The cave was gorgeous; high ceilings with incredible rock formations shaped by years and years of trickling sea water.  This left the rocks with the bits of salt in them that made them sparkle in the light and created an overall effect that was quite magical. 

A short walk from this cave was a small, rocky hill that we climbed (although on our way back down it seemed more like a rocky cliff edge) in order to get a better view of the area.  Getting down was a bit scary, but the view was well worth it! From Thien Long Cave we took boat to Mr. Thanh’s shrimp ponds – the strictly protected area of Cat Ba National Park.  We ate dinner with Mr. Thanh’s family in the park and watched the sun set over the surrounding shrimp ponds and mango trees. 

 

A view of mangroves from the silver rock

I cannot forget the trip back. The boat was navigated by the light of a very bright moon in a very clear sky.  It was a beautiful! 

The next day we did some more touring, including a visit to the Ma cave (“Grave” cave) area and a stunning but forgotten-looking beach.  The motorcycle ride also provided us a chance to admire the countryside and appreciate how varied and interesting it is. 

 

Ma cave; Ao Coi village, Phu Long commune

We also spent a lot of our trip at the Garden Cafe in the Phu Long Commune.  The cafe itself is mostly outdoors; a mix of different covered sitting areas, gardens and well-placed hammocks.  It backs on to even more shrimp ponds; I had a chance to wander quietly through them, following the small soil paths separating the ponds.  The whole place has a tranquil, relaxed atmosphere and the owner and his family are friendly and keen to help. 

Cat Ba islands are known for their beautiful scenery and, while I saw only a small part, I believe that the Phu Long Commune and surrounding area hosts a surprising number of these beautiful sights and at the same time is home to a friendly community that has not been overrun by tourism.  It is definitely a must-see location for the responsible traveler. 

Melissa Stockton

Internship in MCD