Ha Long Bay

Another iconic stop on my Vietnam journey was Halong Bay, and even though I only had time for a one-day tour, it was enough to understand why this place is so famous. Towering limestone karsts rose straight out of the emerald green water, scattered across the bay like a natural maze. The boat glided between them, offering ever-changing views that felt peaceful and cinematic at the same time.

We visited some impressive caves hidden within the cliffs, full of interesting rock formations and soft lighting. Later, I did a short hike to a viewpoint, and from above, the whole bay unfolded beneath me... jagged peaks surrounded by calm waters, boats drifting slowly between them.