The bay in the northern province of Quang Ninh, together with Cambodia's Angkor Wat temple complex, are the only two Southeast Asian representatives to break into the list.

“The best way to experience this mist-shrouded landscape is to board a junk and sail through the outstanding scenic beauty," the magazine said of the bay.

The rising popularity of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has prompted travel agencies to develop a wide range of cruises – from budget to high-end, including half-day or overnight trips, it added.

The magazine also advised tourists to drop by Thien Cung (Heaven Grotto), one of the biggest caves in Ha Long, and Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave that "give way to impressive sweeping views of the water below."/.

VNA