Located 160km east of Hanoi, Ha Long, the gem of northern Vietnam, is famous for its world-renowned natural wonder – Ha Long Bay. Not only does it boast unique landscapes, but it is also emerging as an ideal destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).
In 2024, Ha Long attracted over 3.5 million international visitors, accounting for around 20% of the international tourists to Vietnam, affirming its position as a perfect destination that combines work and leisure. With modern infrastructure, premium facilities, and professional services, Ha Long offers a first-class MICE experience amidst breathtaking nature.
The Blend of Nature, History, and Modernity
Ha Long, a coastal city, stands out for its perfect harmony between stunning nature, impressive history, and modern development. Located in a tropical monsoon climate with an average temperature of 23°C, Ha Long provides an ideal setting for events throughout the year. Ha Long Bay, recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site, is an alluring destination with thousands of limestone islands and fascinating caves such as Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave), Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), and more. Pristine beaches like Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha, along with various exploration and team-building activities, further enhance its appeal.
Not only is Ha Long Bay known for its beauty, but it also holds unique geological value. The karst limestone system, formed through the dissolution and erosion of seawater, creates bizarrely shaped islands and diverse stalactite caves. The bay is not only a perfect spot for sightseeing but also a valuable treasure for studying the evolution of the Earth.
In addition to its natural wonders, Ha Long boasts a rich cultural heritage, particularly the legacy of the coal mining industry, which is closely tied to the city’s formation and development. The city is also known for significant historical milestones, including the famous victory at the Battle of Bach Dang in 1288. Cultural destinations like Yen Tu Mountain and Cua Ong Temple add to the spiritual tourism value of the region. Today, Ha Long continues to develop rapidly with modern projects such as the Quang Ninh Museum, Sun World Ha Long Complex, and a well-developed transport and hotel system, establishing itself as an attractive tourist destination while preserving its distinctive industrial heritage.
World-Class Tourism Infrastructure
• Convenient Transportation Connections:
Van Don International Airport, located just 50 km from Ha Long, offers several international flights to destinations such as Shenzhen, Tokyo, and Seoul, as well as domestic flights to Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc. The Ha Noi – Ha Long expressway shortens travel time to just about two hours, ensuring convenience for MICE groups.
• Luxury Hotels and Resorts:
Ha Long boasts numerous upscale hotels and resorts like Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long, InterContinental Ha Long Bay Resort, Royal Lotus Hotel Ha Long, FLC Ha Long Bay Golf Club & Luxury Resort, and modern conference centers with large capacities. These venues are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and are ready to host large-scale events.
• Premium Cruises:
One standout feature in Ha Long is the opportunity to organize MICE events on luxury cruises. Cruises such as Aqua of The Seas, Essence Grand Cruise, Paradise Delight, and Ambassador Cruise Daily provide not only luxurious spaces but also offer stunning views over the bay, creating a unique experience for MICE guests.
Incentive Travel: Memorable Experiences in Ha Long
• Team Building on the Beach:
Ha Long is an ideal destination for team building programs thanks to its numerous beaches and spacious outdoor settings. For event organization, businesses can choose Bai Chay Beach – an expansive, flat beach conveniently located in the heart of Ha Long – or Tuan Chau Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters, smooth white sand, and scenic limestone islets along the coast. Exotic Vietnam offers unique team building activities such as inflatable obstacle challenges, raft paddling, and creative games designed to foster team bonding, enhance teamwork skills, and develop problem-solving abilities.
• Exploring Nature:
Cruise tours of Ha Long Bay, visiting famous caves, or trekking on Cat Ba Island will provide an unforgettable experience and an opportunity to immerse in the fascinating natural landscape. Cat Ba Island has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve due to its diverse and rich ecosystem. The Cat Ba Archipelago consists of 367 islands with pristine forests on limestone mountains and picturesque bays, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
• Cultural Journey:
Ha Long is not only known for its natural beauty but also serves as a gateway to the unique cultural values of the coastal people. Visitors can join tours to explore Vung Vieng and Cua Van fishing villages or experience seafood harvesting with local fishermen. Additionally, visitors can explore the Quang Ninh Museum, which preserves historical and cultural traces related to the coal mining industry. The museum not only highlights the history of coal mining but also reflects the progress of the industry, from its early beginnings to the present, emphasizing Ha Long’s crucial role in the economic development of the country.
• Unique Cuisine:
Ha Long is a true culinary paradise, offering an abundance of delicious dishes made from freshly caught seafood. The coastal waters of Quang Ninh boast a rich ecosystem with deep sea crevices, coral reefs, river mouths, and tidal channels – creating an ideal environment for the diverse growth and development of marine life. Seafood here is prepared using a wide variety of methods, including grilling, boiling, stir-frying, deep-frying, salt-curing, pickling in vinegar, and even marinating in rice wine. These techniques not only preserve the distinctive flavors of each ingredient but also enhance their natural freshness, resulting in dishes that are both flavorful and rich in local identity.
From fine-dining restaurants in luxurious resorts to humble eateries nestled in the heart of the city, and even cooking classes hosted by Exotic Vietnam – each experience offers travelers a chance to fully immerse themselves in the unique culinary culture of the region. Must-try specialties in Ha Long include: sticky rice with grilled squid sausage (xôi trắng chả mực), mantis shrimp vermicelli (bún bề bề), stir-fried peanut worms with garlic and celery (sá sùng xào cần tỏi), grilled clams (ngán nướng), and steamed geoducks (tu hài hấp), among many others.
• Relaxation and Leisure:
In addition to lively activities, Ha Long provides the perfect space for relaxation with premium spa services at resorts, allowing guests to rejuvenate after stressful days of work. Furthermore, its golf courses, set in idyllic landscapes, captivate the hearts of golf enthusiasts. The golf courses in Ha Long, such as FLC Ha Long Bay Golf Course and Tuần Châu Golf Course, are meticulously designed and constructed to international standards, providing both entertainment and a relaxing experience amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
Exotic Vietnam: A Trusted DMC Partner
To ensure the success of MICE events in Ha Long, choosing an experienced and reputable partner is a key factor. With many years of experience in organizing events and corporate travel, Exotic Vietnam is proud to offer flexible and creative MICE programs that meet all customer requirements.
Not only does Exotic Vietnam provide professional services, but it is also committed to protecting the environment and honoring local cultural values in all activities, contributing to the sustainable development of tourism in Ha Long.
