Cat Ba among the best islands in Southeast Asia

According to the article, Cat Ba with an area of over 260 km² is the largest island in the Ha Long Bay complex, standing out with its limestone mountain landscape, diverse marine ecosystem and increasingly popular adventure tourism activities.

An American magazine described Cat Ba as “a paradise for climbing enthusiasts”, especially in Butterfly Valley, where steep cliffs, winding caves and wild landscapes create an irresistible attraction.

Cat Ba Island is ranked among the best islands in Southeast Asia. Photo: Vietnam Airlines.

Cat Ba Island is ranked among the best islands in Southeast Asia. Photo: Vietnam Airlines .

“Cat Ba’s limestone cliffs are an adventurer’s playground. Visitors can climb ropes over deep water, or take the safer route by conquering Ngu Lam Peak for panoramic views of the island. At night, kayaking amid waters glowing with plankton is an unforgettable magical experience,” writes National Geographic Traveler.

Not only outstanding for its majestic natural beauty, Cat Ba also impresses with its efforts to develop sustainable tourism, aiming at a balance between exploitation and conservation. Tourists can visit Cat Ba National Park, explore Viet Hai fishing village, or enjoy fresh seafood on the beach, enjoying the fresh air typical of the "green pearl of the North".

Professional rock climbing guide Ben Wilman scales a cliff barefoot off the coast of Cat Ba. Photo: National Geographic Traveller

“Cat Ba is not only the gateway to Ha Long Bay but also a symbol of adventure tourism and nature conservation in Vietnam,” the article commented.

In addition to Cat Ba, National Geographic Traveler's list of "The Best Islands in Southeast Asia" also names a series of other outstanding destinations in the region.

In Thailand, Koh Chang Island is praised as a “green gem” with dense tropical rainforests, pristine white sand beaches and a peaceful pace of life, ideal for those who want to temporarily get away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok or Phuket.

Penang, Malaysia impresses with its multi-ethnic culture and world-famous street food, considered the “taste paradise” of Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, Komodo, Indonesia conquers visitors with its wild beauty and is the only place in the world where you can see the legendary Komodo dragon.

Panay and Isla Verde, Philippines, attract with pristine beaches, turquoise waters and a slow-paced tropical lifestyle. Java, Indonesia is the cultural and historical heart of the archipelago nation, celebrated for its ancient temples, rich culture and majestic volcanic landscapes.

Notably, Don Khong of Laos, an island located in the middle of the Mekong River of a landlocked country, is also on the list thanks to its rustic, peaceful beauty and slow pace of life, fully reflecting the spirit of "Laos - the land of a million elephants".

The fact that Cat Ba was ranked by National Geographic Traveler as one of the most beautiful islands in Southeast Asia is not only a source of pride for Vietnamese tourism, but also a testament to the appeal of Vietnamese nature and people on the world tourism map.

With its majestic landscape, diverse ecosystem and sustainable development, Cat Ba is gradually affirming its position as a leading international destination, worthy of the title "green pearl of the Gulf of Tonkin".

According to Hong Nhung (TPO)

Source: https://baogialai.com.vn/cat-ba-lot-top-nhung-hon-dao-tuyet-nhat-dong-nam-a-post571443.html