Monkey Business & A Boatload of gratitude

Today was the kind that goes down in the memory bank, filed under: Why can't every Thursday be like this?

We waved goodbye to Hanoi this morning, refreshed, revived, and raring to go, we loaded up the bus and rolled toward the iconic Ha Long Bay, spirits high and vocal cords even higher.

Now, you might think a three-hour bus ride sounds dull. But not with this crew. Karaoke made its triumphant return, echoing off the windows with renditions of everything from Katy Perry to full-volume, off-key belters like Jimmy Barnes. Some moments were more Australian Idol audition than actual idol material, but we won't name names. Teachers joined in, students rallied around, and our legendary tour guide Martin stunned the bus with a traditional parade song. The crowd roared. 

But wait, there's more. Before boarding our floating hotel (or swanky cruise ship), we made a pit stop at a pearl farm. Educational? Absolutely. Inspirational? Yes. Affordable? Well... unless someone’s taking out a loan for Mother's Day, we left with knowledge, not necklaces.

Then came the  main event, boarding the Ambassador Cruise. Picture this, towering limestone cliffs covered in rainforest, water glistening, and staff who treat you like royalty on holiday. 

Afternoon adventures took us kayaking and boat paddling through sea caves, where we encountered a cheeky gang of monkeys chilling on the shore like they owned the place. They might, honestly. Mere metres away, we paddled past them, marveling at how surreal this experience was. Back on board, we recharged with refreshments before heading to the beach for a swim or hike.

Was the water as clear as Aussie beaches? Not quite. But that didn’t matter. Because standing on that beach, in this breathtaking place, we felt nothing but gratitude for our home, for this experience, and for the people beside us.

As the sun dipped behind the towering islands, we all got a little quiet. Reflective. Because tomorrow is ANZAC Day. And being here, in this place, with newly formed mates by your side, it hits different.

So as we wrap up today, filled with laughter, songs, monkey encounters, and heartfelt reflections, we can only say this:

We came to Ha Long Bay as tourists, but today we cruised like legends.

Bring on the dawn.

Kat Thompson