Vietnam tours are an excellent way to get out and experience a culture that is far removed from one's own. Though the natural landmarks, cultural sights and charming locals are a great way to get to know these new surroundings, the best way to experience this new and different locale is through the delectable food that can be found throughout the country. Though it may not have the reputation of other culinary destinations, the city of Halong Bay is home to a wealth of delicious eateries that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in the group.
Cultural treats
While one can easily find some of the more traditional Vietnamese dishes on a foodie's adventure through Halong Bay, vacationers would be remiss not to sample some of the regional delicacies that have put the city on the map.
One of the area's key dishes is steamed Tu Hai, a rare and expensive shellfish that is typically served as part of a soup or salad. Also known as snail sprout, this unique fish is sweet and cool, with a hint of the spice that many East Asian cuisines are known for. As this item is fairly rare, it may not be served at every restaurant – but if one is fortunate enough to find the delicacy on a menu, they could be pleasantly surprised by this local treat.
Don't forget to save room for dessert on your Vietnamese tour, as Halong Bay is also celebrated for its delectable Gat Gu cake. Unlike western pastries, Gat Gu is a steamed rice pancake made from rice flour that has a uniquely sweet taste that is quite fragrant when compared to more traditional desserts. The cake's name literally translates to "nodding repeatedly," so be sure to nod three times when presented with the Gat Gu, so as not to offend any of the locals.
