Ha Long Bay is a nature’s wonder that makes people speechless. If you are in Hanoi, it is recommended that you keep aside some extra time in your busy itinerary to make a trip to the Ha Long Bay. Many companies offer day trips with a free pick up from the hotels. Pick-ups are arranged at around 7:30 – 8:00 am from the hotels in and around the old quarter. One can expect a 3.5-hour comfortable journey in a 7 passenger mini- van to the Ha Long Bay. However, there are some companies that are known for picking up passengers in minivans which could be very uncomfortable. One should inquire about it before actually booking the tours. Passengers usually arrive at noon to Ha Long Bay and they are transported by small boats to the main ferry at the centre of the bay. Lunch is provided when you sail through the limestone rocks, caves and the floating villages. Some offer kayaking for 30-40 minutes in the calm water of the Bay. Tourists are transported back to the pier at around 4:00 – 4:30 pm and dropped off to the hotel at around 7:30 pm.