Page 18 - asia

Striking rock formations provides dramatic settings for the
tourist junks in Halong Bay. Bottom: Mary James in one of the
many exotic caves located in the islands in Halong Bay. Right top:
Little girl play on one of the homes in the floating village. Right
bottom: Groups of visitors are taken for tours of the floating
village in Halong Bay..

rants abound, where you can sample nam’s northeast coast, Halong Bay
refreshing Thai classics including is home to nearly 2,000 limestone
fresh seafood, tangy soups and sa- islands that rise hundreds of feet
vory and sweet curries. Shopping is high above emerald-green water.
delightful at the new riverfront Asi- Their exotic shapes, often shrouded
atique with its mix of small vendors, in mist, are a UNESCO World Heri-
antique shops, restaurants and street tage site. Half-day and full-day junk
entertainers. cruises are fine, but if your ship is in
port for two days, an overnight lux-
Halong Bay, Vietnam ury junk cruise is an unforgettably
immersive experience.
The highlight of many cruisers to
Southeast Asia is sailing through
magical Halong Bay. Located on Viet-

18 Wine Dine & Travel Winter 2015