Making the most of Qui Nhon
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cruise vessels berth 5km from town, and taxis are available.
Bring a printable map.
Ha Long City, the principal city of Quang Ninh province, is blessed with 1969 beautiful stone islands rising from the water. UNESCO recognised Ha Long Bay twice as a World Natural Heritage site, first in1994 and again in 2000, affirming its exceptional value. Seen from above, Long Bay has been compared to a painting, with nature's skilful strokes transforming thousands of lifeless stone islands into fantastic sculptural and artistic forms with graceful outlines. Thousands of islands rise unevenly from the distant waves, appearing powerful and magnificent yet peaceful. Within the stone islands are various breathtaking…
Ha Long also contains diverse ecosystems such as mangrove forests, coral reefs and tropical forests. Thousands of plants and animals live here, including particularly rare species found nowhere else.
Getting around
Expect an authentic Vietnamese experience in this colourful town, still undiscovered by most travellers. Stroll at a relaxed pace, sample local specialities fresh from brightly coloured fishing boats, or discover the ancient Cham temples.
International driving licences are not recognised in Vietnam. Consequently, no car-hire firms such as Hertz and Avis etc. operate.
Money
The national currency is the dong (d?ng, VND). U.S. dollars are accepted widely, with a standard small-quantity exchange rate of 16000 dong to US$1.
ATMs are becoming increasingly common and can be found in most larger cities and every tourist destination.
Almost anything can be bargained over in Vietnam.
Staying connected
Vietnamese people speak Vietnamese as their native language, while English is becoming more popular as a second language. Studying English is compulsory in most schools.
Internet access is offered everywhere except the most remote towns.
Opening Hours and
Shopping hours are Daily 0800/0830-2100/2200.
Tet, or Vietnamese New Year, is by far the year's largest holiday. Following the unisolar Chinese calendar, it falls between late January and March. Shops close for the three days of Tet and everyone returns to their family, making travel in Vietnam somewhat difficult.