Islands in Vietnam are praised by international newspapers as 'paradise'

With places like Bali, Phuket and Koh Samui packed with foreign tourists, and Bali collapsing under the weight of overtourism, it has become a trend for many tourists to seek the authenticity of a destination rather than snap photos to post on social media.

"Fortunately, there is a 'paradise' right here in Vietnam that is still unknown to many international tourists, and that is where you can experience the unmistakable oriental features," continued the US magazine Travel Off Path.

Photo posted on Travel off Path to introduce Cat Ba archipelago as "paradise"

PHOTO: TRAVEL OFF PATH

The article emphasizes: It should be said right away that this is not another article about Phu Quoc, according to a new survey by Agoda, one of the most searched destinations in Vietnam today is the mysterious Cat Ba.

Cat Ba is one of the few resort islands that has not yet been invested in by major developers. With a population of about 18,934 permanent residents, it is located in Lan Ha Bay, a biosphere reserve that is less known than the world- famous but equally beautiful Ha Long Bay.

Massive limestone karsts rise from emerald waters, jungle-covered peaks are home to a variety of wildlife, and pristine beaches are virtually litter-free.

Cat Ba is gradually becoming a destination, attracting tourists from all over not because of its luxury hotels but mainly because of its "rustic" beauty.

This is why tourists can never get bored of Cat Ba.

Part of Cat Ba archipelago seen from above

PHOTO: GIANG LINH

Many on TripAdvisor have praised Cat Ba for its relaxed atmosphere, peaceful surroundings, the friendliness of the locals, and overall sense of privacy.

Located a short drive from Cat Ba town, the main settlement, the Cat Co chain of beaches, numbered 1 to 3, is sought after for its pristine white sand, turquoise sea and spectacular ocean views.

They are connected via a picturesque coastal road, surrounded by lush green nature, the further away the quieter it gets, Cat Co 1 is popular, Cat Co 2 is quiet and finally Cat Co 3 is truly wild, surrounded by high waves.

The entire island is also a protected nature reserve, forming Cat Ba National Park, where demarcated trails lead to stunning lookout points, boasting views of the coastline, as well as the limestone karst-dotted bay in the distance.

On that note, one of the best views on the island is Cannon Fort, a French colonial fort perched on a high hill.

PHOTO: GIANG LINH

Aside from its natural wonders, Cat Ba is also rich in culture: a tight-knit island community, family ties run deep and when you visit you will feel welcomed into someone's home, with genuine smiles and hearty food.

Viet Hai is a peaceful village that preserves the Vietnamese way of life without the excesses of the modern world.

Although you may have some trouble communicating with the locals because of their English speaking ability, rest assured, you will feel the hospitality.

Cai Beo Floating Village, is one of the oldest settlements in Vietnam, where modest wooden houses are built right on the water.

Cat Ba town itself shouldn't be overlooked, with affordable family-run eateries serving $1 pho and other Vietnamese delights, and plenty of tourist-friendly spots.

PHOTO: GIANG LINH

Speaking of affordable, you might wonder how cheap this island really is to visit, considering it is remote, tucked away in the clear, calm waters of Lan Ha Bay and only accessible by boat from the mainland.

Surprisingly, despite its paradisiacal appeal, it's just as cheap, if not cheaper, than other tropical hotspots in Southeast Asia.

Thanhnien.vn

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/quan-dao-o-viet-nam-duoc-bao-quoc-te-ca-ngoi-nhu-vuon-dia-dang-18525032011455449.htm