The tranquil beach of Van Don in Vietnam

Many tourists consider Halong Bay tours as the highlight of the Halong area, but if you have time, I recommend exploring Van Don as well. Located about an hour away from Halong, it doesn't have public transportation, but since taxi fares are inexpensive in the country, it's worth giving it a try. Van Don offers a different charm compared to the bustling Halong area. With almost no tourists around, you can peacefully enjoy the serene beach all to yourself. If you head towards the mountains, there's also a stunning temple that makes for a great sightseeing spot.