Christmas in Halong Bay: A Unique Festive Experience
Steeped in legend and shrouded in history, Ha Long Bay is arguably Vietnam’s most recognized landscape. Over 1,600 karst limestone peaks pepper the luminous turquoise water, creating a panorama as dramatic as its Chinese translation – Dragon Tail Bay. The UNESCO-listed bay also features a wide range of biodiversity, including monkeys, deer, and rare squirrels. While there may not be snow or chimneys for Santa to descend, a Christmas in Halong Bay is certainly unforgettable and has become increasingly popular for tourists wishing for a different way to spend the holidays. Here’s what you should know.
Transport
Northern Vietnam boasts history, culture, kind-hearted people, and sophisticated cuisine. Halong Bay is the aqua-blue gem in Northern Vietnam’s crown, and its accessibility from the capital, Hanoi, makes it an easy place to relax for a few days without worrying about transportation. Trains, public and private buses, and cars will be leaving multiple times daily during the festive season, but specific times and dates will need to be booked in advance.
Personal Possessions
The region’s increasing popularity as a festive destination means that central parts of Halong Bay and neighboring Cat Ba can be busy, with locals and tourists spreading good cheer. While the atmosphere is generally convivial and friendly (one of the main reasons to spend Christmas in the area), it is worth taking extra care of your gadgets and wallets, especially if you’re likely to have a few drinks and might leave them somewhere.
Weather
Although not as cold as winter months in parts of Europe and the USA, northern Vietnam can be deceptively chilly at Christmas time. The coldest months are generally November to February, with temperatures dropping to 10°C. While this may not seem very cold (especially if you’re from northern Europe), two factors can make this temperature feel quite cold.
First, the humidity; while European and American winters can be colder, the moisture in the air in northern Vietnam can feel cloying and uncomfortable, making it harder to warm up. Second, there is rarely air conditioning or central heating in this region (although places catering to tourists such as hotels and restaurants usually have heating). It’s worth keeping in mind, so do remember to take a few jumpers and long pants.
Costs
As with everywhere on the planet during the festive period, expect prices to be at a premium. Overnight cruises can range from 250 USD to 800 USD per person per night in a cabin, not including drinks and tips. Our advice is to book well in advance and to pack a little extra cash with you just in case. It can be pricey, but so is Christmas everywhere, and this time you don’t need to shell out for an entire turkey plus all the trimmings! A Halong Bay cruise is definitely something for your lifetime bucket list. For inspiration on which luxury cruise to book, contact us at for the best advice for your trip this Christmas.
