We set sail into Halong Bay on a misty morning with the imposing limestone karsts looming out of the water. We glided past what seemed like hundreds of these beautiful tree-covered rocks glowing green against the sky blue waters. Our first stop was Thien Cung Cave which was a huge lit-up cavern filled with stalactite and stalagmite formations. We played the shape spotting game, seeing jellyfish, turtles, a naked man and lots of grim faces. It was very impressive but had the slightly unreal feeling of a film set with the paved walkway and the coloured lights. We then sailed to our kayaking spot, a beautiful lagoon which we entered through a cave. At one point we were the only kayak floating in the clear water surrounded by sheer rock faces and eagles soaring above our heads. It was like paradise. It was James' first kayaking experience and I think it will be hard to beat. As the sun was setting, we all swam in the warm waters of the bay. After a delicious dinner, we all departed to the top deck where a makeshift bar had been set up, complete with music and fairy lights. We all sang, and played drinking games into the night.