Northeast of Halong Bay lies the beguiling Bai Tu Long Bay with its small islands and towering limestone karts forming the national park. The scenery here is just as spectacular as its well-known neighbour, Ha Long Bay, and it is perhaps even more beautiful due to less boat traffic and development.
As it’s quieter and less well known amongst visitors, Bai Tu Long provides a special setting and peaceful alternative to Halong Bay. It is best experienced on a one or two-night junk boat cruise with a reputable operator offering small-sized cruises, such as the Dragon Pearl Junk Boat, giving you enough time to completely take in its beauty and splendour. Visit the floating villages of fishermen and pearl farms and discover the simple ways of living here. While away your time swimming or kayaking around the rock formations, exploring the mystical caves or wandering along one of the many small beaches.
It is worth noting that weather can be quite cool from the months of December through to February, and the monsoon season brings with it a lot of rainfall. It may not have such a famous name like Halong Bay, but Bai Tu Long is worth going that little bit further for a more peaceful, authentic experience.
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