Back on the road today, with a 3hr bus ride north to Cat Ba Island. We left Ninh Binh early, just before 7am and timed it well, leaving behind heavy rain clouds.
Our bus journey proved to be quicker than expected, and we arrived at Cat Hai Island for our short car ferry at 10am.
It’s fair to say, that communication once we were at the ferry wasn’t the best and we trailed after a few fellow local passengers from our bus, picking up our luggage and joining the boat as foot passengers before picking up a fresh new coach once on Cat Ba Island.
The ferry ride was only a short hop of roughly a mile or so, which was probably a blessing as the boat looked like it had seen better days, with more bumps & scrapes than a dodgem car!
The crossing over to the main island is also accessible via a large cable car, however whilst we were waiting for the ferry, we noticed that the cable cars had been stopped for upwards of 20mins and at that height it would have stopped being an enjoyable view!
After a short bus journey once on the island, we arrived at our hotel the MGallery, a real 5 star treat. It’s located in a fantastic spot looking out across the beach and onto Lan Ha Bay.
With the afternoon opening up and the sun putting in a short appearance we headed to the beach and a brief dip in the warm waters. The bay is surrounded by a series of mini islands akin to Ha Lang Bay but thankfully less touristy.
Andy was feeling adventurous so went for a walk along the headland and on to the next beach where we came across a stunning hotel called the Flamingo, which appeared to be at one with its surroundings, with green planting at each floor and balcony.
With the weather proving to be a little unpredictable we went for a brief tour of the hotel grounds and the various pools, one of which sits adjacent to the sea with views out beyond the pool bar (!) and out across the small bay.
Having missed lunch and had only a brief early breakfast, we went to nearby Cat Hai in search of dinner and found a great place opposite the harbour.
Quiri restaurant proved to be a favourite with Westerners and we were soon tucking into a couple of IPA beers and veggie curries which were delicious.
After an enjoyable meal, we went to explore the town and to organise a boat trip to cruise around Lan Ha Bay, which is deemed to be as beautiful as Ha Lang Bay but without the crowds. All being well the plan is to go out in a couple of days time when the weather improves.
After a walk around the seafront we headed into the market and came across some locals with their seafood catch. It’s shellfish of some sort, but as to what type we are unsure!
Like other beach towns in Vietnam, Cat Ba seafront has its fair share of illuminated attractions.
After a pleasant walk around Cat Hai we returned to our hotel early evening and had a relaxing time up on the roof top, before retiring to bed and some much needed sleep after our early start this morning.
Tomorrow, subject to the weather, we plan to go for a coastal walk and take in the views out across the bay.
@travellingwiththeateam 