The modes of transportation across the lake are varied but we opted for
a kayak. This is definitely the most tranquil way to experience the lake and also enables you to explore areas at your own pace. Our first stop was at Widow Island, a tiny islet that is associated with local legend and folklore relating to a message of open heartedness and generosity, both common Vietnamese attributes.
The local fishermen pass by on very narrow boats laying their nets using water bottles as floats. They stand at the back of the boat and paddle in a circular motion which definitely put my wobbly kayaking action to shame - one of many instances that can make you feel like a clumsy foreigner!
As the sun was setting on the water we paddled over to the next island where An Ma Pagoda sits. I spotted some pink flowers I recognised from another trip, named for their explosive form these ‘Gun’ flowers (Hoa Sung) are a beautiful shade of bright pink and they seem to just burst out of the water.
The colour and light quality at Ba Be is in permanent high definition, so intense you have to blink to remind yourself you're not dreaming. The combination of landscape, mirror like water and quality of light is truly overwhelming.