On these routes tourists can contemplate the beauty of many of the areas that have contributed to the recognition of Halong Bay, including two of the largest and most beautiful grottos in the bay: Thien Cung (Celestial Palace) grotto (covering 3,000 square meters) and Sung Sot (Surprise) grotto (covering 10,000 square meters).

Both grottos are divided into three chambers containing ornamental stalactites and stalagmites formed millions of years ago. The Sung Sot grotto is also known as “surprise” grotto because its third chamber suddenly opens to a large, monumental palace with natural works of rocks and stalactites.

Dinh Huong Islet, the icon of the bay that resembles an incense burner made of stone, and the Ga Choi Islet, an islet that looks like two fighting cock facing each other are also part of the tour.

After touring these beautiful spots there is time to relax at the beach of Titov Island, about 13 kilometers from Bai Chay Tourist Wharf.

The island was originally named Cat Nang. However, in 1962 President Ho Chi Minh and Russian astronaut Giecman Titov visited the island and Uncle Ho renamed it after the astronaut to mark the visit and the Vietnamese – Russian friendship.

The island offers sun-bathing on a sandy white beach on one side and a climb up to a watch-tower gazebo at about 100 meters above the sea level for a panoramic view of Halong Bay on the other side.

Tourists departing from HCMC could contact Vietravel Tourism Company, 190 Pasteur St., Dist. 3, HCMC, tel: (84.8) 3822 8898. The company offers tours from HCMC to the north, such as Hanoi – Yen Tu – Halong – Tuan Chau – Lao Cai – Sapa, Halong – Lang Son. There is also a new three-day two-night yacht cruise on Halong Bay which includes popular spots in Hanoi in the autumn, the most beautiful time of the year in the north, kayaking and fishing in the bay and spending a night on a three-star yacht. The tour is priced at VND7,859,000 per guest departing every Friday.

(Source: SGT)