fog on Halong Bay?

[bobgail]

I now hear that January isn't a good time to cruise Halong Bay in Vietnam because of the fog at that time. Anyone know anything about this? If true, then what are the best months for visiting Vietnam?

 

(posted this in error on another thread)

[greatam]

I now hear that January isn't a good time to cruise Halong Bay in Vietnam because of the fog at that time. Anyone know anything about this? If true, then what are the best months for visiting Vietnam?

 

(posted this in error on another thread)

 

Could be fog. I have been there in January. Don't particularly remember fog, but the temperatures are definitely cooler (which is a blessing). I go to the ports in both Hanoi and Saigon-it is my business.

 

High season in Vietnam-mid September to December. This is the typical tourist time. BUT it is even MORE crowded then. And that is also typhoon season.

 

January will be fine. Stay away from the end of January into February. That is TET, Vietnamese New Year. Usually a raucous, rowdy situation, but the fireworks are spectacular. I landed in Hanoi last year two days before TET. Vietnam roads are ALWAYS a zoo. Last year was just unbelievable-took almost 2 hours to get from the airport (normal transfer is usually 45 minutes to an hour).

 

Enjoy!!!! It is a fabulous country just now making it's way in the world.

[EVillExec]

I now hear that January isn't a good time to cruise Halong Bay in Vietnam because of the fog at that time. Anyone know anything about this? If true, then what are the best months for visiting Vietnam?

 

(posted this in error on another thread)

 

I now hear that January isn't a good time to cruise Halong Bay in Vietnam because of the fog at that time. Anyone know anything about this? If true, then what are the best months for visiting Vietnam?

 

(posted this in error on another thread)

 

I love SE Asia (been there 3 times) but let me tell you it is hot and humid year round with the only break comes in North Vietnam in January. If there is fog, it will be early morning and burn off by 9. Halong Bay overnight cruises on Junks are so amazing, they are both very relaxing but with a lot to see at the same time.

 

More than the fog, avoid the half day cruises. They tend to be tacky, trying to sell you things since you are not booking a cabin, gong to a casino or drinking evening cocktails. On those ships, especially now with high fuel costs, you stay fairly close to where you embark and you do not see much of the hidden wonders, just the very basics. You miss the hidden coves and ragged coastline. The short cruises tend to be about 4 hours and they all seem to hang out together near port. Its basically like taking dinner cruise where you spend most of your time dining and precious little time on deck sightseeing; absolutely no time to go ashore mid-cruise to a pretty cove or cave. You have the time---definitely spend a magical one out on Halong Bay---far from the maddening day trippers!