I didn’t see the name of Whisper Nature Bungalow & Resort anywhere, so initially I wasn’t sure if I was in the correct place. The host assured me I was but the signs only were at the restaurant of Long Phuong. The bungalow’s were located across and down the road from the restaurant / eating area which being alone, did make me feel a bit isolated, and there was a lack of lighting up the pathway in the dark. There was a large building construction going on next door which started up at 7am and finished around 6pm but with a break in the middle of the day. It was noisy on and off. Additionally, the radio mast at the top of the hike was undergoing repairs and so during the day, although it was about 100m away around the corner in the park, a motor could be heard ferrying buckets of cement up and down a cable for the construction. It was annoying at first but I did get used to it. The gardens were clearly very beautiful at the beginning / opening of this place but there was a lot of disused / unkempt areas around and about. However, after saying all this, I enjoyed the beauty of the ‘island’ of Viet Hai (it’s only reachable by boat, so they call it an island) it felt like I had entered Jurassic park and for the price, I was very grateful to have visited and stayed here. I encourage you to do the same but felt best to make guests aware beforehand, because forewarned is best and for the national park, it’s a must! I advise one to two nights; I booked three but was ready and felt I’d covered all I wanted after two and the hosts were fine with my change.

Viet Hai is situated an extra 50-minute boat ride away from the main boat crossing to Cat Ba. I didn’t know / realise this and therefore, was surprised when I had to pay an extra £21 to complete my 6.5hr journey to reach my accommodation. I was also hesitant. But it was fine. Thankfully, the return journey via locals ferry was only £2.80 and both journeys were viewing the stunning scenery all the way. I felt I didn’t need to do a Ha Long Bay cruise after my arrival trip! The rooms are pure rustic but sufficient enough with a mosquito net, very much needed, as lots of little slits and holes in the window shutters and above and below the door. There was A/C and a fan. No fridge or kettle. The bed was very comfortable and the pillows were good with clean white sheets and two fresh clean towels. There were sachets of wash, toothbrushes, comb etc. The shower was in an awkward spot so I had to hold it over me to use and of course, the floor was the shower tray but took a while to dry out The location was great as it was away from the main village and on the doorstep of the national park - well worth the trek to the cave & and the old almost abandoned village and the hike up to the highest karst on the island to enjoy a superb view over Ha long Bay from above. A must do! The free bicycles all over the village were great with baskets in the front to stow your stuff. It’s very quiet and peaceful apart from when visitor trips arrive but never too busy.

Stayed in August 2025

Friendly hosts, very helpful with planning and logistics. Amazing breakfast and dinner. Clean and comfortable rooms.

Stayed in July 2025

I think one of the best locations to stay in Viet Hai as it is at the upper end of the village, so you you are a bit out of the hustling day-tourists which luckily all leave at 6pm. Then you are really at peace there and can enjoy the village and the valley quietly. The cabins are simple but comfortable. The owner really cares and helped us organizing our canoeing trip to the bay and finally our way back to Ben Bo.

Stayed in April 2025

An absolutely wonderful homestay in a beautiful village! Getting to the village and back from the main pier is easy; you only have to ask for help. Once you get to the pier near Viet Hai, you can either take a bicycle to the village (someone will take your luggage), or you can hire an electric car very easily for a reasonable price. The owners were incredibly kind to me and made sure I had an amazing time and helped me make every arrangement. Fortunately, they spoke English quite well so we could communicate. They gave me advice on hiking and nice things to do around the village. Bikes were free; you can take one and go anywhere you like on the island. Lots of beautiful hikes, starting right at the doorstep. I was treated to amazing meals, with so many exotic and delicious choices! You can try a free fish massage! The family was so incredibly warm and kind to me during my stay of three nights; I was never bored for a moment. Truly a wonderful experience.

Stayed in January 2025

Very friendly and helpful host, beautiful area

Stayed in November 2024

Not the nicest bathrooms.

Excellent location in beautiful green surroundings, great for hiking and biking, and super helpful personnel

Stayed in March 2024

charming property with stunning views.

Stayed in March 2023

Some refreshment of bathroom door is needed

Bungalows are located in the farthest part of the village, silent and very close to National Park entrance – good shoes are absolutely necessary. Amazing view with mountains from one side and fields on another. Very good food, both breakfast and dinners with different Vietnamese meals. Doan- our host help us with island trips planning and transfer to the next destination. Highly recommended for nature fans ready to accept more basic condition of the room - like scout camp – with excellent opportunity to reset and refresh minds by staying close to the nature with friendly host support.

Stayed in November 2022

Rude staff. Dismal cooking. Pushy woman in charge.

not much

Stayed in December 2024

There are no comments available for this review

Stayed in August 2023

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Stayed in January 2023

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Stayed in January 2023