Indochina Sails will participate in the International Tourism Exhibition " TUR 2010 at Göteborg ", the second-largest city in Sweden.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/04/2010 -- With Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Indochina Sails (http://www.indochinasails.com) will participate in the International Tourism Exhibition " TUR 2010 at Goeteborg " to be held from Mar 25 to 28 in Goteborg, the second-largest city in Sweden, 2010.

Indochina Sails express the desire to promote Luxury Cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam in the luxury segment, which is addressed to people who want to live a unique experience, with personalized service, privacy, tranquility and simplicity in World Heritage of Vietnam.

Indochina Sails is a subsidiary of Huong Hai Junks, one of the first companies to offer tourist cruising on Halong Bay, Vietnam.

Backed by 10 years experience hosting international guests on the tranquil waters of the bay, Indochina Sails have set a new standard for luxury cruising. The first company to offer overnight cruises on the bay, Indochina Sails is now widely known as the number one choice for discerning travelers, operating a fleet of four newly built wooden junks designed in time-honored traditional style, with contemporary and luxurious cabins and facilities.

Indochina Sails had the opportunity to serve Miss Universe Contest in 2008 as well as Indochina Sails have served hundreds thousand travelers from Europe include Swedish to Halong Bay, Vietnam.

TUR 2010 at Goeteborg
Name of attendee: Mrs. Le Phuong Nhi
Position: Director of Sales & Marketing
Stand No: A03:56
Email: customers-care@indochinasails.com
Website: http://www.indochinasails.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The mountainous town offers a glimpse into a world of mysterious minority cultures and luscious landscapes. The Red Dao, named for their colorful headdresses, take a break during the long trek to the market.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/24/2010 -- The Queen of the Mountains in Vietnam, Sapa, overlooks a beautiful valley with lofty mountains towering over the town on all sides. The spectacular scenery surrounding Sapa includes cascading rice terraces which spill down the mountains like a patchwork quilt. The mountains are often shrouded in mist that rolls back and forth along the peaks, offering tantalizing glimpses of what lies in wait on a clear day. The valleys and villages around Sapa are home to a host of hill-tribe people who wander around town buying, selling and trading.

Finding Neverland

It is quite easy to undertake day hikes through the valleys around Sapa without the assistance of a guide. However, for overnight stays in villages and longer treks into the mountains, it is advisable to hook up with a minority guide. There are endless beautiful places for trekking. The villages and the surrounding landscape are now part of Hoang Lien Reserve Park.

The nearest village within walking distance is Cat Cat, three kilometers to the south. Like other amazing inhabited areas, it's a steep and very beautiful hike down. This is a fantastic spot to witness the daily activities of minority group residents and admire the magic of nature while shopping for local handicrafts.

Another popular trek is to Ta Phin Village, home to Red Dao and about 10 kilometers from Sapa. There are also overnight community-based tours to the nearby H'mong village of Sin Chai that offer a chance to learn about textiles or music and dance. Other popular communities to visit include the Giay village of Ta Van and the Black H'mong village of Matra.

Surrounding Sapa is the Hoang Lien Mountain range, named the Tonkinese Alps by the French, at the tail end of the Himalaya. These mountains include Fansipan, not only Vietnam's highest peak but also the Indochina Peninsula's "roof" at a height of 3,143 meters.

The summit towers above Sapa, although it is often obscured by clouds and is occasionally dusted with snow. The peak is accessible all year to those in good shape and properly equipped but don't underestimate the challenge. It is very wet and can be perilously slippery and generally cold. However, some local wildlife such as donkeys, mountain goats and birds plus the unique beauty of nature offers explorers a memorable expedition.

Just a stone's throw from downtown Sapa to the foot of Ham Rong (Dragon Jaw) Mountain, the journey up to the peak provides a panoramic view of the whole Sapa where colorful wildflowers bloom almost all year round. Visitors to Ham Rong Mountain also have the chance to admire the orchid garden and numerous caves and stones in extraordinary shapes.

The incredible road between Sapa and Lai Chau crosses the Tram Ton Pass on the northern side of Fansipan, 15 kilometers from Sapa. At 1,900 meters, this is the highest mountain pass in Vietnam. Even if you are not planning to fully explore Vietnam's unique northwest, it is well worth coming up here to experience the incredible views from the top of this pass.

Alongside the road, about five kilometers toward Sapa, is Thac Bac (Silver Waterfall). With a height of 100 meters, it is one of the highest waterfalls in the country, and the loop track is steep and scenic.

Unique distinctions

The main attraction of this area, apart from its natural beauty, is Vietnam's largest concentration of ethnic groups including Red Dao, H'mong, Giay, Tay, Xa Pho, Kinh and Hoa. Their dress, buildings, traditions and lifestyles are a big magnet for visitors.

Sapa would be of considerably less interest without the H'mong and Dao people, the largest ethnic groups in the region. The billowing red headdresses of the Red Dao are visible all over town, a surreal sight amid the accelerating development. The H'mong are more numerous and canny traders. Their villages may look medieval but most will have a mobile phone and an email address to stay in touch. Traditionally, they were the poorest of the poor but have rapidly learnt the spirit of free enterprise. Most of the Montagnards have had little formal education and are illiterate, yet all the youngsters have a good command of English, French and a handful of other languages.

Sapa is also famous for its love market, which takes place on Saturday evenings. This cultural highlight used to be the place for tribal locals to find a partner and get married.

Tradition has it that young Red Dao hill tribes used to come to Sapa to sing songs to find their partners. Girls sang hidden in the dark and when a boy found them - if they liked each other - they disappeared into the forest for three days. Some of them got married after that.

But with the development of tourism, the real love market does not take place anymore. Currently visitors can only see a representation of the love market. Do not miss it, however, anyway if you are staying here on Saturday night.

Food, drinks and souvenir stores can be found near the stone church in the downtown area. The restaurants here offer a wide range of interesting Vietnamese and European meals at very affordable prices. The food is delicious and well-presented. The dining establishments also have respectable wine lists with French, South American and Australian wines, also at reasonable prices. The staff are very friendly and welcoming and usually speak quite good English.

With its beauty and unique lifestyle, Sapa is a rewarding destination where all the hustle of daily life vanishes.

Source: TN News

Recommendation in Sapa, Vietnam:
Sapa Travel Guide: http://www.trekfansipan.com/category/sapa-travel-guide
Sapa trekking and homestay: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=25
Trek Fansipan Mount, Sapa, Vietnam: http://www.trekfansipan.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

This trip offers a stunning motorcycling route with great exploration of nature and culture of northern Vietnam. The trip is organized for first time riders and easy adventure travelers.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/23/2010 -- The legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail was the supply line used by North Vietnam to link North and South Vietnam during the American War. Soldiers, ammunition, and supplies were carried by hand, bicycle and truck for hundreds of kilometers through the otherwise impenetrable jungle that covered Vietnam's mountainous border with Laos. A testimony to the ingenuity, fortitude and commitment of the northern Vietnamese, the trail slipped from use at the end of the war and was taken back by the jungle. Recent road work that follows original sections of the trail has changed this.

Start this trip in Hanoi, travelers have Hanoi city tour to visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the "Uncle Ho" house and other famous sight-seeings and a relaxing cyclo tour through the ancient part of Hanoi.

Next day, travelers take a short bus drive the Ho Chi Minh Trail Museum on the outskirts of Hanoi. After the visit to the museum travelers will jump on Minsk and spend sometime to get familiar with the bikes. Crossing two short mountains passes then descent to the mountain valley settlement of Mai Chau, travelers will have dinner and overnight in a stilt house of the Thai people.

Following day, travelers then head South on a beautiful winding road which follow the banks of the Ma River. After 2 hrs riding along the river travelers have a stop to see Fish Ferry Stream which is a great mystery of nature. It is a stream with thousand of big fish peacefully swimming in sallow water. Travelers jump into Ho Chi Minh Highway and head to Khanh village, which is home to Muong ethnic minority and overnight in a local house.

Last day, travelers we ride to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital on Vietnam which date back from 9th century. After here travelers have a stunning ride on village road to Tam Coc, which is called "Halong Bay on the rice field". Travelers will have a relaxing boat trip on river. After lunch travelers ride back to Hanoi

Promotion Validity is from May 1 to September 30, 2010

Promotion offers:
- Free-of-charge add on boat trip on Ma River in the afternoon day 1
- Free-of-charge traditional Thai musical show for group from 6 persons
- Free-of-charge silk sleeping bag
- Discount 40% of bike rental fee if upgrade to dirt bike 175CC, 250CC

More information at http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=34

More motorcycling tours: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=listByCategoryId&catId=8

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Once upon a time, soon after the Viet people established their country, invaders came...

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/22/2010 -- The Jade Emperor sent Mother Dragon and her Child Dragons down to earth to help the Viet people fight against their enemy.

Right at the time invaders' boats were rushing to the shore, the dragons landed down on earth. The dragons immediately sent out from their mouths a lot of pearls, which then turned into thousands of stone islands emerging in the sea like great walls challenging the invaders' boats.

The fast boats could not manage to stop and crashed into the islands and into each other and broke into pieces.

After the victory, Mother Dragon and Child Dragons believed this country to be so beautiful that they did not return Heaven but stayed on earth at the place where the battle had occurred.

The location Mother Dragon landed is now called Halong Bay and where Child Dragons descended is now Bai Tu Long.

The tails of dragons waving the water created Long Vi (present Tra Co peninsula) and formed a fine sand beach over ten kilometers long.

Every time I come to Vietnam, I try to see a part of the country that I do not know. Last trip, August 2009, I went north to World Heritage Site Ha Long Bay, in the Gulf of Tonkin. The photos speak for themselves.

Tomorrow, Friday, I will fly to the Central Highlands, to the ancient citadel of Hue. (I have been to Central Vietnam before, to the city of Da Nang and the ancient village of Hoi An.)

Sometimes I wonder, how did I get so lucky as to come to know this beautiful country and its compassionate people?

I am curious. Do you believe in luck? Do you ever marvel at your good fortune? Do you curse bad luck? Let me know if you get a chance.

Source: redravine.wordpress

Recommendation in Halong bay:

Halong bay cruise: http://www.indochinasails.com/

Halong bay kayaking: http://www.kayakhalongbay.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Indochina Sails will participate in the largest International Tourism Fair "ITB Berlin 2010" in Berlin, the Capital of Germany.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/11/2010 -- With Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Indochina Sails (http://www.indochinasails.com) will participate in the largest International Tourism Fair "ITB Berlin 2010" to be held from Mar 10 to 14 in Berlin, the Capital of Germany, 2010.

Indochina Sails express the desire to promote Luxury Cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam in the luxury segment, which is addressed to people who want to live a unique experience, with personalized service, privacy, tranquility and simplicity in World Heritage of Vietnam.

Indochina Sails is a subsidiary of Huong Hai Junks, one of the first companies to offer tourist cruising on Halong Bay, Vietnam.

Backed by 10 years experience hosting international guests on the tranquil waters of the bay, Indochina Sails have set a new standard for luxury cruising. The first company to offer overnight cruises on the bay, Indochina Sails is now widely known as the number one choice for discerning travelers, operating a fleet of four newly built wooden junks designed in time-honored traditional style, with contemporary and luxurious cabins and facilities.

Indochina Sails had the opportunity to serve President of Vietnam, Miss Universe Contest in 2008 as well as Indochina Sails have served so many travelers to Halong Bay.

ITB Berlin 2010
Attendee: Ms. Nguyen Thu Trang - Sales Manager
Booth Number: Booth 127, Hall 26A
Email: customers-care@indochinasails.com
Website: http://www.indochinasails.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Halong bay, so picture the scene. Strange karst mountains covered with greenery shoot up out of the water all around you.

Hanoi, Vietnam-- (SBWIRE) -- 02/03/2010 -- You're floating on an 80-foot junk in the middle of a spectacular bay. The air is warm and moist and perfectly pleasant, a nearly full moon shining brightly overhead.

And there you are, surrounded by fifteen drunk Europeans, Vietnamese vodka and singing karaoke at the top of their lungs to such songs as "Sweet Home Alabama," "New York, New York," and "Country Roads Take Me Home." And you're not alone, as there are dozens of other junks in the same bay, all full of kararoke-singing tourists and way too much alcohol. Ah, welcome to Halong Bay.

It's a three-hour bus ride east of Hanoi to the coast and Halong City, the gateway to the bay. "Halong" in Vietnamese means "Descending Dragon," as they believe that millennia ago, dragons descended from heaven and created the eerie rocks formations as they connected with our world. Romantic idea, anyway.

And it would be quite the romantic spot, if not for our loveable European friends bringing back distant memories from our childhood and adolescent years with such songs as "Ice Ice Baby," "Wonderwall," and "Can't Touch This." We are, as usual, the lone Americans on-board, surrounded by Brits, Scots, Irish, Germans, Swedes, and even two Hungarians.

Almost as funny as our Vietnamese guide "Lucky" and the crew watching cheesy music videos from the 80's for hours and hours before and after dinner.

The day was truly spectacular. We cruised the bay for several hours under a perfectly sunny sky - couldn't have asked for better weather! Lunch consisted of fresh boiled prawns, seafood spring rolls, squid salad, sesame pork, and plenty of rice.

Our first stop was "Surprise Cave," pretty to walk through. After that we stopped at a floating village and proceeded to try our hand at sea kayaking - a great workout and much tougher than it looks! We kayaked through a "cave," really just an opening in one of the rocks about ten feet above the water, but you sail right through into this gorgeous cove surrounded on all sides by narrow soaring peaks. Awesome.

After kayaking we headed for a narrow beach - the crazy Europeans plunged right in, but the water was a little chilly for us pathetic Floridians. However, back on board before sunset, a few of the guys decided they wanted to jump off the top deck of the boat (about 30-35 feet down!).

Not wanting to be shown up, I did my Florida-redneck roots proud and was the only girl to take the plunge (even Jeremy didn't do it!). I was so proud of myself, though I admit it was absolutely terrifying.

Definitely the biggest leap off a boat I've EVER taken - you get probably five seconds of air time before you connect, so you have plenty of time to think on the way down ("I'm falling...I'm still falling...Wow, I'm still falling..." Splash!)

Dinner last night was more seafood. We've been getting a kick out of educating the Europeans on how to properly peel shrimp (as the prawns here are served whole, heads and all, and you must clean them yourselves). I guess peel-and-eat shrimp never caught on in northern Europe, because they all fumble in the most endearing way and end up ripping the things to shreds.

This morning we awoke to a breakfast of eggs and toast (their bread in northern Vietnam, like much of their food, is LOADED with sugar. Our guide was explaining that they love sweet flavors in the north, while in the south it's all spice). Around 9am we docked on the largest island in the bay, Cat Ba Island, where we'll be spending the night before returning to Hanoi tomorrow.

Source: travelblog

Recommendation in Halong bay:
Ha Long Bay Cruise: http://www.indochinasails.com/
Ha Long Bay Kayaking: http://www.kayakhalongbay.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

"Once we left the Ha Noi city to Ha Long Bay, we passed big wide fields where rice was grown". Here are some of excited things which the author and her travelling companion saw.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/19/2010 -- We were collected early from our hotel in Hanoi for the three hour drive north to Halong Bay. Once we left the city, we passed big wide fields where rice was grown - all empty now as they only have one rice season a year in this area.

After a stop at the inevitable souvenir shop we arrived at the port area for Halong Bay. We were shocked to discover that 300 tourist boats now ply the waters of the bay - and most were offloading guests when we arrived. Eight years ago only 30 boats were sailing in the area. Thankfully the government is not granting permission for any new operators here now.

We were ushered after about an hours wait on the jetty via a small. We were a small group - 4 couples and three girls - as the junk only carries 12 guests. It was very comfortable - small but clean cabin with ensuite.

We were greeted with drinks and cool cloths before the ship motored away from the main group. Lunch soon followed and was of a high standard - eight small courses mainly comprising of seafood. Over the 3 days all the food offered was prepared differently, served with crisp linen and beautifully decorated. And it all tasted fabulous.

After lunch we visited a big cave complex which was interesting - full of stalactites etc... all colourfuly lit up with lights. There were of course many other people viewing the caves with us.

Next they took us to a small island beach with a look out above it. I decided to stay on board and read in the shade on deck - they had comfy wicker lounges - but everybody else went ashore. Jerry climbed to the lookout - much opnce there we realised that many of the junks we saw previously at the dock were for day trippers only as the bay we spent the night in wasn't over crowed.

In fact it was very pretty after dark with all the lights sparking in the water. We sat on the rooftop with a glass of wine and watched the sun set behind the peaks. It was very beautiful - the area was very similar to the glorious scenery around the Li River in China - with water instead of rice paddies. A lovely dinner followed and then an early night.

The next day was fabulous from start to finish. After breakfast we were all put into small 2 person kayaks (I definately had reservations) but thoroughly enjoyed it.

We spent the morning rowing around the bay and visiting some of the grottos which were within some of the peaks. It was really peaceful and beautiful. There were no other boats around as we had motored away from everybody else.

We only spotted a few other boats in the distance for the remainder of the day. There were many tiny little wooden boats with local fishermen bobbing around us. Later most people onboard spent an hour jumping into the water from the decks of the boat - again I read. I'm not totally comfortable in the water at the best of time.

Late afternoon we were back in the kayaks for a long paddle to and around the fishing village which floats on the waters of the bay. The houses were very simple, made of wooden planks, with electricity but all fresh water had to fetched from on shore each day.

The guide on our boat said that the people were very poor and had a very difficult life. This I can definately believe. One wonders how they still manage to find fish in the water - you would think that the supplies would be depleted. The locals all seemed happy to see us - we got plenty of waves anyway! Another sunset, the rest of the bottle of wine drunk whilst watching the stars and another happy day finished.

Next day, after breakfast it was back in the kayaks for another paddle before heading back to the harbour. A brunch was served on the way back - we all ate it of course but it really hadn't been long since breakfast. The tip envelope was presented to us before the bar bills.

We loved the trip - the scenery was spectacular, especially on the middle day, but we were very pleased that we did two night trip and not just the one night. You would not have got much time kayaking on the shorter trip - we spent at least 4 hours on the water.

The ladies from the fishing village who rowed up to the sides of the junks with their boats loaded with everything you would want. They even had the beers on ice!

Returning to the dock we pushed our way through the crowds, stood waiting for our bus from Hanoi to bring the new guests before it took us back the 3 hours to the city. That evening we had tickets booked on the overnight train to Sapa in North West Vietnam.

We had visited the area on a previous trip but were expecting to see major changes there. Eight years previously they were still buiding roads around Sapa. A few hours spent in a cafe, then off to catch the night train.

Source: travelblog

Recommendation in Ha Long Bay:
Ha Long Bay Cruise: http://www.indochinasails.com
Ha Long Bay Kayaking: http://www.kayakhalongbay.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Leaving Hanoi, the author and her friends traveled to Ha Long Bay. They had interesting experiences there.

Hanoi, Veitnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/13/2010 -- Our last morning in Hanoi I got up at 5am - Wayne and Kev decided to stay in bed - and walked down to Hoan Kiem Lake where, at 6am each morning, many people congregate to practise Tai Chi all around the shores of the lake which has the Ngoc Son Temple on a little island in the middle. (Thanks Julie for the suggestion - I wouldn't have thought to do it otherwise!)

Music was playing from PA systems - groups of 6-10 people (it seemed to be mostly older men) were standing in line slightly bent forward. Each person was massaging the back of the person in front of them; every now and then the person at the front moved to the back so everyone got their turn. Having never done Tai Chi in my life before I joined one of the groups and copied, as best I could, what everyone else was doing. It wasn't easy.

After it was all over the lady next to me told me that Tai Chi takes years to perfect. Afterwards some people began playing Shuttlecock and Battledore by which time I had to make my way back. Initially getting a little lost I was saved by the hotel card which had a map on the back!!

Leaving Hanoi we embarked on a tour bus which took us to Halong Bay, a journey of about 3 ½ hours.

Our companions on the bus came from Belgium, France, Corsica, Bali, Hong Kong, Adelaide and Christchurch - all of whom we got to know during the next day and a half. Halong Bay - a UNESCO world heritage site - consists of a dense cluster of 1,969 limestone monolithic islands, each topped with thick jungle vegetation, which rise spectacularly from the ocean.

Several of the islands are hollow, with enormous caves. We spent a night aboard a junk - we had an ensuite room with a double bed - docking twice, first to visit Hang Sung Sot cave then to board kayaks in which we did our own bit of exploration. (Thanks James for the lesson in kayaking!!)

The next night was spent at Tua Than Island which overlooked some of the bay. In the afternoon, when Kev decided it was too hot to leave an air-conditioned room I ventured out for a walk and ended up going into a Beauty Parlour/Spa where I had a pedicure, manicure (both complete with nailpolish), a haircut, shampoo and blow dry.

Vietnam is a land of contrasts, natural beauty and innovative people - it's also noisy and it always seems to be busy, busy, busy! While the great majority of people ride motorbikes which cost approx $US7,000, in Hanoi we saw two Bentleys being driven and they cost approx $US1 million each. At the bottom end of the scale are those who ride bicycles.

But despite the lack of material goods so cherished by most Australians the Vietnamese people appear happy and they couldn't be friendlier.

Today we said goodbye to Wayne who flies back to Australia to start work on Monday! Tomorrow Kev and I are off to Siem Reap, Cambodia - looking forward to some new experiences there.

Source: travelblog

Recommendation for trip in Ha long bay:

Ha Long bay cruise: http://www.indochinasails.com/

Ha Long bay kayaking: http://www.kayakhalongbay.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Halong Bay is one of the most spectacular, and therefore heavily 'touristed' attractions in Vietnam.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/31/2009 -- Stretching along the Northeast Vietnamese border with China it comprises thousands of limestone karst outcroppings and more than 750 islands of all sizes that dot the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

Legend has it that the bay, 'Descending Dragon' in Vietnamese, was named after a family of dragons sent by the gods to help the Viet people repel Chinese invaders. Spitting emeralds and jade (the islands) into the waters of the bay they created a natural defensive area that helped protect what became Vietnam. After their success the dragons liked the area so much that they decided to stay. They weren't alone in their high opinions of the landscape - the area was formally inscribed as an UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999, which of course led to an even greater influx of local and foreign visitors.

Getting to Halong Bay from Hanoi couldn't be simpler. We were very happy with the tour we arranged through our hotel, and after chatting to other travellers who had been to Halong it seems that we had one of the better trips. The vast majority of options center around either two days and one night or three days and two nights in Halong. We chose the longer option and were glad we did.

Our trip began with a mini-bus ride (of about 3 hours) from our Hanoi hotel to Halong Bay town.

Our first day,was spent exploring "The Amazing Cave", we captured some of our best photos in Vietnam so far. Aboard the junk again we headed for a local swimming beach (on yet another island). After the swim, the junk sailed to another picturesque spot and dropped anchor for the night (surrounded by about 7 other similar junks - we suspect that they are required to overnight in set spots). Dinner was very nice (mainly seafood) and it was super getting to know all our fellow travellers. We spent the rest of the evening playing cards with Phil and Kirsty (an Aussie couple from Cairns) and their brother Andy - welcome to the Blog guys!.

The second day, the hazy weather had cleared into bright sunshine. After packing and a quick breakfast we all transferred from the junk to a smaller taxi boat (picking up some new travellers along the way - notably Lachy and Lisa, also from Aussie - welcome to the Blog guys!).

Our next stop was the far side of Cat Ba island (the largest in the bay) where we each chose a bike and cycled about 7km inland passing some amazing scenery of local villages, rice paddies,mountains and forests. A short 3km walk into the jungle brought us to an abandoned 'ancient village' - which we had a few minutes to explore, before trekking back and riding back to the boat.

We then took a short ride to the best beach we had seen in Halong - pristine white powdery sand, clean water, and sheer mountain cliffs rising out of the bay. It was here that we had some swimming/sunbathing time and that our guides set up our beach BBQ lunch! Great prawns, squid, fish, rice, veggies...ahh what a rough life!

After lunch we headed to yet another spot where we moored alongside some floating huts to pick up our sea kayaks. Denise and I discovered that despite our pretty much perfect match in almost everything we are not good paddling partners! Still it was great fun to explore the bay and the myriad islands by kayak - and we all ended up in a truly magical place - where a ring of islands form a solid circle with only one opening (a low cave) that leads into a totally enclosed body of water - something right out of a movie.

Throwing caution to the winds we jumped out of the kayak and swam for a while - it was perfect. Our final port of call for the day was Cat Ba ('Women Island') town where we caught a short bus ride to our hotel for the night - the Holiday View hotel.

The hotel was quite upmarket by Halong Bay standards - very modern if lacking some warmth - and it was comfortable. We spent the night at a local pool bar with the others from our group and had a fun evening - made even more so by the fact that the Springboks won the World Cup!! Yay South Africa!!

The next day was a travelling one - bus to the boat, slow boat ride back to Halong Bay town, bus over land-bridge to the nearest island for a final lunch and then a 3 hour bus ride back to Hanoi.

Halong Bay definitely has its plus points and is definitely worth the visit and remember that you are one of several million visitors every year.

Source: realtravel

Recommendation for trip in Ha Long Bay:

Ha Long Bay Cruise: http://www.indochinasails.com/

Ha Long bay Kayaking: http://www.kayakhalongbay.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Ha Long Bay was officially placed on the list of the World Natural Heritage twice, attracts visitors more and more.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/23/2009 -- Ah.......almost a week in Vietnam and we have so far managed to avoid eating dog! That is some feat over here because dog is very popular on the menu in cafes.

We have just got back from three days in beautiful Halong Bay where we lived on a big wooden boat with our own room and bathing facilities. The rooms on board the boat were amazingly even better than many of those in Hanoi city.

The trip included kayaking through caves and untouched lagoons. We also visited floating fishing villages where many Vietnamese people live. The villages even had little floating schools for the local children to attend.

The food on the boat was fantastic, especially considering the basic kitchen facilities the staff on board had to work with.

We travelled with a number of awesome Australian families on the boat who had great children of all ages. The kids all loved Nikki and I as we made the trip fun for them by getting involved in karaoke in the evenings.

One of the funniest things out in the bay was the local women in little wooden rowing boats who sold chocolate, crackers, cigarettes and alcohol. They somehow happened to be there, in the middle of bloody nowhere, when our boat stopped for a break. The women could be heard yelling out "buy Somsing (something)" whenever we stopped. Clearly they are aware of our consumer driven nature.

Source: mytripjournal

Recommendation for Ha Long Bay Junk:

http://www.indochinasails.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/16/2009 -- Active Travel Asia (ATA) asked the travel experts to reveal the trips which are most excited from Vietnam's Fansipan Mountain to Cambodia's Tonle Sap Lake in 2010 and featured some destinations.

Mountain trekking, Sapa, Vietnam
Mount Fansipan is Vietnam's highest peak located in the far north just outside of Sapa. Mt. Fansipan is a very steep mountain that gets a lot of moisture. Those looking to climb it should be in good shape and prepared to to have muddy wet feet. The scenery is incredible so travelers should remember to bring a camera. For most of Vietnam having a rain coat is a little excessive because it is so warm. On the mountain having a rain coat is not a bad idea especially at night. The trails around Sapa are a lot of fun. Travelers will get the chance to go through some minority villages if travelers have the time to explore. There are well-marked trails, both long and short, for all skill levels.

When it is the best time?
October to May are the best months

Book it:
Active Travel Vietnam (00 84 4 3573 8569; http://www.trekfansipan.com) offers a year-round, four-day guided mountain-trekking tour of Vietnam from $ 219 including hotel accommodation, some meals and travel gear rent. Flights are extra

Motorcycling Ho Chi Minh Trail, Vietnam
The legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail was the supply line where it is used by North Vietnam to link North and South Vietnam during the American War. Soldiers, ammunition, weapons and supplies were carried by hand, bicycle and truck for hundreds of kilometers through the otherwise impenetrable jungle that it is covered Vietnam's mountainous border with Laos.

When it is the best time?
October to April

Book it:
Active Travel Vietnam (00 84 4 3573 856; http://www.activetravelvietnam.com) offers a 18-days with 11-days motorcycling guided trip from $1,951, including accommodation, all meals and transfers. Flights are extra.

Kayaking Halong Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay (also "Halong Bay") is in northern Vietnam, 170 km east of Hanoi. The bay is famous for its scenic rock formations

If travelers thought the hideout in the James Bond film "The Man with the Golden Gun" was spectacular, travelers can imagine a place where there are 3,000 such limestone islands clustered together in the East Sea of Halong Bay. Paddle through caves into secret lagoons, drift down channels are surrounded by cliffs and forest and sail out into the open sea.

When it is the best time?
October and early January

Book it:
Kayak Halong Bay (info@activetravel.asia; htp://www.kayakhalongbay.com) offers a 3-day trip from $ 299 including meals, accommodation and transfers

Explore Mekong Delta, Vietnam
A holiday in Vietnam would be incomplete without a trip to the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Popularly known as one of the 'Rice Baskets' of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is located in the South Eastern region of Vietnam, where the Mekong River meets the sea. A pride of the Vietnamese and the one of the most popular of the Vietnam tourist attractions, the Mekong Delta is exceptionally rich in scenic beauty. It is a place unique in itself.

When it is the best time?
October to June

Book it:
Active Travel Asia (0084-4-3573-8569; http://www.activetravel.asia) has a 4-day tour with over 3-day biking from $ 312 including full-board accommodation and transfers. Flights extra

Cycling Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Travelers will discover the world's remarkable awesome historical site through this adventure trip and grasp the reasons why the Tomb Raider's film maker team chose the Angkor Complex in Siem Reap for its screen backdrops. Also experience the biodiversity of Tonle Sap listed as the World Ecological Wonder.

When it is the best time?
October to June

Book it:
Active Travel Cambodia (info@activetravelcambodia.com; http://www.activetravelcambodia.com) has a 7-day tour with 5-day cycling from $ 685 including full-board accommodation and transfers. Flights extra

Cycling Laos
Cycling is a great way to get off the beaten track in this increasingly popular country. Start in Luang Prabang, in north central Laos, and head to Hanoi, in North Vietnam, travelers are going to travel along the banks of the Mekong River and past the intriguing Viengxay caves.

When it is the best time?
October to March

Book it:
Active Travel Laos (info@activetravellaos.com; http://www.activetravellaos.com) has a 17-day tour with kayaking, trekking, biking and elephant riding Luang Prabang to Hanoi cycling trip from $ 1,553 including most meals, bike hire and sightseeing. Flights extra.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

For the Vietnamese people, Tet is the most sacred time of the year.

Hanoi, Hanoi -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/15/2009 -- On lunar New Year's Eve, each member of a family and of society exchange sincere good wishes, strengthening common cultural ties. Tet is also time to reflect on the spiritual life.

In Hanoi, on the stroke of midnight, the whole family sits down to eat together. The house has been cleaned well in advance. The family altar is decorated with fresh flowers, fruits (5 kinds of fruits with 5 different colors) and red candles. During Tet, angry words are forbidden. Most Hanoians visit pagodas, and make sure to bring home a leafy branch, an ancient symbol of prosperity.

During the next few days, it is crucial for people to visit as many of their relatives, friends and former teachers as they can manage. As an old proverb says:" the first day of Tet is for parents, the second for friends, and third for teachers".

When visiting families, it is customary to offer children and old people money in a lucky red envelope, to wish the elderly a long life and the children a year of fast growth. Visitors wish their hosts happiness, wealth and success as soon as they arrive.

In the Centre of the country, people put a lot of energy into Tet's preparations - they are busy baking biscuits and sweets months beforehand. The people of Hue in particular are famous for their delicious food, cakes and jam.

During Tet, old people sit down together to share a bottle of wine. In Hue, people who have mastered Chinese calligraphy to give as seasonal presents are greatly respected. Some hire boats and drift down the Perfume River reciting poetry recalling old times and floating candles on the water.

Tropical HCM City is more vibrant, with friends getting together to have fun. Here as well, people visit pagoda, often next carrying huge sticks of incense or giant candles.

The free and easy Saigonese are not as bound by tradition as their northern cousins. Many take their families to beaches, pagoda and amusements centres. Most shops stay open, and shopping is a popular pastime. Just like in the rest of the county, though, the Saigonese never forget to wish one another all the best for New Year.

Source: thingsasian

Recommendation in vietnam:
Ha Long Bay: http://www.indochinasails.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Ha Long Bay always has many exciting things make author amazing.

Hanoi, Viet Nam -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/11/2009 -- We took an amazing 2 day trip east to Ha Long Bay, just near Haiphong - this is a wonderful archipelligo in the South China Sea and consists of literally thousands of small islands, all very tall and rocky, mostly well covered in vegetation. Unfortunately, at this time of the year it is quite misty but was still stunning - it is where they filmed Scaramanger's island in James Bond (and probably no end of other famous scenes too).

The Bay is a three hour mini bus trip, so we saw a number of new contenders for the "strangest moped cargo award". Runner up in the livestock category, to date, is massive basket full of live chickens, but the first prize must go to two huge fully grown, live pigs, strapped on their backs onto the pillion seat.

We toured the bay and slept one night on a "luxury" (note: all terms have become relative)junk. The food was amazing, especially considering the circumstances under which they had to prepare it (I try to avoid thinking about this in too much detail).

However, the crew were amazing, we chatted to one lad and heard that the crew work from 0530 through to midnight, 26 days a month, covering every job - barman/cabin boy/cook and have to sleep on the deck! He was 22 and a great guy to chat to so gave him a tip of 100,000 Dong = day and half wages for him (sounds huge but equates to 4 pounds) - very strange to get our heads round.

At one point we kayaked to a nearby beach but that turned out to harder work than I expected so we headed back to the junk for a beer (yes I have had to convert to beer because they don't have local wine and the imported stuff is a horrendous price).

Source: http://mytripjournal.com

Recommendation:

Kayaking Ha Long Bay: http://www.kayakhalongbay.com/
Indochinasails: http://www.indochinasails.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm