Ha Long meaning refers to the legend of a dragon's descent into Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. This mythical tale has given rise to the area's rich culture and natural beauty, attracting visitors from all over the world. Coming to this glorious bay, tourists will definitely get a unique and unforgettable experience that combines beauty, history, and adventure.
1. Ha Long meaning and the origin of the name "Ha Long"
What does “Ha Long” mean? Ha Long meaning in Vietnamese can be translated to “Descending Dragon".
Actually, the name "Ha Long Bay" was not recorded in ancient Vietnamese literature before the 19th century. Then, it was mostly known by other names such as Giao Chau, Luc Thuy, An Bang, An Quang, Hai Dong, Hoa Phong, Nghieu Phong, etc.
It wasn't until the late 19th century that the name "Ha Long Bay" appeared on the French maritime map of the Gulf of Tonkin and in some French and Vietnamese newspapers.
According to a French newspaper article, the name "Ha Long Bay" originated from the sighting of giant sea snakes in the bay by Lieutenant Lagrédin and his crew on the French warship "Avalanse" in 1898.
The creatures were reminiscent of dragons in Asian mythology, leading to the naming of the area as Ha Long Bay. This story is recounted in the book "Quang Ninh Culture and Art" (2002).
The name of Ha Long Bay meaning is also linked to a Vietnamese legend, which tells the story of dragons descending from the heavens to help Vietnamese people fight foreign invaders and protect their homeland.
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2. Awards that Ha Long Bay has achieved
In addition to the interesting Ha Long meaning, this bay has long been considered a natural wonder of the world, drawing visitors from all over the globe to admire its breathtaking beauty.
Over the years, Ha Long Bay has been recognized for its outstanding cultural and natural values, and has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and titles. Below are some of the awards that Ha Long Bay has achieved, which highlight the significance of this magical destination:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site (1994)
- Member of the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World (2003)
- National Tourism Area (2006)
- ASEAN Heritage Park (2009)
- Top 7 New Natural Wonders of the World (2011-2012)
- Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor (2013-2020)
- Green Lotus Label Award for Sustainable Tourism Development (2018)
- Asia's Leading Destination Award by World Travel Awards (2019)
- Vietnam's Leading Destination Award by World Travel Awards (2020)
- Safe Travel Stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (2020)
- Asia's Leading Destination Award by World Travel Awards (2021)
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3. Famous tourist attractions in Ha Long Bay
Ha Long's meaning has definitely highlighted the bay’s beauty. With over 1,600 limestone islets and islands jutting out of the turquoise waters, Ha Long Bay offers tourists a stunning landscape for various entertaining activities.
Some famous attractions that you should not miss out on during your Ha Long trip are:
Located just off the coast of Ha Long Bay, Tuan Chau Island is famous for its stunning natural scenery, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear water, making it a perfect nature retreat for tourists. The island offers a wide range of activities such as water sports, shopping, and dining, and is home to a number of high-end resorts and hotels, making it an ideal location for those looking for a luxurious vacation.
To truly understand Ha Long meaning, tourists should go on an adventure through Thien Cung Cave. The cave has unique and intricate limestone formations, and you can marvel at the beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites in a mystical and otherworldly setting. The cave also has a rich history with ancient legends associated with it, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the cultural and natural heritage of Vietnam.
Ti Top Island features a white sandy beach and crystal-clear water, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also climb up to the top of the island for panoramic views of the bay.
Dau Go Cave is famous for its breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years. Visitors can explore the cave's three chambers and see unique rock formations that resemble mythical creatures.
Cua Van Floating Village is a charming attraction located in the heart of Ha Long Bay. This village is home to a community of fishermen who live on the water and make a living from the sea. Visitors can explore the village by boat and admire the picturesque scenery of the surrounding limestone cliffs. Cua Van Floating Village is a great place to experience the local culture and enjoy the peaceful nature of Ha Long Bay.
Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, is famous for its unique rock formations which are illuminated by natural light filtering in from the cave's openings. The cave's name comes from the surprise and awe that visitors experience upon entering and witnessing its magnificent interior.
Ha Long Night Market is a popular destination for tourists to experience the local life of Ha Long. Located near Bai Chay Beach, the market is known for its wide variety of products, from traditional souvenirs to delicious street food. Open from 6 pm to midnight, it is a great place to stroll around and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while shopping and trying out the local delicacies.
Thien Canh Son Cave is a natural masterpiece that offers visitors an immersive experience in the underground wonders of the region. With its colorful stalactites and stalagmites, the cave is a must-visit attraction for those looking to explore the beauty of Ha Long Bay beyond its famous beaches and islands.
To fully immerse yourself in Ha Long meaning, you should consider booking accommodations with highly-rated services. It is recommended to spend your trip at Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long for the best stay. This is a luxurious resort located on Reu Island, boasting 384 well-appointed rooms and suites, all featuring stunning views of the bay.
Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long offers an array of facilities and services, including restaurants, bars, a fitness center, a spa, a kid's club, and an outdoor pool. Guests can enjoy various water sports and activities here, such as kayaking, fishing, and squid fishing. The resort promises an unforgettable stay with its world-class services and breathtaking scenery.
>>> Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long in advance to prepare for your upcoming trip!
With stunning scenery, cultural heritage, and the inspiring legend behind Ha Long meaning, Ha Long Bay is a true gem of nature that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. From exploring the magnificent caves to enjoying the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Ha Long Bay. A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone.
>>> Don’t forget to book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long for the best stay in Ha Long!
