Introduction
One of the most famous tourist destinations in Vietnam is Ha Long Bay. This bay features a stunning natural landscape, with thousands of limestone islands rising majestically from the clear blue sea. In addition to its breathtaking scenery, Halong Bay is home to a diverse local culture, including many fishing villages that have existed for centuries. Tourists can also enjoy a variety of recreational activities and sample unique local cuisine.
In today’s article, Halong Private Car will provide a wealth of useful and interesting information about Halong Bay Floating Village. Through this article, visitors can explore the serene and picturesque beauty of the historic fishing villages in Halong Bay. Additionally, readers can rely on the information provided to plan an engaging and enjoyable trip before arriving in Ha Long.
Where Is Halong Bay In Vietnam?
Halong Bay is a stunning bay located in Quang Ninh province, just about 180 km northeast of Hanoi, covering an area of 1,553 km². Its strategic location, along with significant investments in infrastructure and transportation, has made travel to Halong Bay easier and more convenient. Every year, the bay attracts millions of domestic and international tourists.
In addition, Halong’s tourism offers visitors a chance to explore its unique karst terrain, which features more than 1,900 islands of various fascinating shapes. Furthermore, tourists can enjoy a variety of exciting sea activities such as kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and taking boat tours.
How To Get From Hanoi To Halong Bay?
As mentioned, the distance from Hanoi to Halong Bay is approximately 180 km (~112 miles). The drive typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes via the Hanoi – Ninh Binh Expressway. However, travel time may vary due to factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and the type of transportation you choose on the day of your trip.
When traveling from Hanoi to Ha Long, there are several transportation options available, including trains, passenger vans, tourist buses, and private cars. Each type of vehicle has its own advantages and disadvantages. Below, we provide a detailed analysis to help visitors select the most suitable mode of transportation for their journey.
By Train
Trains are a popular means of public transport between Hanoi and Halong for travelers who want to explore the natural beauty along the way from a different perspective. Additionally, travelers can book tickets in groups at reasonable prices, making it a comfortable journey together.
However, traveling by train can take a long time, up to 7 hours, which may affect your travel plans. Moreover, passengers will need to spend extra time and money to travel from the station to the pier or hotel. This option also does not allow for stops along the way, unlike traveling by road.
By Motorbike
Motorbikes are another transportation option from Hanoi City. The main advantage of using a motorbike is the flexibility to stop whenever you want and enjoy the scenery along the route. Additionally, the cost of renting a motorbike is lower than that of other options, making it suitable for many backpackers.
On the downside, the travel time by motorbike is quite long, ranging from 4 to 5 hours. For tourists who are not familiar with riding motorbikes or the traffic conditions in Vietnam, this can be tiring and potentially dangerous. Therefore, we do not strongly recommend using motorbikes for the journey from Hanoi to Halong.
By Bus/Coach
Traveling by coach or bus from Hanoi to Halong is typically the most affordable option. With a high frequency of trips available, visitors can choose travel times that best fit their schedules. Additionally, this mode of transport allows you to experience local culture along the way.
However, buses are public transportation, meaning you’ll share space with other passengers. The journey may not be seamless, as buses often stop to pick up or drop off passengers, which can extend travel time. Furthermore, buses do not guarantee privacy and can be susceptible to theft due to security concerns.
By Private Car
Renting a private car for the journey from Hanoi to Halong has many distinct advantages. Tourists will be picked up door-to-door by an experienced and friendly local driver, ensuring a faster travel time. Also, the schedule is flexible, allowing for stops along the way based on the preferences of your group. Plus, since each trip serves only one group of customers, you can enjoy privacy, security, and a higher level of safety.
The main drawback of this option is the higher cost. However, the benefits often outweigh the price you pay. If your group is large, the overall cost can be divided among passengers, making it more affordable.
Through these specific analyses, it is evident that renting a private car is the best choice for the journey from Hanoi to Halong. Visitors are encouraged to consider our Hanoi to Halong Bay Private Car transportation service for the most enjoyable travel experience.
Best Time To Visit Halong Bay
The dry season is the best time to explore the beauty of Halong Bay, with two prime periods: from April to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is cool and sunny, with clear blue skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming and kayaking. In the later period (September to November), tourism is less bustling, allowing visitors to enjoy a more relaxed and complete entertainment experience.
Additionally, winter in Halong Bay lasts from November to March of the following year, offering its own unique charm. The scenery during these months is magical and mysterious, often enhanced by misty fog, creating a romantic atmosphere. However, the weather is cold and can be rainy, which makes outdoor activities less convenient. In particular, it is advisable for visitors to avoid traveling in July and August, as storms during this time can affect safety.
History Of Floating Village Halong Bay
Halong Bay is renowned for its natural beauty, but it also preserves unique local cultural values. Since the 19th century, the fishing communities of Giang Vong and Truc Vong have thrived here, passing down invaluable traditional knowledge to adapt to their environment.
Today, while traditional fishing villages have diminished, the government actively supports fishermen transitioning to shore-based living. Authorities focus on restoring key structures like floating houses and schools for tourism, showcasing the coastal culture. Traditional occupations such as weaving and fishing gear creation are integrated into tourism activities.
Come to the fishing village on Halong Bay, and visitors can explore the lifestyles and customs of the fishing community. In addition, you can participate in handicrafts like net weaving and experience daily life at sea with fishermen. Through this tour, visitors will have a deeper insight into the area’s rich history and culture.
Halong Bay Floating Village Architecture
Floating fishing villages in the Halong Bay region share several common characteristics, featuring colorful small houses built on the water. Each house has an area of approximately 30m2 and is connected to others, creating distinct fishing communities with unique names.
General Architectural Features
- Floating Foundations: All floating fishing villages are constructed on floating platforms or boat hulls, allowing fishermen to live and work flexibly according to the water flow.
- Interlocking Structure: The independent floating houses are tightly connected, forming a unified complex that can withstand storms and strong winds.
- Bright and Distinct Colors: The vibrant colors of the houses serve not only as decoration but also help fishermen identify their areas after fishing far from shore. Additionally, the bright paints block sunlight and reduce heat, while also protecting the house frames from seawater corrosion.
- Compact and Convenient Design: The small size of the houses enables them to fit into the narrow spaces of bays and straits. This compactness also limits weight, allowing the houses to float safely on the water.
Other Factors Supporting Daily Life
- Anchoring System: A robust anchoring system is secured deep under the seabed, stabilizing the entire village against the impact of water currents and ensuring it remains fixed in a specific location.
- Aquaculture: Some villages install fish cages beneath their houses for easier care and protection. This installation not only saves time and effort for fishermen but also enhances their work efficiency.
- Combined Living and Working Space: Although compact, the houses are fully equipped to meet basic living needs and are often connected to aquaculture cages. This integration reflects a lifestyle that merges work and life on the sea.
Cultural Significance
- Preserving Traditional Values: Floating villages serve as residences for fishermen and embody the maritime culture of the Vietnamese people, reflecting practices that have been sustained through generations. Preserving these villages in Halong helps maintain long-standing fishing traditions.
- Living in Harmony with Nature: The unique structure of floating houses allows fishermen to adapt to and coexist with the marine environment, enabling them to rely on the sea for their livelihoods.
- Building a Sustainable Community: The collective construction of houses enhances safety for households within fishing villages. This interconnectedness fosters community spirit, creating a resilient society in an unstable water environment.
Unique Floating Fishing Villages In Halong Bay
Halong Bay was recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World in 2011. This breathtaking destination not only features stunning landscapes but also boasts fishing villages that have existed for hundreds of years. Visitors to Ha Long should take the opportunity to explore one of the renowned fishing villages mentioned below. This journey is sure to be a rewarding experience.
Vung Vieng Floating Village
Location: Situated in the heart of Bai Tu Long Bay, approximately 40km from Ha Long City.
This charming fishing village is nestled in the tranquil and picturesque surroundings of the bay. Vung Vieng is home to hundreds of fishermen who live at sea year-round. The families here have been engaged in fishing and pearl farming for generations. Despite facing hardships, they maintain a joyful outlook on life and are filled with optimism.
When visiting Vung Vieng, guests have the opportunity to experience the peaceful and simple lives of local fishermen, as well as admire the vibrant floating houses. Visitors can fully immerse themselves in the fresh ocean air and the lush green landscape of the rocky mountains.
Moreover, guests can observe the daily routines of fishermen residing in the village and learn about their unique culture. There’s also the chance to spend a day as a real fisherman, engaging in interesting activities like rowing bamboo boats, casting nets, and pulling them in, all with guidance from experienced locals.
Today, Vung Vieng Fishing Village has evolved into a popular experiential tourism destination, helping fishermen earn additional income alongside their traditional livelihoods. Also, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood while exploring the local culture. Several luxury cruises offer tours to Vung Vieng Floating Village, including:
- Dragon Legend Cruise
- Dragon Pearl Cruise
- Emperor Cruises
- Garden Bay Luxury & Garden Bay Premium
- Huong Hai Sealife Cruise
- Signature & Signature Royal Cruises
Cua Van Floating Village
Location: Located in Hung Thang commune, only 20km from Ha Long City Tourist Wharf.
Cua Van Floating Fishing Village is considered one of the most beautiful ancient villages in the world, nestled among the majestic limestone mountains of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. This fishing village has its roots in two historic communities, Truc Vong and Giang Vong, reflecting a rich cultural heritage. Currently, Cua Van is home to more than 176 households, whose primary livelihood revolves around fishing.
Visitors to Cua Van Floating Village will be captivated by the sight of floating houses, predominantly painted in blue, alongside bamboo boats and traditional fish baskets used by the fishermen. Moreover, guests can gain insight into the daily lives of those living in the village and observe their fishing practices.
In addition to sightseeing, visitors can engage in authentic tourism activities such as rowing, netting, and fishing, with assistance from the local fishermen. Plus, access to this unique fishing village is available via various luxury yachts, including:
- Aclass Stellar Cruise
- Azalea Cruise
- Carina Cruise
- Phoenix Cruise
- Paradise Elegance Cruise
- Paradise Luxury Cruise
- Paradise Peak Cruise
Ba Hang Floating Village
Location: Situated on Halong Bay, near Dau Go Island, approximately 3 km south of Tuan Chau International Port.
Ba Hang Floating Village is situated among the limestone mountains of Halong Bay and houses 50 fishing families. Despite daily challenges, the fishermen maintain a resilient spirit, working hard at sea with optimism. Their simple yet charming lives attract tourists from all over.
In recent years, the fishing village has gradually embraced tourism, offering a variety of attractive services, including fresh seafood sales, local cuisine, boating, and accommodations in fishermen’s houses. The floating houses here are approximately 10 m² and come equipped with basic furniture, providing comfort while allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the sea.
The Ba Hang Floating Fishing Village tour offers visitors a vibrant experience of life as a fisherman. Activities include kayaking, net fishing, and squid fishing. After a day of work, visitors can enjoy the fresh seafood they’ve caught themselves. Some cruises that pass through Ba Hang Fishing Village include:
- Bhaya Legend Cruise
- Bhaya Classic Cruise
- Bhaya Soul Cruise
Cong Dam Floating Village
Location: Bai Tu Long Bay, far from the mainland.
Cong Dam Floating Village is situated deep within Bai Tu Long Bay, away from the crowded tourist routes. This fishing village is home to 120 residents who primarily make their living through traditional coastal fishing. Thanks to its unique location, the village retains a pristine landscape and fresh air.
Additionally, Cong Dam boasts a rich marine ecosystem, which includes coral reefs, underwater caves, and underground lakes within the mountains. Coming here, you can engage in various enjoyable activities that showcase the local culture, such as fishing, squid fishing, kayaking, and mangrove planting.
Plus, travelers can reach this fishing village by luxury yachts, including:
- Dragon Legend Cruise
- Huong Hai Sealife Cruise
- Signature Cruise
- Signature Royal Cruise
Viet Hai Floating Village
Location: Cat Hai Island District, Hai Phong City.
Viet Hai Floating Village is located in the contiguous area of Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. It is a small fishing village that consists of 70 households living at sea year-round. Known as an “island within an island”, this village is surrounded by mountains and the sea. Although it faces economic challenges, the community remains happy and hospitable.
Unlike bustling fishing villages that cater to tourists, Viet Hai offers a peaceful, rustic, and intimate atmosphere. Visitors can participate in enjoyable recreational activities such as rowing on Lan Ha Bay, cycling through the village, and admiring the serene countryside scenery. Additionally, local residents share historical stories about the country’s two resistance wars.
Luxury cruises that can take you to visit Viet Hai Floating Fishing Village include:
- Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan
- Orchid Premium Cruise
- Indochina Cruise
- Ambassador Signature Cruise
- Paradise Grand Cruise
Top Activities To Enjoy In Halong Bay Floating Village
In addition to visiting and learning about the floating fishing villages in Halong Bay, visitors can participate in various interesting recreational activities to enhance their travel experience. Here are some experiential tourism activities that should not be missed:
Discover The Floating Village By Boat
Exploring the fishing villages by boat offers a unique tourist experience that provides insight into the lives and farming practices of local fishermen. This journey allows visitors to admire the colorful floating houses and observe the daily activities of the fishing village residents up close.
Moreover, guests can immerse themselves in the slow pace of life and enjoy the simple tranquility, which is a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This experience is a beautiful blend of tourism and cultural exploration, leaving an unforgettable mark on your journey through Halong Bay.
Experience Kayaking
One of the most engaging activities when visiting fishing villages is kayaking. Visitors can row their boats through narrow straits to reach the fishing village area and explore hidden corners inaccessible by larger boats. While paddling, you can admire the towering limestone mountains and enjoy the cool, clear blue sea.
Further, the kayaking experience offers a unique adventure tailored to individual exploration interests. Additionally, it provides a chance to observe the daily work of households in the fishing village and gain insight into their living habits.
Go Squid Fishing At Night
An exciting adventure that many tourists look forward to when visiting floating fishing villages in Halong is night squid fishing. Participating in this activity allows visitors to immerse themselves in the life of local fishermen in the most authentic way. Visitors use traditional fishing tools to catch squid under the soft glow of lanterns.
In addition, this experience offers the opportunity to interact with and learn from local people. Through this interaction, you will gain a different perspective on the lifestyle, culture, and daily challenges faced by hardworking fishermen. Catching squid not only brings joy but also provides the satisfaction of having fresh ingredients for a delightful dinner.
Explore A Traditional Craft: Weaving And Mending Nets
When visiting Halong’s fishing villages, you have the chance to observe and participate in traditional crafts such as weaving and mending nets. These are common tasks in fishing villages, passed down through generations. Also, weaving and mending nets require skill and precision, and those who pursue these crafts often possess a wealth of experience.
By getting involved in this activity, visitors will be guided by artisans to familiarize themselves with the tools and processes involved in creating a complete net. Participating in the steps of weaving and mending nets makes your travel experience more enriching. Moreover, these hands-on activities allow you to appreciate the cultural depth and creative spirit of fishermen who devote their lives to the sea.
Essential Travel Tips For Halong Bay
No matter where you travel, learning about your destination can greatly enhance your experience. Halong Bay is no exception. Visitors should familiarize themselves with essential travel tips to prepare for their trip. Here is some important information to help you enjoy your visit:
- Choose the Ideal Time to Travel: It is recommended to plan your trip to Halong between April and June or September and November. Traveling during these months will allow you to fully appreciate the beauty of the bay.
- Prepare Suitable Luggage: Besides, packing appropriately is vital for your Halong tour. We suggest bringing light and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and visits to fishing villages. Additionally, make sure to include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against sunburn.
- Choose a Reputable Place to Stay: Research and book accommodations in advance to secure a reputable place to stay, especially during peak tourist season when rooms can fill up quickly.
- Be Cautious During Water Activities: In particular, follow the regulations of the tourist destination to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Never swim in prohibited areas or deep waters marked with warning signs. Always wear a life jacket when participating in kayaking in the bay.
- Food Considerations: Traveling is not just about exploring nature; it’s also about enjoying local cuisine. Be sure to try fresh seafood caught in the bay area. However, choose reputable and hygienic restaurants to ensure a delightful dining experience.
- Environmental Protection: Visitors must not litter or cause damage to the beauty of Halong Bay’s environment.
By following these tips, you’ll have a more enjoyable and safe experience while exploring the wonders of Halong Bay.
Delicious Halong Cuisine You Must Taste
Ha Long not only boasts stunning natural scenery but also provides an abundant source of fresh seafood. Local chefs skilfully create delicious dishes with distinctive flavors that visitors should not miss. Here are some must-try dishes when visiting Ha Long:
- Squid Cake: A culinary symbol of Ha Long, fresh squid is pounded by hand and then dropped into boiling oil to create crispy, golden squid cakes.
- Steamed Rolled Rice Pancake with Squid Cake: These delicious squid cakes are rolled in soft rice paper, delivering an attractive and flavorful experience.
- Mantis Shrimp Noodle: Chewy noodles served with a rich broth topped with fresh, firm mantis shrimp.
- Sea Cucumber: A unique seafood species found in Ha Long Bay, it has firm meat and a rich, fatty flavor.
Additionally, Ha Long tourism offers visitors the chance to enjoy special drinks such as Hoanh Bo sticky rice wine, Ha Long yogurt, and fresh fruit juices. If you have the opportunity to visit Ha Long, immerse yourself in the rich culinary landscape of this bay, where delicious and unique flavors will leave a lasting impression on your heart.
Nearby Attractions
During your stay in Halong Bay, visitors can explore floating fishing villages and several renowned tourist attractions, such as Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Luon Cave. A well-planned itinerary can make your vacation even more meaningful. Below is some information about these suggested attractions for your consideration.
Sung Sot Cave
Located on Bo Hon Island, Sung Sot Cave is regarded as one of the most famous and impressive caves in the Bay area. Visitors to this cave will be amazed by the stunning stalactites. The cave has a spacious interior with many chambers waiting to be explored.
Additionally, Sung Sot Cave is associated with the legend of Saint Giong, a national hero in Vietnam’s history. Local people believe that the stalactites in the cave represent swords used in battles against invaders, transformed into stone. They stand as a testament to the glorious feats of the Vietnamese army and people during the feudal era.
Titop Island
Considered one of the most beautiful islands in Halong Bay, Titop Island attracts numerous visitors each year. This island boasts a stunning natural landscape with fine white sand and lush tropical forests, creating a refreshing and cool atmosphere. Here, visitors can also hike to the top of Titop Mountain to enjoy a panoramic view of the bay.
Luon Cave
Luon Cave serves as the gateway to a picturesque section of the bay, surrounded by steep cliffs. The water inside the cave is clear and calm throughout the year, resembling a giant mirror that reflects the mountains and sky. To explore Luon Cave, visitors can choose to travel by bamboo boat, canoe, or kayak. We recommend kayaking through the cave to fully appreciate the beauty of this destination.
Conclusion
Halong Bay is an appealing tourist destination, known not only for its stunning natural landscape but also for its historical significance. When visiting Halong, guests should not miss the famous century-old fishing villages that dot the bay. Here, visitors can learn about the local culture, the lives of the people, and the daily activities of the fishermen.
The information provided about Halong Bay Floating Village has been shared by Halong Private Car to help you better understand the unique characteristics of each fishing village in the area and assist you in planning your trip. Thank you for taking the time to read our article. We hope you have a memorable vacation in Halong, Vietnam.