dragon’s back – 2.5.10-2.9.10
February 10, 2010
They assured us the weather would be good, but the drizzle that started as we drove into Halong harbor told us otherwise. As the boat sailed into Halong Bay, I could make out the faint presence of rocky formations veiled in mist, as if viewing behind a rice paper screen. Legend has it that the dragon that helped the Vietnamese defeat their enemy hundreds of years ago settled in these water and became the thousands of limestone karsts that dot the bay. As gorgeous as the rocks would be under the sun, there was a certain mystical quality about the mist, making the cliffs hauntingly beautiful. Kayaking through these formations and the peaceful water was a surreal experience.
I’m leaving Hanoi (and Vietnam) tomorrow, all too soon and with a bit of sadness. I know I’ll come back soon, to this beautiful country with lush forests, green fields, and warm people. And next time I do, it’ll be on a motorcycle.
