Day 131 Mary 24, 2023 Ha Long Bay World Cruise Event

 Day 131 May 24, 2023 Port: Hanoi (Ha Long Bay) Tour Length: Half-Day (Approximately 4 1/2 hours) Tour Price $0.00 ATW Special Event

Tour Description **** 2023 ATW CRUISE EVENT ****

Captivating Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most stunning sights in Southeast Asia. Its nearly 1,600 islands and islets, jutting out of the bright green waters of the Gulf of Tonkin, have an ancient origin in the mythology of dragons that descended from heaven to protect Vietnam. Arrive at Vung Duc Cave, a fascinating site comprised of multiple caves, and experience the welcoming of a dragon dance prior to entering the caves. Search and explore the area, then find your seat and watch the world shift as the lights go out and candles become your only source of light. The dinner show, a skilled local band with accompanying dancers, entertains as you savor a fresh and delectable local cuisine complete with wonderful wine pairings. This special evening will be one you won’t soon forget.

This night was incredible.  We had a greeting including dragon dancers, drummers, confetti, firecrackers and sparklers.  The setting was inside a huge cave with several rooms.  The first room where the drinks were served was big.  There were two musicians taking turns playing the flute and the saxophone along with recorded songs during happy hour.  The dining room was another huge cavern.  There were tables for 380 people,  a buffet of  Vietnamese food offered opportunities to expand my horizons.  I didn't like some foods.  The entertainment included unique Vietnamese instruments and dancers.  The night ended with a deejay and a lot of dancing.  It was a fun night and may be the best World Event of the four we have experienced.  There were no candles, the lights were always on and were used to set the desired mood. 

There was another huge room that was empty so this venue could accommodate a lot more people.  It would be an interesting venue for a wedding.  There were floral archways.  

There were two lines of women standing at the entrance when we arrived and when we departed.  I wonder if they stood there all night.

                                    Two interesting instruments played by Vietnamese musicians.