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What To Buy In Halong? Best Souvenirs To Bring Back From Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage gem, captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Beyond its natural wonders, Halong is also an ideal place to find unique souvenirs and authentic gifts. If you're wondering what to buy or where to go shopping in Halong, this article is for you. With AUTOUR ASIA, Travel agency in Hanoi Vietnam, discover the best places and ideas to bring a piece of Halong back home.

I. What to buy in Halong? Halong souvenir ideas

1. Dried Squid and Other Seafood

When shopping in Halong, dried seafood products are must-buys, as they are an integral part of the local culinary culture. With its majestic bay and biodiversity-rich waters, Halong offers exceptional-quality seafood. Among the most popular Halong souvenirs is dried squid, a traditional product that embodies the essence of the sea. Slightly sweet and salty, it’s a delight for anyone wanting to take home the flavors of the ocean.

Shopping in Halong, in addition to dried squid, other dried seafood like shrimp, fish, and shellfish make excellent Halong gifts for your loved ones. These products are not only delicious but also practical, as they have a long shelf life while retaining Halong’s authentic flavors. Bringing a pack of these marine treasures is a warm and simple way to share the beauty of the bay with those you care about.

2. Pearls and Pearl Jewelry

Another iconic Halong souvenir you shouldn’t miss when shopping in Halong is pearls. Halong is one of Vietnam’s most renowned regions for pearl farming. Local pearl farms produce pearls of exceptional beauty and quality. Often crafted into finely designed jewelry, these pearls are a precious reminder of Halong's history and craftsmanship.

What to buy in Halong? Whether it’s a pair of delicate earrings, a refined necklace, or an elegant bracelet, each piece of pearl jewelry is unique, carrying the luster and purity of pearls from the depths of Halong Bay. Gifting pearl jewelry from Halong is much more than just a purchase, it’s a gesture of elegance, prestige, and natural beauty. A pearl souvenir from Halong is a meaningful and enduring gift for someone special.

3. Handcrafted Items

Halong, Vietnam, is a treasure trove of local crafts, with each piece showcasing the meticulous and passionate work of Vietnamese artisans. Shopping in Halong also means discovering the local craftsmanship, where every item tells a story. Artisans in the region use natural materials like wood, bamboo, and seashells to create unique pieces such as sculptures, decorative boxes, and shell lamps.

If you’re looking for a Halong gift, these handcrafted items are perfect for adding an authentic touch to your home decor or for offering an original present. They are not only visually appealing but also rich in culture and expertise. Buying a handmade item in Halong means taking home a piece of Vietnam's soul.

II. Where to go shopping in Halong?

1. Halong Market 2

• Address: 34 Le Lai, Tran Hung Dao, Ha Long, Quang Ninh, Vietnam

  https://maps.app.goo.gl/BR5xQPrTpbgemczE9

• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily

Halong Market 2 is an excellent place for shopping in Halong. Although smaller than Halong Market 1, this market offers a wide range of products, from clothing and household items to local souvenirs. Inside, the market is divided into two floors, where you can find high-quality items, making it perfect for anyone looking for a Halong souvenir.

Outside the market, you'll find stalls specializing in fresh seafood and dried products, such as dried squid and dried fish, ideal to take home or give as gifts. Halong Market 2 is a must-visit spot to immerse yourself in the local culture and buy typical Halong Bay souvenirs.

Customer Review from a 2-day Halong Bay Cruise of AUTOUR ASIA:

After a 2-day cruise on the Paradise Elegance, we visited Halong Market 2 to explore the local culture and shop for Halong souvenirs. We learned a lot about fresh and dried seafood. The market is very unique and authentic.

2. Legend Pearl

• Address: Dai Yen, Ha Long, Quang Ninh, Vietnam

  https://maps.app.goo.gl/2JjV1nJT3jvwaAhMv8

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily

If you're shopping in Halong, Legend Pearl is a must-visit destination, especially for those seeking refined Halong souvenirs. This shopping center specializes in pearl cultivation, offering visitors a unique experience. You can learn about the fascinating process of pearl farming, from their formation to their transformation into exquisite jewelry.

In addition to discovering the pearl cultivation process, Legend Pearl offers a wide selection of pearl jewelry, ranging from delicate necklaces to elegant bracelets. If you’re looking for a Halong souvenir, a pearl jewelry piece from Legend Pearl is a perfect choice. These creations, symbolizing elegance and luxury, make for an unforgettable gift or a treasured Halong souvenir.

Customer review on TripAdvisor:

We stopped here to learn more about cultured pearls. Inside, there’s a wide range of pearls in various colors. Some beautiful designs are available at almost reasonable prices. If you're good at bargaining, you can do even better. I found six perfect necklaces for my wife and daughter. Very satisfied with the quality and craftsmanship. Highly recommended!

3. Bai Chay Shopping Center

• Address: Zone 2B Vuon Dao, Bai Chay, Ha Long, Quang Ninh, Vietnam

  https://maps.app.goo.gl/zhv4PPzZoTwCNu4B8

• Opening Hours: 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily

Where to go shopping in Halong? Situated on Vuon Dao Street in the Bai Chay district, Bai Chay Shopping Center is a large-scale commercial area offering a wide range of products at affordable prices. Whether you're looking for clothing, electronics, or typical souvenirs, this center has everything you need during your trip in Halong.

For Halong souvenirs, the shopping center offers many local items, from handcrafted products to culinary specialties. It's the perfect place to find unique keepsakes while enjoying a pleasant shopping experience in a modern, welcoming setting.

4. Weekly market in Halong

• Address: Halong Hotel Zone

• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM every Tuesday

The weekly market in Halong is a unique place for shopping in Halong, especially for seafood lovers. Held every Tuesday, from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM, this market offers a wide variety of fresh seafood at affordable prices. It’s perfect for those who want to taste local specialties or bring fresh products home. You’ll find fish, shrimp, crabs, and other ocean delicacies, all sold at reasonable prices. This lively market is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying a unique shopping experience.

What to do in Halong Bay? You can enjoy a luxury cruise amidst the spectacular landscapes of Halong Bay. You can also explore various cruises in Halong Bay to fully experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After spending your days exploring, you can go shopping in Halong to find unique souvenirs and savor fresh seafood at renowned local restaurants.

III. What souvenirs from Halong can be taken on a flight?

When traveling by plane from Halong, you can bring several typical souvenirs of Halong, provided you follow your destination country's customs regulations. Here are some popular items you can take without hassle:

• Pearls and pearl jewelry: Halong's pearls are renowned and make excellent gifts. You can choose necklaces, bracelets, or earrings, which are lightweight and easy to carry.

• Dried seafood: Items like dried squid and dried fish are often allowed in checked luggage, but it’s essential to check the rules for importing food products into your country.

• Handicrafts: Handmade Halong souvenirs such as wooden sculptures, decorative bamboo, or seashell items are perfect for air travel, as they are lightweight and compact.

• Tea and spices: Local tea and Vietnamese spices, like pepper or ginger, are generally permitted and travel well.

Don’t forget to check specific airline regulations about transporting certain items, especially food or liquids, to ensure a hassle-free journey.

IV. Tips for going shopping in Halong

Here are some useful tips for shopping in Halong to make the most of your experience:

• Be prepared to bargain: At local markets like Halong market or weekly market, haggling is common. Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, especially for handicrafts or souvenirs. It can be an enjoyable way to get great deals and connect with the local culture.

• Opt for authentic souvenirs: When looking for Halong gifts, choose local items such as pearls, dried seafood, handcrafted wooden or seashell decorations, or traditional clothing. These Halong souvenirs are more genuine and reflect the local culture.

• Check the product quality: For items like dried seafood or food products, ensure they are properly packaged to avoid spoilage during transport. Take time to inspect the craftsmanship of pearl jewelry or handmade objects.

• Carry cash: While more shops now accept cards, many markets and small stalls in Halong are cash-only. It's wise to have cash on hand.

• Prepare for transporting your purchases: If you plan to buy bulky or fragile items like pearl ornaments or sculptures, make sure to pack them securely to prevent damage during your journey.

• Check opening hours: Local markets often have specific operating hours. For instance, the weekly market is only open on Tuesday mornings. Plan ahead to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to shop.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a delightful Halong shopping experience and bring home meaningful Halong souvenirs to cherish or share with loved ones.

What to buy in Halong? In conclusion, Halong offers a unique shopping experience where you can find authentic Halong souvenirs and traditional gifts that reflect the beauty and culture of the region. From precious pearls to dried seafood and handmade crafts, you're sure to discover something special to bring home. To fully experience the beauty of Halong Bay and other destinations in Vietnam, AUTOUR ASIA, local travel agency in Vietnam, offers tailor-made tours. Make the most of your trip to Vietnam and take back memorable souvenirs!