Private Taxi: Ha Long to Ninh Binh – Review, Tips & Advice

Planning a trip from the shimmering waters of Ha Long Bay to the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh? You’re in for a treat! Thing is, deciding how to that, well, could be tricky. While buses and trains exist, perhaps hiring a private taxi presents a surprisingly good blend of convenience and comfort for such a journey. Let’s discuss how my adventure unfolded when I opted for a private taxi service from Ha Long to Ninh Binh, with a look into Tam Coc and Trang An. I hope this review helps you determine if it’s a fit for your travel plans, and some advice on getting the best trip possible.

Why Choose a Private Taxi?

So, why pick a private taxi anyway? I mean, there are those buses, and trains, but they come with what feels like schedules chiseled in stone, so to speak, and you’re kind of stuck with making stops others require, and their timelines, too it’s almost. For me, a private taxi promised, too it’s almost, this relaxed sort of experience. Picture this: door-to-door service, where you get to call the shots – bathroom breaks whenever needed, photo stops at unexpectedly scenic spots, or maybe even a slight detour to that inviting coffee shop spotted along the route. It’s that extra touch of control, and just a little bit of luxury, which can be particularly enticing when moving between places as far apart, so to speak, as Ha Long and Ninh Binh. More or less, what I was really paying for was the flexibility.

Plus, if you happen to be, apparently, lugging around luggage, like I always seem to do, or perhaps traveling with your family, the idea of avoiding the scrum of public transportation is, typically, a comforting one. The convenience alone can, arguably, be worth the extra cost for many folks, you know?

Booking My Taxi: A Slight Adventure

Booking a taxi in Vietnam can feel, arguably, like its own mini-adventure! I did a bunch of comparison shopping between different agencies. Word of advice, you might want to book ahead, especially during peak tourist season. I did it a few days before I needed to leave. Looking back, that was, literally, a good idea because I probably wouldn’t have found a ride if I’d left it to the last minute. Now, there are different options; your hotel can set one up for you (maybe slightly more expensive, but the peace of mind may be worth it), or you can go onto one of the rideshare apps.

Another point, make sure you confirm the price upfront, and by doing that, check whether the agreed fee includes tolls. I’d suggest using a reliable booking platform or asking your hotel for advice. Also, confirm the type of vehicle you are booking to make sure that it will comfortably fit your group and luggage.

Also, you know, that slight language barrier? It’s real. But the magic of translation apps, or even just writing things down, really makes everything manageable. You know, I’ve found that a smile and a willingness to be patient can go a surprisingly far distance. Anyway, make certain that you receive a confirmation with all the details – driver’s name and number, vehicle plate number, and the agreed fare. And do read the small print – check cancellation policies, too.

The Ride: Ha Long’s Emerald Departure

My driver showed up on time. That really got our travel off to a terrific start! Ha Long Bay fading into the rearview mirror felt slightly like waving goodbye to an old friend. The initial part of the trip took us through, apparently, a few scenic roads. It was actually a pleasant reminder that Vietnam’s splendor isn’t, typically, confined to its most well-known tourist hotspots.

The car was air-conditioned, a welcome relief from the Vietnamese heat, and my driver, though not overly chatty, was, arguably, polite and focused. He had a local phone set up with a translation app that seemed very useful. We took a breather at a rest stop roughly halfway, stretching legs and grabbing some snacks. Such stops can, actually, provide little windows into everyday Vietnamese life, if you simply watch others!

Onward to Ninh Binh: Land of the Inland Ha Long Bay

Once you get nearer to Ninh Binh, thing is, that landscape goes through a complete, and stunning, sort of shift. Abruptly, you are driving through rice paddies. In place of the bay’s towering limestone karsts are a plethora of rocky outcrops. You start to realize, very quickly, why they sometimes refer to this as “Ha Long Bay on land.” This area is different from the sea. And then all of a sudden, we’re at Ninh Binh, safe and sound. From door to door, the entire experience was efficient, pleasant, and remarkably stress-free.

Exploring Tam Coc and Trang An: Don’t Miss Out!

So, you have got to see Tam Coc and Trang An! Seriously, these places are remarkable. Many travelers, seemingly, only focus on Ha Long Bay, but Ninh Binh has its very own natural charisma, and unique activities to consider, such as checking out temples and tombs, or enjoying local culinary traditions. I am confident you will agree that Ninh Binh really ought to be a feature on your Vietnamese itinerary.

Tam Coc, occasionally referred to as the “Three Caves,” delivers, actually, a memorable river experience through limestone karsts. These striking outcrops provide an awesome photo backdrop to view, whilst being sailed serenely downstream.

Then you’ve got Trang An, too it’s almost. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it also provides breathtaking boat trips. Its vistas are, arguably, equally as impressive as Ha Long Bay; they really are a joy to behold!

Cost Considerations: Is it Worth the Splurge?

Alright, so, the question everyone thinks about is, arguably, whether a private taxi is really worth that price tag? Yes, it does, in fact, hit your wallet harder than a bus or train. Thing is, when you weigh up factors such as convenience, flexibility, and door-to-door ease, it could just be a worthy investment, you know?

Consider splitting the fare if you’re, arguably, in a group – that’s a neat trick to drastically reduce that per-person cost, and therefore makes that whole option surprisingly affordable. For families, arguably, the hassle-free nature of a private taxi could even be considered priceless.

Factor in, too it’s almost, the time savings. A private taxi is more than likely to get you to Ninh Binh a bit faster, especially if you dislike those seemingly never-ending bus journeys. After all, time is of the essence when on vacation!

Final Verdict: A Thumbs Up!

Thing is, my private taxi adventure from Ha Long to Ninh Binh, featuring Tam Coc and Trang An, turned out pretty good, actually. Sure, it’s pricier, and in fact it cost me a pretty penny compared to cheaper choices. But for comfort, time, and peace, a private taxi seems terrific! If you, like your group, can swing it, do consider a private taxi – it may simply make your Vietnamese trip even more unforgettable. Bon voyage, very, very soon!