Coco Bay, Hon Son & Lai Son: Vietnam's Hidden Paradise Awaits!
Coco Bay, Hon Son & Lai Son: Paradise Found… With a Few Hiccups (My Honesty Hour!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the (Vietnamese) tea on Coco Bay, Hon Son & Lai Son. This isn't your sanitized travel brochure; this is the REAL DEAL. Prepare for some rambling, some gushing, some griping, and hopefully, some genuine insight. Because, let's be honest, perfect doesn’t exist, and the most memorable trips are the ones with a little bit of delicious chaos baked in.
Accessibility: Getting There is Half the Battle (and Sometimes a Pain)
First things first: getting to these islands is an adventure in itself. Accessibility is definitely a mixed bag. The islands themselves are rugged, and the infrastructure is… well, let's call it "developing." Finding a fully wheelchair accessible path? Good luck. More like, "bring your hiking boots and a sense of adventure." Honestly, this isn't the spot for anyone needing flawless mobility. Public transport isn't built for it.
Now, airport transfers are available, which is a huge plus. And car park [free of charge]? Score! Car park [on-site] too. So, if you're driving (and able to navigate the roads) you're golden. But the journey from the mainland? Expect ferries, potential seasickness, and a general feeling of "are we there yet?" (Spoiler: Yes, eventually.)
On-site Accessible Restaurants/Lounges: Hmm… This requires more investigation, as I couldn't definitively spot anything. Facilities for disabled guests, listed as a general convenience, means it could exist, but check before you go and get your hopes up.
Internet: Wi-Fi Woes and the Sweet Taste of Escape (or Lack Thereof)
Right, let's talk internet. Internet access is present, but the reliability is about as consistent as my ability to make friends in a room full of puppies. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!? Yes, technically. But strong wifi? Possibly not. Think of it as a digital whisper rather than a roar. Internet [LAN]? Forget about it. This isn't the place to rely on virtual meetings. Embrace the digital detox, people. You might even learn something. Wi-Fi in public areas? Better, but still spotty. You have been warned.
Cleanliness and Safety: A Striving Commitment
Okay, let's move on to a serious note: Cleanliness and safety. This is where Coco Bay, Hon Son & Lai Son really shone. They seemed to be taking COVID precautions seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and rooms sanitized between stays were all apparent. I especially appreciated the professional-grade sanitizing services (peace of mind, right?) and staff trained in safety protocol. Hand sanitizer was everywhere! Individually-wrapped food options were a nice touch. Safe dining setup seemed to be standard.
Did I see it ALL the time? No. But the effort was clearly there. The doctor/nurse on call felt reassuring, and the first aid kit was a nice touch. And yeah, the room sanitization opt-out available option felt like a bit of a weird choice to me, but it's nice they are giving you options.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Feast for the Senses (and Sometimes, Patience)
The food! Oh, the food! This is where the islands really came alive.
The restaurants were plentiful. You had your options. A la carte in restaurant? Yes! Asian cuisine in restaurant? Absolutely. Western cuisine in restaurant? A sprinkle of that too, mixed in.
Breakfast [buffet]? Often, yes, but variations existed. Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, you name it they have a version of it. Breakfast takeaway service? Great for those wanting to explore. The coffee/tea in restaurant was often decent, but the real treat? Freshly squeezed juices you can get in several places. The poolside bar was a must, especially at sunset. Happy hour was a welcome addition.
Now, the real highlight was the local cuisine. Fresh seafood grilled on the beach… chef's kiss. Be prepared for a few bumps, though – maybe a slightly slow service here and there? The pace of life is different here, so relax and enjoy.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: Island Bliss (and the Occasional Mosquito)
This is where the magic of these islands truly unfolds. Things to do are abundant.
- The swimming pool [outdoor] was a glorious, shimmering oasis.
- Swimming pool overall, great, and relaxing.
- Massage was another definite highlight.
- The Spa facilities were on point, and the Spa/sauna combination was divine.
- Also the sauna in particular was heaven.
- You'll find fitness center, and a gym/fitness if that's important to you - but honestly, walking around these islands is your workout.
- The Foot bath and Body scrub were a great experience.
- As for steamroom, not available.
- The Pool with view was an awesome experience.
Ways to relax are easily achieved. The beach is calling, the sun is baking, and a hammock is beckoning. Just try to not get too toasted, though, these islands are a blast, but take care to protect them from the sun.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things (and the Sometimes-Missing Ones)
Okay, let's talk about the practicalities. They have concierge services, and a daily housekeeping. Doorman? I'm not sure I saw one - but front desk [24-hour]! Good.
Air conditioning in public area was a lifesaver. Air conditioning in every room? Absolutely – phew!
The laundry service was reliable. You could get dry cleaning done here too.
Cash withdrawal was available, but I’d recommend stocking up on dong as things don’t always accept card. Currency exchange? Yes, but maybe not the best rates. Convenience store? There, usually.
Meeting/banquet facilities, meetings, seminars, and even audio-visual equipment for special events are possibilities, though I imagine these are on the simpler side. Wi-Fi for special events – well, refer back to the internet situation…
For the Kids: Family Friendly? Mostly!
Family/child friendly is definitely the vibe here! The islands are generally safe, and the pace of life lends itself to relaxed family time. Babysitting service? Possibly, ask at the front desk. Kids meal? Seems like something can be arranged. Kids facilities? Might be limited, but the islands' natural playground is the real attraction.
Available in all rooms: A Mixed Bag of Essentials and Extras
The room decorations were pretty. Some rooms had a terrace. Non-smoking rooms are common, but remember to bring your own matches.
Additional toilet? Not typically, but the private bathroom was clean and functional. The towels were clean. Bathrobes? Sometimes luxurious, sometimes a bit thin.
Air conditioning was a must. Alarm clock? Yes. Bathtub, bathtub and Shower? Yep. Blackout curtains? Hooray for sleeping in if you can. Carpeting? Not always, sometimes tiled floors. Closet? Provided in the room. Coffee/tea maker, which is a must, and you have complimentary tea. Daily housekeeping was great, they would never leave you in a mess. Desk? Most rooms had them. Extra long bed? Sometimes available. Free bottled water? Yes, a lifesaver. Hair dryer, yes. High floor? Depends on your room location. In-room safe box? Check. Interconnecting room(s) available? In some cases. Internet access – LAN, the elusive dream. Internet access – wireless, it exists. Ironing facilities? Provided. Laptop workspace? In most. Linens? Clean and changed regularly. Mini bar? Usually stocked. Mirror? Duh. On-demand movies? Sometimes. Reading light? A must. Refrigerator? Yes. Satellite/cable channels? Some. Scale? Not always. Seating area? Usually. Separate shower/bathtub? Sometimes. Shower, yes. Slippers, a great comfort. Smoke detector? Always. Socket near the bed? Yes. Sofa? Sometimes. Soundproofing? Maybe not 100%, the islands are a bit noisy. Telephone? Yes. Toiletries? Provided. Umbrella? Helpful. Visual alarm? Yes. Wake-up service? Available. **Wi-Fi [free
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Okay, buckle up buttercups, because here's the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the slightly-sunburnt truth about my messy, glorious, and completely unofficial itinerary for Coco Bay, Hon Son, and Lai Son in Vietnam. Forget those pristine travel brochures – this is the REAL deal.
Day 1: Arrival, Chaos, and the Questionable Charm of Coco Bay (and a slight panic)
- Morning (or what passes for it after a long, cramped flight): Land in Rach Gia. Okay, first hurdle: customs. I'm notoriously terrible with documents. Managed to fill out the visa form using a pen that decided to explode ink ALL over my pristine (okay, slightly wrinkled) white shirt. Brilliant. After the (thankfully successful) visa application, We’re off to Coco Bay, by boat.
- Afternoon: Arrival at Coco Bay! Oh. My. Gawd. The pictures online are… enhanced. The reality is a little… rough around the edges. Think idyllic beach meets slightly overzealous construction site. The vibe? Undeniably… developing. My room (a "luxury bungalow," they claimed) smelled faintly of damp and desperation. But, hey, the ocean view was pretty spectacular, I will say that. I guess it’s the price you pay for the “off the beaten path” deal.
- Early Evening: The Food Odyssey (and a near-disaster): Exploring the “dining options.” Found a beachside restaurant that promised fresh seafood. Ordered grilled squid, a bold move. About a second after I bit into it, I felt something… move. Turns out, I had just accidentally eaten a baby squid. A truly horrific experience, and I’m still not over it. I think I'll stick to rice and maybe a tiny spoon of chili (maybe).
- Night: The Sunset and the Mosquitoes: The sunset was beautiful, I will give it that. But it was short-lived. Then came the mosquitoes, these little blood-sucking vampires. I swear they were the size of Pterodactyls, and I’m pretty sure they organized raids on my exposed ankles. I’m now covered in itchy red welts. My fault for going out without a sufficient amount of bug spray. This trip would be the ultimate test of my mental resilience.
Day 2: Hon Son Island - A Glimpse of Paradise (and Some Unexpected Ups and Downs)
- Morning: The Ferry to Hon Son. Okay, the boat was a bit sketchy. The engine sputtered, the life jackets looked like they hadn’t been used since the Vietnam War, and a whole group of giggling kids seemed to be plotting to push each other overboard. Praying to the sea gods that my life is spared. We arrive on Hon Son, and it turns out it is paradise. Verdant green hills, turquoise water, and an overall sense of serenity.
- Afternoon: Motorcycle Mayhem (and Amazing Beauty): Rented a motorbike. I’m not a confident driver, but hey, when in Vietnam, right? I spent a good hour or so just trying to get out of town, which included stalling the engine about a dozen times and nearly running over a flock of chickens. But eventually, I got the hang of it (sort of) and the views… OMG. The coast road, the hidden beaches, the rice paddies… it was breathtaking. I literally had tears in my eyes. The emotional rollercoaster continues!
- Late Afternoon: Local Encounters: Stopped at a local cafe for some strong Vietnamese coffee. The owner (a woman named Mai) didn't speak much English, but she was just radiant. We communicated mostly through smiles and hand gestures. This is when it hits you, this is what travel is all about. She gave me a huge pile of fresh mango, and I left feeling like I’d made a friend. My heart feels so full.
- Evening: Dinner Disaster and Stargazing: Found a restaurant with plastic chairs overlooking the ocean. The food was… interesting. Think incredibly spicy fish and something that resembled a small, furry animal (I didn’t ask). I couldn’t eat much, and my stomach is starting to rumble. But, oh my god. The stars! Completely unpolluted by city lights. I've been laying on the beach staring up, and seeing the stars. The feeling of being so far away from the familiar is incredible.
Day 3: Lai Son Island - The Hidden Gem (and a Personal Crisis of Confidence)
- Morning: The Ferry to Lai Son: Another ferry. Another opportunity for potential sea sickness (and another near-death experience) but I’m getting used to it. Lai Son is smaller, quieter, even more untouched. A slower pace of life.
- Afternoon: Exploring the Island (and the nagging feeling of being a fraud): More motorbike adventures (slightly less catastrophic this time). Visited the beaches, and just felt so serene. I got the best feeling when I started to feel I wasn't just a tourist, but learning what it means to live here. And for the first time, I let myself feel like I was finally succeeding.
- Evening: Return to Hon Son (and the realization that I’m deeply, irrevocably, in love with this place): Taking the ferry back to Hon Son. This time, the journey was smoother, the sky was even more beautiful, and I was filled with such joy. I don’t want to leave Vietnam ever.
- Night: Goodbye Dinner and a Promise: One last dinner on Hon Son. Simple, delicious, and savored every moment. I know I will come back. I'm already planning the next trip.
Day 4: Departure (and a Sad Farewell)
- Morning: Last Sunrise: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the ocean. So beautiful.
- Afternoon: Boat back to Rach Gia, flight home:
- Evening: Home: So much thinking.
Important Notes (and things I wished I’d known before I went):
- Bargain relentlessly: Seriously. Everything is negotiable.
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases: It goes a long way. Even a simple "Xin chào" (hello) and "Cảm ơn" (thank you) will get you far.
- Embrace the mess: Things won’t always go to plan. That’s part of the fun (and the heartbreak.)
- Pack bug spray. Lots of it. Seriously, you'll thank me.
- Be open to new experiences: Say yes to everything, even if you're scared.
- Take time to breathe: The best memories are the ones where you just are.
This trip wasn’t perfect. It was chaotic. It was exhausting. And it was, without a doubt, the best thing I’ve ever done. I’m still getting over the baby squid incident, but the beauty, the warmth of the people, and the incredible landscape… it’s all worth it. Now if you need me, I’ll be busy calculating how fast I can save up enough money to go back.
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Coco Bay, Hon Son & Lai Son: The Unfiltered Truth (and a Whole Lot of Sunshine!)
Okay, I've seen the photos. Tropical beaches, turquoise water... Is Coco Bay, Hon Son & Lai Son *really* paradise?
How do I *get* to these hidden gems? My brain hurts just thinking about it.
Tell me about the islands themselves! Which one should I pick? (Help!)
- Coco Bay: This is the "beach bum central" of the area. It's got bungalows right on the sand, it’s laid-back, and the water is the kind you just want to *live* in. Think hammocks, sunsets, lazy days. It’s perfect if you want to unplug and forget what day it is (which, let's be honest, we all need sometimes). My one regret? Not spending *enough* time here. Just glorious.
- Hon Son: This is the adventurous soul's haven. Mountains to hike, hidden waterfalls, and local life aplenty. It's got a more "off the beaten track" vibe. I rented a motorbike and nearly killed myself navigating the winding, unpaved roads. But the views?! Worth the near-death experience, I swear. Just be careful of the potholes. And the chickens. And the… well, just expect the unexpected.
- Lai Son: I didn’t actually *get* to Lai Son. And now I'm starting to regret it. It's supposed to be a bit more developed than Hon Son but still retains a lot of that island charm. Next time, Lai Son. Next time, I swear! I already imagine the meals there are the best.
Okay, food. I live for food. What's the grub situation?
What can I *do* other than lie on the beach (although that sounds pretty good)?
- Beaches, of course! Swim, sunbathe, read a book, build a sandcastle (I may or may not have done this… several times.).
- Snorkelling and diving: The water is crystal clear! You'll see all sorts of colourful fish and coral. Bring your own gear or rent some.
- Hiking (Hon Son): Climb to the top of a mountain for insane views. Just wear sturdy shoes. Seriously.
- Motorbike adventures (Hon Son): Rent a scooter and zip around the island. Just... be cautious. (See above re: near-death experiences).
- Sunset watching: Find a bar, grab a drink, and lose yourself in the colours of the sky. Seriously, the sunsets are *unreal*.
- Eat, eat, eat! And explore the local markets, try to order something without knowing what it is. Enjoy the journey!
Is it safe? Any safety concerns I should be aware of?
What about the locals? Are they friendly?
