who has joined ocean tour before,pls let me know which cave they go to?The 2 hours kayaking is it around the boat or going through the tunnels and cave? Thank you Helpful? 0
Georgie backpacker Posts: 14	#24 Posted: 30/10/2006 - 12:03 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). We booked with Ocean Tours yesterday and as far as I am aware the cave is def Surprising Cave and you kayak around a cave/tunnels. We are doing a three day but I assume two-day is the same. Helpful? 0
Georgie backpacker Posts: 14	#25 Posted: 3/11/2006 - 17:53 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Halong Bay 3-day trip with Ocean Tours We have just returned from this trip and I thought I would add my opinions. The boat was good quality, the rooms fine and quiet. The food was plentiful and good quality and the guide was friendly with reasonable English. You kayak in the Hidden cave and visit the Amazing/Surprsing cave. Plus you can kayak at the island - the stay here makes the whole trip more than worth it over other tours as Cat Ba looks a bit grotty from a distance. The island is so lovely we stayed an extra day there ($42). The price in November is $95 but it will go up to $115 in the new year. But... if you want to cycle back over Cat Ba Island you must have three people at least. We paid to do this ($20 extra) and then couldn't because there weren't enough people. Also don't try and do anything off-schedule, one couple paid $100 to have a private boat and guide to take them to the pearl farms and when they got there they weren't allowed in. They got 50% back with a fight but were dissapointed understandably. Numbers vary a lot, we had 10 people of which 7 did 3 days, the day before was fully boooked and the next day there were only three people. Our group was great and everyone got on well. Drinks are more on the boat - 20,000 for a Tiger, 15,000 for Hanoi beer, 10,000 for soft drinks but if you buy them beforehand you will be charged 5,000 for every can you open in the dining area - hence we all drank in the dark on the roof! On the kayaking no lifejackets were offered and the guide didn't watch the group very well but there are lifejackets on the island. Take a kayak round the corner of the island and there is another beach that catches the sun in the afternoon. Hope some of that is helpful if you are thinking of using them. There's always a bit of bullshit involved but all in all we had a great time and it is totally relaxing. Helpful? 0
hero1 newbie Posts: 2	#26 Posted: 26/2/2007 - 04:01 Has anyone had any experience with Sunshine Tours? Web site looks great & prices reasonable but after reading everyones posts, caution needs to be exercised. We are leaving for Vietnam Mar 6 & expect to be in Hanoi Mar 20. Any advice appreciated. Helpful? 0
janduine longtail driver Posts: 9	#27 Posted: 27/2/2007 - 03:41 We went last November on a two days'trip, sleep one night on boat, with Et Pumpkin. Really enjoyed it. Maybe it is not the most luxury boat, but nevertheles quite good, certainly when considering the price of USD 30. We had a nice two person cabin with toilet/shower. We went swimming (day one and in the morning day two)and kayakking. Transport to and from HB was OK. On the night of our return in Hanoi we travelled by Et Pumpkin night train to Sapa for a three days' stay (one night with local people) Also very well organised. In Sapa we had our flight from Hanoi to Danang/Hoi Ann booked by Et Pumpkin as well. On his free Sunday afternoon Mr. Khuyen came to the office to ensure everything was well organised and to put us on the taxi to the airport. Altogether, we can really recommend this agency. Their address is: No 89 - Ma May Str - Hanoi. Their website http://www.et-pumpkin.com Helpful? 0
pvhaa longtail driver Posts: 7	#28 Posted: 2/3/2007 - 16:32 For a unique high-end experience, book passage aboard the Emeraude -- a copy of a French steamer that once plied these waters in the early 20th century. Certainly the largest boat at 55m (180 ft.), the elegant Emeraude has 38 cabins, a fine-dining outlet, and plenty of room to stretch your legs. The luxury trip comes with a price tag, of course, but the 2-day, 1-night cruise is well worth it. Leaving Hanoi at 8am, you'll check in at the private Emeraude pier and be shuttled to the boat. Before checking in to your cabin, you'll enjoy welcome drinks and a quick orientation. Compact, as ship cabins always are, onboard rooms are decked out in hardwood, with nice fixtures like air-conditioning, a private reading lamp, slippers for shuffling about the decks, and a tidy, compact bathroom area with toilet, shower, and a separate room for a small sink stand. Everything onboard is retro, which means pleasing hardwood, brass, and fine linens. The oversize wicker chairs on the top deck are cozy, and you'll find shaded areas as well as sun-worshipping space. A casual, friendly atmosphere pervades, especially when the corks start popping. Dining onboard is a delicious buffet, and most guests find themselves sharing a meal with new friends. Lunch on day 1 is followed by a stop at the Surprise Cave, then an afternoon of cruising and great views of the islands. The boat docks in a quiet harbor and guests have an opportunity to, on their own or with a guide, explore nearby Trinh Nu and Hang Trong, the Virgin Cave and the Cave of the Winds, or take a dip in the bay. The back of the boat is low in the water and there is a sturdy ladder making it easy to get on and off (the adventurous will join the crew for dives off the upper decks). Dinner is a sumptuous affair of fine local cuisine (heavy on seafood) and good Western options. Enjoy drinks on the upper deck as you watch the moonlight glisten off the bay. Day 2 starts with tai chi classes on the sun deck as a brilliant sunrise paints its colors on the arching canvas of high limestone peaks jutting from the glassy waters. Blissful. After your exercise, tuck in to a hearty Western-style breakfast. The boat returns to the dock by 9:30am, and a direct transfer finds you back in Hanoi by lunchtime. The trip is quite memorable, and a ride on this retro ship, outfitted to the nines, is unique to Halong Bay. The price for the overnight cruise is $290 for a luxury cabin for two and $490 for the one-suite room, but discounts for larger groups are available. Transfer from Hanoi costs $100 for a four-seat vehicle. Check the website at www.emeraude-cruises.com or call the offices at the Press Club in Hanoi (tel. 04/934-0888; fax 04/934-0899). Helpful? +1
somtam2000 admin mahout Posts: 5181 Located in: Global Village	#29 Posted: 2/3/2007 - 17:41 pvhaa -- are you associated with Emeraude? Helpful? 0 ------------------------------ Siem Reap and Angkor Wat on your iPhone
manyjays newbie Posts: 1	#30 Posted: 12/3/2007 - 11:49 Recommend Ocean tours; 49.00USD 2 day cruise with kayaking. Sensational on-board accommodation; life-jackets supplied for kayaking...fabulous food, wonderful caves amazing kayaking even for the relatively unfit. Bus to and from comfortable. One of the best value trips I have ever undertaken. Highly recommended! Helpful? 0
CatBa adventurer Posts: 349	#31 Posted: 14/3/2007 - 09:04 Rules (suggested) for booking a cruise are: (1) Ownership of the boat-and book through them; (2) Where do you overnight - NEVER at a hotel; (3) Do they tie up with other ships at night? (movement of rats and security) (4) When does the power go off (some turn the lights off at 23.00H); (5) Who does the cooking (do you really want a seaman who works on the boat to double up as your cook?) (6) Safety equipment - emergency beacon radio, lifeboats, lifejackets. Tropical Sails < http://tropical-sails.com > and Emeraude < http://www.emeraude-cruises.com/ > both OWN and OPERATE their own boats. Handspan and others who claim to 'own' boats actually just dump you on the first one that has space. Helpful? 0
shinbi newbie Posts: 1	#32 Posted: 20/3/2007 - 19:00 Just came back from a week long Vietnam tour. Joined an "ocean tour" but Iam still in doubt if its the real ocean tour. First, we were picked up by an old Pajero type vehicle instead of a bus or van. Second, there were only 3 of us in the tour. We kept on asking if there were other people joining us from the time we hop in the car but the tour guide just can't answer us straight until the junk was about to leave the port. Lastly, when we arrived the port area i saw a real ocean bus tour bus :( The guide speak real bad english. Also when we mentioned about doing some kayaking the guide said its not included. But we insisted since its part of the itinerary given to us. So having no choice they offered us 2 old looking kayak boats and filthy lifejackets (w/c they didnt hand out until I insisted on having one) The most annoying part was the entire boat crew were hanging around the dining area the entire evening watching vcd. It was so noisy you can hardly have a quiet relax time in the boat. So would it be safe to conclude that it is a fake Ocean tour? My friend is still convincing herself that its the real thing. Helpful? 0
stephka longtail driver Posts: 7	#33 Posted: 24/3/2007 - 18:30 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Oww, ow, ooh, ooh, I wish I had read this sooner. We just got burned when we signed on for the Halong Bay tour with our hotel, and then we realized that the hotel had lied to us big time. Then I read this, and we decided to cancel that tour and went with Sunshine (the real one). Yeah, we moved hotels too. We leave day after tomorrow, and even though we lost money by canceling, I'm glad we did, because I know this will be better. After all, we have our kids with us. We chose the midpriced tour. Incidently, the agency we canceled had the name "Sinh" in their name, but the real one is not located in the north VN. I never knew I could be so green, but Hanoi is a minefield of dishonest tour operators, and the fun begins the second you get off the plane and into a taxi. You cannot travel here without a guidebook. Helpful? 0
manna backpacker Posts: 15	#34 Posted: 31/3/2007 - 01:16 Does anyone know where exaclty the Ocean Tours offices are in Hanoi? Someone mentioned there are locations in the Old Quarter and at the Hanoi Backpacker's Hostel but does anyone have an address? I can't seem to find anything online. Helpful? 0
daawgon tuk tuk driver Posts: 221	#35 Posted: 17/4/2007 - 01:37 I suggest you read this very informative comparison of Halong Bay tours: http://tinyurl.com/2stqxn Helpful? 0
LionelHutz longtail driver Posts: 7	#36 Posted: 18/4/2007 - 08:21 We went with Handspan for US$100 twin share. An expensive part of an otherwise frugal trip but totally worth it. The boat was brilliant, the cabins were really comfortable, the food was indescribable - some of the best we ate in Vietnam and there was about 7 courses for lunch and 9 for dinner. Also Handspan itself was really organised and professional, which is highly unusual for a Vietnamese travel agency. I have also seen a magazine article on the Emeraude and it looks extraordinary. Helpful? 0
moving2008 newbie Posts: 4	#37 Posted: 13/10/2007 - 14:46 hI all, going to vietnam in march.Can anyone suggest good tour for mekong river preferrabily one cruise. which is the best tour operator and roughly the cost. Thanks Helpful? 0
moving2008 newbie Posts: 4	#38 Posted: 13/10/2007 - 14:51 Hi again,after some suggestions of the must sees in Vietnam in 10-12 days and best way to travel,train or bus. Need all the help I can get. Appreciate any help thanks Helpful? 0
kptn82 longtail driver Posts: 9	#39 Posted: 23/10/2007 - 11:47 Ocean Tours website http://www.oceantours.com.vn/default.aspx?cate1=1 Head Office Add: 22 Hang Bac Str., Hanoi - Vietnam Tel : +84. 4. 926 0463 Fax : +84. 4. 926 05 02 Helpful? 0
korndamned longtail driver Posts: 6	#40 Posted: 23/10/2007 - 19:57 Hello! My first post here. I highly recommend Vega Tours, http://www.vega-travel.com/ I basically had them sort out my 2 weeks in Vietnam last year. Mr. Kien the Manager is one helpful dude. Helpful? 0
seahmj backpacker Posts: 13	#41 Posted: 18/5/2008 - 09:55 I am planning to book a tour 2 Day 1 Night with Sinhcafe over at their Hanoi Branch. Its stated on their website saying it only cost US$34.30 which include AC bus, boat trip , guide, meals, entrance fees, accommodation. Note: $6/per is added for air conditioned or single room This is their Itinery: ============================================= Day 1: Ha Long - Cat Ba AM: 7h30 Depart for Halong. Arrive at 11h30, lunch at restaurant. PM: - (Big gourp) then talking cruising boat to visit THIEN CUNG & DAU GO caves, continuing 03 hrs cruising to CAT BA island, check in and have dinner. Free time. - (Small group) Boat trip to Cat Ba island, on the way visit SUNGSOT caves, Check in and have dinner. Free time. Day 2: Cat Ba - Ha Long - Ha Noi AM: Boat trip back to Ha Long Bay, lunch. PM: Return to Ha Noi. Arrive Ha Noi about 17:00 ============================================== Do you think this is a good tour? Enough to cover the essential of Halong Bay and surroundings? Helpful? 0
jdedeaux1369 newbie Posts: 1	#42 Posted: 13/10/2008 - 11:33 I need to know of good Halong 3 day tours for nov 2008mahalo and thanks. Helpful? 0
elenacat23 newbie Posts: 3	#43 Posted: 12/3/2009 - 10:10 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Most of these posts on here are pretty old, so I thought I would add my two cents from my recent trip to Halong Bay. After spending all day looking around at various travel agencies and trying to find a good one, I booked a tour with Vega Travel (who I had read good things about on here). It was 3 day/2 night for $106. However, the night before I was to leave on the tour, someone from Vega dropped by my hotel to tell me, "Sorry, it's canceled." They said the engine broke on the boat but who knows the real reason. So they said they would give me my money back, but wanted to give me Dong even though I pad in USD. After a little bit of struggle, I got my dollars back. Then I rushed out to find a new tour with room leaving the next day. Once again looking at suggestions on here, I booked a 3 day/2 night tour with ODC for $110. They were great! Would definitely recommend them to anyone. The tour guide was friendly and informative and wonderful, food was amazing (they even helped with special requests, since I don't eat beef and pork), the boat was clean, quiet and comfortable. We paid a little more than some other friends, but we also got to do more things. Where they spent half the day just hanging out at Cat Ba, we got to go on a trek to a small village, kayaking, etc. Anyway, just thought I would throw out some newer info. Hope this helps anyone planning a trip! Helpful? 0
betnytownsend newbie Posts: 1	#44 Posted: 9/4/2009 - 07:46 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). I went on the Hanoi Backpacker's Hostel 3-day trip, and it was fantastic. It was $89.50 for all transportation, a night on the boat, and a night at a nice hotel on Cat Ba Island. What really made the trip was the hostel guide AJ. He is an incredibly funny, talented guy, who could be doing all sorts of amazing things but has somehow ended up leading this tour and does an absurdly good job of it. He consistently went above and beyond to make sure everyone enjoyed themselves, regardless of whether we were on our amazing 3-hour kayaking trip or playing drinking games on the boat. IF YOU GO ON THIS TRIP ASK FOR AJ AT THE HOSTEL. He should be leading these trips for another few months, and does them often, so it's worth the ask! Aside from AJ being awesome, the boat was nice, safe, and even had hot showers. Way better than expected. Same goes for the food. Really an instance of getting what you pay for. Definitely do the 3-day, it is a far better value, and you get to go trekking on Cat Ba Island, and then have another half day to explore (we rented motorbikes which are super cheap). It's a very social tour (aimed at backpackers), so you can party all you want, but can also just chill and relax if that's what you prefer. I'm not normally one to go for the organized tour, but this was definitely a good call! Helpful? +1
tingers flashpacker Posts: 36	#45 Posted: 9/4/2009 - 13:33 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). hi all - just thought i'd add my opinion on the ha long bay tours. i live in hanoi and have done quite a few of these trips with friends that have come to visit. we've usually booked through budget places and had mixed results - it's a bit of a lucky dip in terms of service/boats/food/inclusions/drink prices etc. this time round we decided to go for a mid-range trip and were very happy with the outcome. we booked it through a company in hanoi called 'columbus' (http://www.columbuscruise.com/) - their boat is called the pinta, which, they told us, they own. the trip cost $97 for a 2 day / 1 night tour and was really, really good value. excellent food and service on board, the boat itself is very nice - great rooms, nice dining area etc. drinks were pretty reasonable as well ($1.50 for beers, not sure about the wine though). highlight of the tour had to be the kayaking trip on the second morning. really good fun. we went through caves and paddled up to a floating village and stopped for a chat with the locals (guide was translating for us obviously). got some great photos here. the weather was crap (march) but you can't help that. another thing worth mentioning about this company is the transport. every other trip i've done out to halong has involved a 3-4 hour ride in a van packed with luggage and people. not so this time. there was only 17 of us in the van, and we all had plenty of space. still don't know how those drivers cope with the road out there though! Helpful? 0
tingers flashpacker Posts: 36	#46 Posted: 9/4/2009 - 13:40 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). hi all - just thought i'd add my opinion on the ha long bay tours. i live in hanoi and have done quite a few of these trips with friends that have come to visit. we've usually booked through budget places and had mixed results - it's a bit of a lucky dip in terms of service/boats/food/inclusions/drink prices etc. this time round we decided to go for a mid-range trip and were very happy with the outcome. we booked it through a company in hanoi called 'columbus' (http://www.columbuscruise.com/) - their boat is called the pinta, which, they told us, they own. the trip cost $97 for a 2 day / 1 night tour and was really, really good value. excellent food and service on board, the boat itself is very nice - great rooms, nice dining area etc. drinks were pretty reasonable as well ($1.50 for beers, not sure about the wine though). highlight of the tour had to be the kayaking trip on the second morning. really good fun. we went through caves and paddled up to a floating village and stopped for a chat with the locals (guide was translating for us obviously). got some great photos here. the weather was crap (march) but you can't help that. another thing worth mentioning about this company is the transport. every other trip i've done out to halong has involved a 3-4 hour ride in a van packed with luggage and people. not so this time. there was only 17 of us in the van, and we all had plenty of space. still don't know how those drivers cope with the road out there though! Helpful? 0
damiancd newbie Posts: 3	#47 Posted: 2/8/2009 - 17:48 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Hello everybody!!! you can find quite cheap tour to halong bay for 3 days and 2 nights.. as cheap as 34 dollars..... expet be treated like cow and always the same food change boat few time,change of itinerary,not doing all you be promised,wait for hours to get on the bus and boat,and so on.... one advise make sure you don't go with AZ Queen Travel. so even if you buy it from an agency or hotel make sure they don't contract taht company. why? just an example: the boat is for 16 people,well they put 25 they force u to give them the passport(which is illigal, we gave them a Photocopy of the details and the visa) so at the end of the tour they will ask u to pay some money for any reason they made up; even so some people gave them the original one and 4 people got it stolen.. so never leave money ,camera or passport anywhere even if they tell otherwise...not only the people on our boat got their belongins stolen but many more we met and the last one cat bat national park is not worth it; only mud and trees... hopefully you have a better expirience!!! Helpful? 0
splashtree backpacker Posts: 19	#48 Posted: 26/9/2009 - 21:25 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). the last post looks a little suspect to me. english grammer not great, brand new poster and (i know like me) posting from within vietnam. im just saying, just my 1st thought. Previous post has been deleted -- thanks im in hanoi at moment and went to both odc and handspan and didnt end up booking with either. not going to say who i booked with yet as i will leave a report in a few days Helpful? 0
Rohan tourist Posts: 60	#49 Posted: 3/11/2009 - 17:20 And I echo Splashmore's comments with respect to the last post. Sorry to the OP if it is genuine, but a user with 2 posts posting from Vietnam plugging a travel agency using poor grammer and with nothing about thier actual experiences? Looks a bit suspicious. Helpful? 0
cocodemer newbie Posts: 1	#50 Posted: 18/11/2009 - 08:32 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Hi Just thought id add my 2000 dongs worth, as I found the info on here very useful, definately helped us book onto a great tour We booked a 3 day/2 night tour with Vega travel ~(their offices are in the old town, just down the road from Hanspan on Pa Ma May - around the corner from the new Ocean tours office) We went with them due to reading about the nasty tales of really cheap tours, and they were the cheapest of the ones which have been recommended here - ocean tours is now more expensive, and handspan were about $190 if i remember right. The tour cost $106 (we paid by credit card and it converted into £67 for any brits) It was a really great trip all round, no worries at all, we were picked up by Vega travels own mini bus, which was nice air conned, and we had 12 folk on the trip - as promised, no more than 12 at any point. Taken to Halong to have lunch on their own Junk, was very nice, and really spacious due to the low number of folk, very tasty lunch, good seafood, and plenty of it, We went for a guided tour of the surprising cave, followed by a climb up to a viewpoint for a great view of halong bay, then some kayaking, life jackets included:)Then we had another great meal, followed by relatively cheap beers (20000), and bed. really great crack, it was a nice bunch of folk but thats just your luck i guess, but the boat crew were real nice too. Next day was also good, up early for breakfast and then we switched boats to a smaller junk (not owned by vega) and off for an excellent 2 1/2 hour jungle hike through Cat Ba national park, definately bring some fairly sturdy shoes, this was a highlight of the trip for me, scrambling up and over some relativly technical rocky paths, i thought it was ace, and it was the general consensus. Back to the boat for a much needed swim,and then lunch. All this was great, altough as the second boat was not owned by vega, the guide was saying they sometimes have stuff go missing, so keep an eye on valuables. Sure enough, someone later noticed they had lost some money, and they suspected it was when we were all in swimming, as they had bags and stuff with them all other times. Dont know what you can do about this, although big notes are plastic, so you could take them in a pocket. We were then taken over to CatBa island, and checked into a very nice hotel, big and airy with a great free breakfast on day 3 - all you could imagine buffett. For the last part of day 2 your time is free. We went to cat ba beach number 2, 5 mins from the hotel. dinner is not included on day 2 not a heap to do in cat ba town, seems like a bit of a ghost town considering all the tours that overnight here. Still food was good and cheap, beer was cold. Back to halong about midday for lunch which was again very plentiful. Over riding memory of the trip is exactly what the whole point of a trip is, how F in beautiful the place is, and also being well and truly stuffed every mealtime. Bus back to hanoi, home by 5 which was what they said. So I think it was a great trip, felt good value to me, Im thinking that tour prices have gone up a fair bit in the last couple of years? dont know though. We were staying at the hanoi guesthouse on Bat Su street and we met a couple who did the hotel organised tour. This cost $40 for 3 days, and we met them a couple of times on the trip, they said it was fantastic, they went mountain biking insead iof hiking, and were subjected to karaoke on night 1, but they were staying in the same hotel as us on day 2, so i guess its sometimes down to luck. Hanoi guesthouse is a great place to stay BTW! hope this is useful to someone, I definately think that vega had pitched it just right, great guide, very friendly, professional outfit, with their own transport,and a good mix of folk on the trip, Helpful? 0
KazAussie tuk tuk driver Posts: 151	#51 Posted: 19/11/2009 - 18:23 Okay, I am now really confused about Halong Bay trips........... I want a junk with no more than 20 people, do not want to spend time transferring from one boat to another, want to do two nights three days, it takes my fancy to do tai chi in the morning and fishing or something else in the evening, any suggestions? Helpful? 0
ngatin2 newbie Posts: 2	#52 Posted: 19/11/2009 - 19:13 kazaussie when is your cruise? I hope not during winter, otherwise you'll freeze stretching your arms and might request physical therapist doing tai chi in the morning in halong bay. Tai chi at 6 am in the sundeck, hope you enjoy your trip Helpful? 0
toxic8 backpacker Posts: 13	#53 Posted: 29/11/2009 - 02:52 Ha Long Bay is making my head spin already - and I'm still in NY. Should be in Hanoi on the 23rd and heading to Ha Long Bay shortly. After wading through plenty of murky posts I think it's down to either doing it ourselves (my girl and I), or going with betny's suggestion: "I went on the Hanoi Backpacker's Hostel 3-day trip, and it was fantastic. It was $89.50..." I'll try to grab the recommended guide, AJ, for the tour. Will report back ... real soon P.S. If anyone wants to link up around that time with two chill twenty somethings don't be shy! Helpful? 0
roynolan noodle lady Posts: 42	#54 Posted: 29/11/2009 - 17:38 has anybody had a good day trip to Halong bay and can recommend a company. Unfortunately we only have a day free to go. thanks Helpful? 0
daw longtail driver Posts: 5	#55 Posted: 15/12/2009 - 07:42 Hi, I want to add my recommendations for Columbus Cruises http://www.columbuscruise.com. We had a spacious minibus trip down to Ha Long bay with only 12 of us, all luggage was stowed at the front with the tour guide. The boat was great with wet towel and fruit cocktail being offered by waiters each time we returned to the boat. I was a little dismayed at the shear number of cruise boats waiting to pick up passengers when we arrived and this number didn't disperse much when we anchored for a cave visit. However despite being in a bit of a queue for the cave our tour guide didn't rush us through and we soon found it had thinned out and we could look around much more. As we motored on for our evening resting spot the crowds thinned out though and we felt more isolated with only 3/4 boats in view come morning. The food we had on board was great, although a complaint I heard was they fed us too much. We had plenty of course covering different types of food and they also catered for one of our group who doesn't eat some shell fish. The cabin was great, I didn't need air-con being Nov but it was available. Cabins had windows on side of boat so we could enjoy the view and shower with toiletries were provided. A nice touch, but a bit wasted on me travelling as a single, were the rose petals scattered in a heart shape on the bed. My highlight had to be the kayaking where we went through a couple of tunnels and into a cave. We were also able to spot wild monkey's on the kayaking trip but don't think Columbus actually organised that :) When we returned to Ha Noi as I was flying out later that evening I declined a lift to my hotel however they offered a complimentary car to the airport for. Looking at the prices mentioned here they are not the cheapest outfit available but I thought they were excellent value. I was very nervous of the trip to Ha Long Bay given the negative reviews however I had a magical time and fully recommend Columbus. David Helpful? +1
tigershark15 backpacker Posts: 11	#56 Posted: 16/12/2009 - 11:17 Hi David, We only have seven days to spend when we visit Hanoi in the second week of January. Do you think three days would be enough for our visit in Halong Bay, which means we will have two nights of cruising? Would you like also to recommend a good hotel to stay in Hanoi where we spend the rest of our time? We would prefer one that has internet with a budget of $60? We would like to stay in the Old Quarter near the Hoan Kiem Lake, where my mom can have a walk in the morning and before dusk. Helpful? 0
daw longtail driver Posts: 5	#57 Posted: 17/12/2009 - 09:25 Hi Newbie, I have only experience of 2 day 1 night cruising which I found to be suitable although I was on a tight time constraint. Columbus, that I mention, do a 2 night 3 day with the extra time spent on the beach with a BBQ meal returning to the boat for dinner and sleeping the other people on the boat that took that option all reported good things. I know other company's will provide accommodation on the island for the 2nd night although I have not read good reviews of the accommodation just the activities. I can't recommend a hotel in Ha Noi I'm afraid as I didn't spend a night there instead spending my nights on trains going to and from Sa Pa. I can recommend the two day 1 night trekking from Sa Pa though, however this is off topic for this thread. Hope this helps, David Helpful? 0
daw longtail driver Posts: 5	#58 Posted: 17/12/2009 - 09:39 ops it shows I am a newbie as I should have addressed comment to tigershark15. :-) Helpful? 0
tigershark15 backpacker Posts: 11	#59 Posted: 18/12/2009 - 10:00 To err is human, so they say. So it's OK, daw. You've been very helpful. That's more important. Can't wait to go in Halong Bay. My mom has another question about Pinta Gold. Is the water rough during the cruise? Helpful? 0
daw longtail driver Posts: 5	#60 Posted: 18/12/2009 - 10:12 Thanks, more than happy to share as I have gained a lot of insight from this forum on planning my trip. I can only go from my experience where the water was not rough and we cruised at such a steady and sedate pace it was hardly noticeable we were afloat, apart from the ever-changing vista from the windows or over the rail. My Mum is not a good water traveller but on my experience I would certainly take her on such a trip. I must say though that reading else where trips have been cancelled due to poor weather and even cyclones can hit this area. However January is in the middle of the Dry Season so you should be ok. David Helpful? 0
bristol backpacker Posts: 13	#61 Posted: 28/12/2009 - 09:56 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Short but lovely review, Daw. I am planning to take a cruise to Halong overnight in January 4. So I'm very glad to hear that January is the middle of the Dry Season. Also I read a lot good reviews about Columbus travel and their Pinta Gold, I at first just intend to 2 day 1 night cruising but now I am considering about a 2 night 3 day with the extra time spent on the beach with a BBQ meal returning to the boat for dinner. Helpful? 0
rubic longtail driver Posts: 9	#62 Posted: 27/2/2010 - 11:11 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Why don't your try ODC Travel? They operate new tour for 2010 with many exciting activities on their own operation. You can save your money as its tour price is lower than some other ones but the standard is really good,a reliable choice for those who want to join a Halong bay tour among other names.My foreign friend has come back from Halong Bay and she felt very pleasant. Helpful? 0 ------------------------------ treat people the way you want to be treated
gohlayhuah longtail driver Posts: 8	#63 Posted: 11/3/2010 - 20:04 Hi, I've posted elsewhere in this forum that I am travelling to Hanoi this June and I enquired about Columbus Pinta Cruiser. so since you are all discussing about it, that interests me a lot. Would appreciate feedback of your experiences. Got a reply from Columbus Pinta Cruiser quotation for US$89 for 2 days 1 night in the junk, which I gather is the normal price. A couple of questions: 1)Does the boat rock a lot at night or when sailing? I'm kinda the seasick type :), but well, I always believe in experiencing at least once, and 2)Since I am there at the hottest time of the year (and this year appears to be record high temps) do the rooms in the junk come with air cond (FOC or pay?)? 3)Does anybody have any other same quality offer that can beat Pinta Cruiser? Thanks in advance! Helpful? 0
rawjer longtail driver Posts: 10	#64 Posted: 11/3/2010 - 22:38 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). Hey gohlayhuah, I saw that you checked out my full, itinerary, and photos of my recent Halong Bay cruise, and thanks for the comment. It's here in case anyone else is interested: http://www.priceoftravel.com/154/halong-bay-prices-full-itinerary-photos-and-review-of-a-3-star-one-night-cruise/ To answer these questions, the bay itself seems to be dead still. There wasn't even the slightest rocking while cruising or anchored at night. There was an A/C unit in my cabin so I imagine that's pretty standard, at least on the nicer ships. As I mention in that article, I paid US$68 which included a US$15 single supplement for a private room. When I researched on the web I found prices for 3-star cruises to be close to $100 per person, but once in Hanoi I was getting quotes closer to $60 per person for the nicer cruises, assuming you are sharing a cabin. If price is an issue then I think you can do a lot better once in Hanoi. And for what it's worth, I was very satisfied with Cristina Cruises just a few weeks ago. Helpful? +1
gohlayhuah longtail driver Posts: 8	#65 Posted: 12/3/2010 - 09:38 Hi Roger! Thanks for reply and all the good-to-know tidbits. Frankly, I'm getting info overload from all the surfing and I'm reduced to indecisiveness. :). Thing is, we are only 5 short days in N. Vn, so we cannot afford the time to go tour shopping - I think. Question: Is it cheaper to sign direct to cruise company, or cheaper to go through ground tour agent? Also, mind if I ask about Sapa? Have also got tons of info on that. But based on your experience, would you advise a middle aged cautiously adventurous couple to go on their own, or to sign on a tour package? Thanks! Helpful? 0
daw longtail driver Posts: 5	#66 Posted: 12/3/2010 - 10:22 Hi, I had posted before about Columbus and whilst there are cheaper options I found them very good and thought they offered fair value for money. I concur with Roger on the stability only noticing we were afloat by looking out the window, however I have read in other posts that cruises get cancelled due to storms so guess it might not always be like that. We also had air-con in the cabins and the crew offered to come and show us how to operate given the controls were in Chinese, there was no additional charge for their usage. I organised my cruise whilst in Sa Pa by email and turned up at their office on the day of departure, however with many of the cruise companies in close proximity it would be practical to do this on the ground instead. For Sapa my itinerary was as follows. Sat Night overnight train to Lao Cai -> Sun Morn minibus ride to Bac Ha Market -> Sun A'noon Bus back to Lao Cai & Bus to Sapa -> Mon Morn two day overnight trek with home stay -> Tue Evn Bus to Lao Cai & train to Ha Noi then Ha Long Bay starting Wed. I had nothing planned other than the idea of where I wanted to go and was able to organise everything easily when I got there. The mini bus was very easy to pick up from the train station but be careful for the price - I got burnt as I paid for a return but lessons learnt :-) The trek and home stay I organised via the Tourist Board in Sapa on the day, they leave about 9/10 am so get in early. This was great a quite a highlight of my trip. I found it all really easy to arrange and at 41 I wouldn't consider my self a youngster anymore however I was travelling on my own so perhaps that made it easier. David Helpful? +1
rawjer longtail driver Posts: 10	#67 Posted: 12/3/2010 - 12:29 Posted from within Vietnam (why do we highlight this?). gohlayhuah, For booking your Halong cruise in Hanoi you'll have your choice between a couple hundred stand-alone travel agencies, or the travel agency in your hotel. I don't know if you even can book through the cruise company unless the travel agency actually owns its own boats. As I mention in that article, it seems most people recommend booking through a stand-alone agency, but I actually booked through my hotel (the Prince II), partly since they actually quoted me a slightly lower price for the same exact cruise, and partly because I loved the hotel and its service so I'd rather throw them a bone with the commission instead of an agency full of people I've never met and will never see again. I'm quite confident that you can book the cruise once you arrive in Hanoi, as there seems to be hundreds of boats in the bay and they are probably never all full. The Sapa thing might be a bit tricky with your time frame. Trains here seem to sell out a day or two or three in advance, at least at busy times, so booking your Sapa trip once you get here runs a risk of not getting one of the better sleeper carriages on the day you want to go. The private cars are definitely nicer than the ones owned by the railway, and to me it was worth $25 instead of $17 for a reasonably comfortable bottom bunk in a 4-bunk cabin. Doing the Sapa trip from Hanoi is very easy (I'm 45 and traveling alone, by the way). You buy a ticket for a bunk on the train, which goes directly from Hanoi to Lao Cai, and once you arrive you'll have offers from at least a dozen drivers with minibuses headed to Sapa. I reserved a room at the wonderful Cat Cat View Hotel ahead of time, and right on their reservation form they ask if you want to be picked up at the train station. I chose that option and there was someone holding a sign with my name on it waiting for me, and it only cost 30,000-dong (about US$1.60) each way. Once you get to Sapa it's the same kind of thing, with loads of travel agencies in addition to the one at your hotel, and they all offer the same trips and outings at similar prices. Helpful? +1
gohlayhuah longtail driver Posts: 8	#68 Posted: 12/3/2010 - 14:29 Dear Roger and David, Heh Heh. I'm almost persuaded that my husband and I can do Sapa on our own, and we will do Halong with either Cristina Cruise or Columbus. Thanks very much. Wonderful to be able to get the true unbiased information from you all. I guess the fun in travelling comes also from trawling through the internet at the preparatory stage. You want to know anything about Kota Kinabalu Sabah, ask me and I shall return the favor. Cheers! GLH Helpful? 0