Once a destination for hurried day-trippers from Hanoi, Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay is entering a new era—one where travelers can linger, unwind, and fully immerse themselves in its mythic beauty. With the recent opening of the InterContinental Halong Bay Resort, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is finally receiving the luxury treatment it so richly deserves.

Located in Quang Ninh Province in northern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay has long captivated visitors with its surreal seascape—over 1,600 limestone karsts and islets rising sharply from emerald waters. These otherworldly formations are steeped in local legend: it’s said that a celestial dragon descended from the heavens to help the Vietnamese defend their land, and upon completing its mission, chose to rest eternally in the bay. The jagged outcroppings are believed to be the dragon’s spine, frozen in time beneath the water’s surface.

Despite its status as one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations and a dual UNESCO World Heritage site for both natural beauty and geological significance, Ha Long Bay has, until now, lacked the kind of upscale accommodations that would encourage extended stays.

That has changed dramatically with the arrival of the InterContinental Halong Bay Resort, a gleaming new property from IHG that’s reimagining what it means to vacation here.

Perched right on the shoreline, the resort is thoughtfully designed to maximize its breathtaking surroundings. Every one of its guest rooms—ranging from the elegantly appointed Classic Rooms to the opulent Halong Bay Suites—offers sweeping ocean views. Even from the comfort of your bed, you’re treated to vistas that resemble an ink wash painting come to life. During my stay, I booked a Classic Room, and each morning began with the press of a bedside button to reveal Ha Long Bay in all its misty majesty. The serenity and drama of the scene was enough to make me pause and simply take it all in.

Pricing for Classic Rooms starts at around $145 per night on weekdays, making this stay surprisingly accessible—even considering current exchange rates. In a world where upscale hotels are increasingly expensive, the value offered here is striking, especially when paired with a setting as extraordinary as Ha Long Bay.

Even the standard room category impresses with its generous size: 53 square meters (around 570 square feet), noticeably more spacious than many city hotels in the same category. The layout includes a walk-in closet, a spacious bathroom with a soaking tub, and sliding doors that allow guests to enjoy an ocean view even while bathing. Whether you’re a couple on a romantic getaway or a family traveling with a child, the space feels indulgently comfortable.

For those who prefer to stay put and soak up the resort experience, the InterContinental doesn’t disappoint. Currently, guests can dine at Marina Kitchen, the resort’s all-day dining venue, Del Mar, a breezy poolside bar, and La Baguette, a sophisticated French fine-dining restaurant. And there’s more to come: by December, two new venues—Yulong Mansionfor elevated Chinese cuisine and Roku, a rooftop Japanese restaurant with panoramic views—are set to open.

During my five-day stay, I dined exclusively within the resort, rotating between Marina Kitchen, La Baguette, and Del Mar. The culinary standard consistently impressed. Breakfast buffets offered local favorites like pho, banh mi, and bun cha, alongside international fare. One evening at La Baguette, I was served a steak that rivaled those I’ve enjoyed at Michelin-starred restaurants.

For those seeking an even more elevated experience, Club InterContinental offers one of the most luxurious lounge programs in the region. Guests with access—either through elite IHG status or an upgraded room category—enjoy all-day dining, evening cocktails, and even a private indoor heated pool with unparalleled views from the 6th floor.

One standout? The pho served at the Club Lounge during breakfast was arguably the best I’ve tasted in Vietnam, outshining bowls from some of Hanoi’s most famous spots. And the fresh coconuts, available all day and typically priced at $10 elsewhere in the resort, were served limitlessly—an indulgence that quickly became a daily ritual.

However, for those without lounge access, an additional $85++ per person, per night is required. For two people, the fee exceeds the base room rate, making it a decision that depends on your travel style. Do you invest in the Club Lounge’s tranquility and convenience, or explore local excursions and allocate your budget toward immersive experiences and destination dining?

Personally, I opted for the latter. Given Ha Long Bay’s unique cultural and geological story, I found greater value in exploring its legendary sites—like a dinner cruise through Dragon Cave, where local music and myths come alive beneath a cathedral of limestone.

Still, whether you spend your days in the lounge or out among the islands, the InterContinental Halong Bay Resort makes one thing clear: Ha Long Bay is no longer just a detour—it’s a destination in its own right. Here, travelers can finally slow down, breathe deeply, and experience the bay with the reverence it commands. If you’re seeking a new pinnacle in your Vietnam travels, let the InterContinental Halong Bay be your gateway. With its serene waters, ancient legends, and world-class amenities, this resort doesn’t just offer a stay—it offers a moment of stillness, beauty, and deep connection that lingers long after you’ve returned home.