Titov Island is a small island in Halong Bay, about 7-8km southeast of Bai Chay. It is noted for having a viewpoint at its peak which affords splendid views all around Halong Bay. Titov Island was named in honour of the visit of Gherman Stepanovich Titov (1935-2000), the Soviet astronaut who was the second person to orbit the earth, on 22 November 1962, accompanied by Ho Chi Minh. Titov Island has a crescent shaped beach that is excellent for water sports and recreation. Gherman Titov returned to Titov Island 35 years later, on 27 June 1997, three years before his death, in which time, the island that bore his name has become a major attraction in Halong Bay. Deeply moved, he wrote in the souvenir book of the Management Board of Halong Bay: "My deepest thanks to destiny, which has allowed me to come back to this tiny island.” It has become a beach attracting many visitors.Titov Island is most famous for the magnificent views from its viewpoint pavilion, right at the top of the island. Climbing to the top pavilion is quite tiring, but well worth the effort.