Halong Bay  - Katy's POV:

Its not often that something exceeds your expectations, but Halong Bay did.  It was just absolutely breathtaking. I had to stop myself from taking photos continually, as at every turn there seemed to be another awe inspiring view. Kayaking gave us a real opportunity to see all the different shapes and sizes of karsts, even going into some caves. It also meant we could reach some secluded, idyllic beaches. we were on the water for two nights, and when the anchor dropped for the night, you couldnt hear a sound. Highlights for me were numerous, but i particularly liked kayaking back to the boat at sunset:

The food on the boat was delicious, although 7 courses is too much for lunch and dinner so we skipped dinner on the second night and chilled out in our cabin (you know I can't resist a jacuzzi and with a strawberry daiquiri in one hand and a book in the other, it was just bliss!).

Megan mentioned the floating fishing village...what an experience. They were put together in various locations on the bay when it was granted unesco world heritage status. Prior to that the families just lived on their boats (some still do). There is a school (only for primary aged children) and a floating shop comes from the mainland weekly. The villages are positioned in particularly sheltered sections of the bay, to protect them from typhoons and storms. When these come, the families stay out on the water, their houses are just pulled further back nearer the karsts.

 I could go on and on but Dean says that I am not re writing war and peace, so I will leave it there. (I also feel as if i am still on the boat and my head is spinning). If you want to see more photos send Dean an email - deanhowford@hotmail.co.uk and he will send you our Flickr link