The article is particularly impressed by the Vietnamese natural heritage site's limestone mountains, emerald-green waters and unique cave system.

Titled “Le Vietnam abrite l'une des plus belles merveilles du monde à admirer une fois dans sa vie” (Viet Nam is home to one of the most beautiful wonders in the world to admire once in a lifetime), the article was written by Aurélie Michel and published on Routard.com on October 5.

Ha Long Bay (Illustrative photo).

At the very beginning, Routard portrays Ha Long Bay through evocative images of vegetation-covered limestone mountains, emerald-green waters, caves and floating villages.

According to the article, located in northeastern Viet Nam, about 165km from Hanoi, Ha Long Bay boasts “one of the most spectacular landscapes in Asia,” and “if not the world.”

Routard recalls Ha Long Bay's special status on the international tourism map, noting that the site was recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site in 1994.

According to the article, more than 2,000 limestone islands and islets covered with vegetation are scattered across the emerald-green waters, creating the bay's distinctive landscape and making Ha Long Bay one of Viet Nam's prominent destinations.

Beyond sightseeing, Routard says travelers should set aside enough time to fully appreciate the beauty of the bay. One of the suggested experiences is spending a night aboard a cruise ship, allowing visitors to leisurely observe the limestone formations rising from the water.

According to Routard, Ha Long Bay can also be explored in a variety of ways. Kayaking allows visitors to get close to the cliffs, pass through natural tunnels and reach small beaches. Meanwhile, the cave system is another highlight not to be missed, with sites including Dau Go Cave, Thien Cung Cave and Sung Sot Cave.

From above, Titop Island offers a different perspective of Ha Long Bay. Routard says that after climbing about 400 steps over a 15-minute walk, visitors can take in a panoramic view of the bay, with thousands of limestone islands stretching across the water.

Alongside Ha Long Bay, the article also highlights Bai Tu Long Bay as an option for travelers seeking a more peaceful setting. According to Routard, the landscape here is similar to that of Ha Long Bay, but there are significantly fewer boats.

Vung Vieng Fishing Village on Ha Long Bay (Illustrative Photo)

At Vung Vieng Fishing Village, visitors can experience traditional boats as they weave between floating houses and natural tunnels. Routard also recommends visiting pearl farming facilities as a way to learn more about the daily lives and livelihoods of local communities.

Canadian newspaper praised Ha Long Bay one of a must- visit destination

A miniature Halong Bay in mountainous province in Vietnam's Northeast