Halong Bay

[Chuparuedas]

Hi Folks,

I just returned from a vacation in Vietnam. I think it helpful to post this thread about Halong Bay.
My experience: great area. Stunning landscapes.
But it really makes a difference where you book your trip. I was lucky. Later on I heard stories of people with bad experiences. Overcrowded boats, bad food, bad treatment by the crew. There was even one report of lice on board.
I from my side cannot complain. Great boat, clean, 13 passengers max. Great food, more than I could manage. Friendly staff.
I travelled with Vega Travel, 24a Hang Bac, adjoining 106 Ma May Str. Hanoi. Recommendable. Certainly there will be other good and priceworthy companies, but I did not make a survey of them. Vega is only slightly more expensive (not much though; even a budget traveler will have no problems with the difference), but afterwards I'm glad I accepted that because they do deliver. There is a relation between price and quality.
Vega Travel: Tel. (84-4) 39262092. Email: [Dear Guest/Member you can't see link before replyclick here to register]. (Ask Nam for guide. He's good.)

[Alan]

Hi Chuparuedas,
We were at Halong Bay last month and like you had a great time. There are a lot of boats providing tours there as you would have seen and it's a shame that people can sometimes have a less than memorable time with some of them. We now live in Vietnam and I have been "touring" here since 1994, we ALWAYS use Sinh Tourist if we can, as they have always provided what they advertise. You may have noticed many "Sinh Tourist" offices in Ha Noi, there are actually only two, the rest are fake, but very good fakes, they even use copies of Sinh Tourist's advertising. If you return, and for others who may be planning a trip here the website is [Dear Guest/Member you can't see link before replyclick here to register] be careful as there are also copies on the web. Tourists only have a limited time to look around and it's a shame if their trip turns out not very good, I have noticed over the years that many of the small "tourist" companies here have gone from providing a good service to just grabbing money. The more people like yourself that can provide feedback, either good or bad will help future travellers have a pleasant experience.
Alan

[Chuparuedas]

Hi Allan,
Thanks for your constructive reaction. Your (and mine) warning can be taken into account by people wanting to visit this area. I didn't know there were even fake companies, dressing up like another.
What worries me is their environmental care - or the lack of it - in this vulnerable area. The water quality is already rapidly deteriorating i've been told.
Regards, thanks for the info. I put your url in my favourites.
Chuparuedas