Off to Cat Ba Island

Our journey toward Cat Ba Island takes us first through Hai Phong, Vietnam’s third-largest city. There, we stop at a local grill restaurant — smoky air, lively atmosphere, and tables filled with sizzling dishes. It’s a proper introduction to northern Vietnam’s energy.

Hai Phong also leaves a strong ideological impression. We pass a poster dedicated to “Heroes of Socialist Labor,” with a large image of Ho Chi Minh watching from above. The symbolism is unmistakable. A wall painting of strong, determined-looking communist women standing proudly — reminders that the revolutionary narrative remains very much alive in public space.

From there, we continue toward the coast and finally arrive on Cat Ba Island. Marek, naturally, attempts to look effortlessly cool upon arrival. Whether he succeeds is open to interpretation.

A bus takes us from the harbor into Cat Ba town. The scenery shifts into lush greenery and limestone formations — a preview of what awaits in the surrounding bay area.

When we reach our hotel and step onto the balcony, the view confirms we’ve made the right decision. The sea stretches out before us, calm and inviting.

Kristina, meanwhile, quickly embraces the local cuisine — including some very small seafood “friends” that don’t stand much of a chance.

Cat Ba feels like the beginning of something new: coastal air, island energy, and the promise of exploring the legendary landscapes of Ha Long Bay.