Our time in Vietnam is almost over and we have really enjoyed exploring the trifecta of Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay and Hanoi. We squeezed one last activity into our time in Ninh Binh on our last morning there–we climbed the 464 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain for panoramic views of the town and countryside and that got a look at Hang Múa (Mua Cave). It was drizzly and overcast which made the climb much more manageable. I would not have wanted to do that in the direct sun with humidity! The views were spectacular. About one third of the way down, there was another viewpoint you could walk up to. Steffen and I took the detour while the girls waited below with their well-deserved ice cream. From there, you could see the lotus pond that must be spectacular in the summer. It was still very pretty to walk through, even without all the bright pink blooms. Afterwards we headed to our favourite pizza place in town and then made the 3.5 hour drive to Ha Long Bay. It was a great way to wrap up our time in Ninh Binh.

We spent just three nights in Ha Long Bay, mainly because we wanted to do an all day cruise through the bay. When we arrived Saturday afternoon, we were very happy with our hotel! A bit of luxury! Steffen and I left the girls at the hotel on Saturday evening to enjoy a rare treat–room service! We dropped off the laundry (11 kilos!!), found some delicious street food and enjoyed a 45 minute foot massage–a successful date night!

On Sunday, we headed out on our cruise. Unfortunately, Olivia had come down with a cold but she did rally. She came on the boat but skipped out on a few of the excursions. When we arrived at the port, we saw where all the tourists are! I think many people make it a day trip from Hanoi, so that’s why you don’t see many tourists in the city of Ha Long but a ton on boats in the bay. The day was overcast and a bit chilly but still very beautiful. The boat was large with three levels to eat, relax, and even swim in a mini (unfortunately cold) pool.

Our first stop was a cave (Hung Luon) on Bo Hon Island where we could either go kayaking in pairs or take a small wooden boat from the pier through the cave into a beautiful bay. Hannah and Steffen chose to kayak while the rest of us went in the wooden boat. It was beautiful but also so crowded!

We relaxed a bit on the boat and then had our next stop, Sung Sot Cave. This place was huge! And also incredibly crowded. For this one, all the girls chose to stay on the boat while Steffen and I hiked up the steps (got some great views) and then into the cave to explore. It really was awe-inspiring.

Our final stop was Ti Top Island with a viewpoint that was incredible! There was also a beach but it was (again!) super crowded so we didn’t hang around there too long. Hannah and Luisa (who was very reluctant) hiked with us while Olivia and Charlotte stayed on the boat.

Then it was time to head back to the hotel where the city was glowing from the rooftop deck. The next day was rainy so we focused on getting some work done, stepping out just to pick up the laundry and eat a couple of meals. Something we noticed that we found interesting was that many of the buildings had some sort of business on the ground floor and then stairs in the back area that directly led to their living space. If they didn’t not have a business, then mopeds were parked on that ground floor.

A glimpse at Monday, November 3:

Then on Tuesday we got back in the car (we have had private drivers take us around SE Asia for the most part since it’s often cheaper than 6 bus/train tickets and is more relaxing than either renting a car or doing a shared vehicle) and headed to Hanoi. So far we mostly explored the Old Town (where we are staying) but also ventured out to a small trampoline park for the girls to let off some steam and saw the famous water puppet show at Thang Long Theater.

Tuesday, November 4:

Wednesday, November 5:

Thursday, November 6: