I think everyone wants to visit Ha Long Bay before it becomes too commercialized and loses its natural beauty. Cost of living is cheap relative to international standard, but it's getting more expensive by the day. I wonder if the local people are able to experience the increased living standard or if some are being left behind. @haccolong, what do you think about the standard of living in Vietnam?
I think everyone would agree that Vietnam is super safe. You hear some talks about some mugging and petty thefts but you rarely hear about major deadly crimes. In the USA and other western countries, crimes resulting in significant injuries and deaths occur on a daily basi.
That's the difference between the countries' political systems. What I just mentioned is an answer given by a foreigner when I asked why she/he chose Vietnam to come. In general, my points may be correct. But, nothing is perfect. Like the saying "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." So, it's normal if you disagree with me and have another opinion. Also, there's one thing that I probably shouldn't forget to mention : " The grass is always greener on the other side." It seems to be quite practical but it might be the key to the given question.