The U.S. travel magazine Condé Nast Traveller announced its "2026 Seven Wonders of Southeast Asia," and Bai Tu Long Bay, located near northern Vietnam'sHanoiwas chosen for third place. It's a hidden-gem scenic spot spreading on the eastern side of Ha Long Bay, where limestone rock formations and stalactite caves float in a quiet bay. Distinct from crowded Ha Long Bay, it's now drawing attention from travelers seeking a genuine off-the-beaten-path experience.
News overview
The full list of the "2026 Seven Wonders of Southeast Asia" chosen by Condé Nast Traveller is as follows. First is Indonesia's Raja Ampat Islands, second is Thailand's Doi Inthanon National Park, andthird place shines on Vietnam's Bai Tu Long Bay. It continues with fourth Laos's Bolaven Plateau, fifth Malaysia's George Town, sixth Cambodia's Phnom Kulen National Park, and seventh the Philippines' Batanes Province.
Bai Tu Long Bay is a bay in Quang Ninh Province located northeast of Ha Long Bay. While having scenery where limestone rock formations, stalactite caves, and fishing villages likewise float, compared with Ha Long Bay it has fewer tourists, featuring a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. Condé Nast Traveller highly rated the point that "you can tour it not by large cruise ships but by boutique cruises or small boats."
Active experiences are plentiful too, such as kayaking and swimming in the emerald-green sea, eco-tours of Bai Tu Long National Park, and visits to pearl farms. On a multi-day itinerary touring Quan Lan Island, Minh Chau Island, Phat Co Island, and others, you can deeply touch the local fishing-village culture.
Vietnamese readers' reactions
"Ha Long Bay has too many boats, ruining the scenery. Bai Tu Long Bay is like another world, quiet and the best." (Woman in her 30s, Hanoi resident)
"I'm truly happy such a wonderful place has been recognized by the world. As a local, I'm proud!" (Man in his 40s, Quang Ninh Province)
"Because it's a boutique cruise, you can see a sky full of stars at night, and there's no noise from other boats. It was the best experience." (Couple in their 20s)
"I worry it'll get crowded if foreigners find out about it... but it's a happy thing to be recognized." (Woman in her 50s)
"Ha Long Bay has increasing regulations, but at Bai Tu Long Bay you can still explore freely." (Local travel guide)
Impact and key points for Japanese tourists
Bai Tu Long Bay's biggest appeal is that "there are few people." Ha Long Bay is highly popular as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and many tourists visit during travel season, but Bai Tu Long Bay still retains a hidden-gem feel. Access is about 3 to 3.5 hours by car from Hanoi. A day trip is possible, but a one-night, two-day to two-night, three-day overnight-cruise tour is especially recommended.
Since bookings are expected to increase going forward due to selection by Condé Nast Traveller, early planning is key. Locally,SIM cardpreparation ofCurrency exchangechecking information on in advance makes the trip go smoothly.
Reference:Bai Tu Long Bay among 7 Wonders of Southeast Asia for 2026: Condé Nast Traveller (VietnamPlus)
