• Janette and JohnExploring Vietnam and CambodiaJanette and John
    Miles and miles of rice fields on the way to Halong.
    Our picture and the lady who made it.Going out on the tender to our cruise ship.Our cabin for the cruise.The tender ferrying people back to the ship.

    Hanoi to Halong Bay.

    February 25, Gulf of Tonkin ⋅ 🌧 15 °C

    Had a three hour drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay today.

     On the way we had a pit stop to use the happy room at Star Gems Vietnam. This is a combination workshop and retail outlet. The people working there are all handicapped. Star Gems gives them employment and all the benefits and self esteem that go with that.

     The merchandise is absolutely stunning. There are pictures embroidered in a variety of materials. Visitors can watch the artists at work. At the gem cutting area we watched star gems being cut, polished and set.

     We bought a picture which to us 'says Vietnam' and were able to meet the lady who made it. It is made with silk embroidery and probably took a month to make. She will receive 65% of the sale price.

     Next, on to Halong for our overnight on Halong Bay.    Read more