Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular travel destination in northern Vietnam. The name Ha Long means “descending dragon” in Vietnamese, and it refers to the legend that a dragon descended from heaven to help the Vietnamese people fight against invaders. The dragon spat out jewels that turned into thousands of islands and islets, forming a natural fortress in the sea. Ha Long Bay covers an area of 43,400 hectares and includes over 1,600 islands and islets, most of which are uninhabited and unaffected by humans. The bay features a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars, arches, caves and other landforms that are the result of millions of years of geological processes. The bay is also home to a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, including many endemic species. Ha Long Bay has a long history of human use and cultural significance. Archaeological evidence shows that prehistoric humans lived in the area tens of thousands of years ago. The bay also witnessed some important events in Vietnamese history, such as the naval battles between the Vietnamese and the Mongols in the 13th century, and the resistance against the French colonialists in the 19th century. Many artifacts, relics and monuments can be found in the bay, such as Bai Tho mountain, Dau Go cave and Bai Chay beach. Ha Long Bay is not only a natural wonder but also a masterpiece of art and poetry. Many Vietnamese poets and writers have praised the beauty and charm of the bay in their works, such as Nguyen Trai, Ho Chi Minh and Hoang Nhuan Cam. The bay has also inspired many artists and filmmakers from around the world, such as James Bond’s Tomorrow Never Dies (1997) and Kong: Skull Island (2017). Ha Long Bay offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors, such as cruising, kayaking, swimming, diving, hiking, biking, fishing and exploring. There are also many options for accommodation, from luxury cruises to budget hotels and homestays. Some of the most popular attractions in the bay are Titop island, Sung Sot cave, Thien Cung cave, Luon cave, Vung Vieng fishing village and Cat Ba island. Ha Long Bay is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to discover the natural beauty, cultural heritage and artistic creativity of Vietnam. It is a place where the dragon descends to the sea, where the past meets the present, and where the imagination meets reality.