Cat ba worth it. And we don’t miss the fresh .

Cat ba worth it. The next day, yes you can catch a LHB Day Cruise; but, it returns to the dock too late for you to catch the last ferry. It was established in 1986 and consists of both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Our guide offers tips on avoiding disruptions, finding peaceful spots, and making the most of your trip to this beautiful island. We walked just up the road away from the tourist area and found much nicer restaurant, selling nicer quality local food. This guide will help you plan your own visit! Dec 8, 2024 · Wondering if Cat Ba Island is worth visiting? Discover the top attractions, insider tips, and everything you need to know before planning your trip to this beautiful destination. Things to do in Cat Ba Island, How to reach Cat Ba Island & cost of travelling. Feb 18, 2025 · I'm planning to spend a couple nights in Cat Ba in April and I have read about construction in the bay Can anyone tell me what the current situation looks like? I'd love to find a hotel with a water view but I'm not sure if thats possible right now. Halong Bay is the Jul 18, 2023 · Last Updated on May 9, 2024 Cat Ba is an island located off the coast of northeastern Vietnam and is definitely worth a visit! Its stunning beauty combined with plenty of activities make it a great destination to visit. This place is constantly being invested in and developed to become a tourist international destination in the future with a complex of many hotels, resorts, Cat Ba island has been known with a primeval forest on limestone mountains, which is being promoted to develope the eco-tourism on the main island. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Information on getting to Cat Ba, where to stay, things to do, beaches to visit, and more! We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. There are many things to do in Cat Ba Island and it well worth the visit. But it seems that its only two that are legal, Asia Outdoors and Cat Ba Venture. Don't get there the wrong period! Discover the best time to go to have a perfect weather. Cat Ba Book your tickets online for Cat Ba Island, Cat Ba: See 1,353 reviews, articles, and 1,533 photos of Cat Ba Island, ranked No. We booked our bus ride and boat trip while we were in Hanoi, two days before we wanted to travel. ⭐ Find travel tips, things to do + see, attractions, interesting places, activities in Cat Ba travel guide. . Is Halong Bay really worth visiting? We’re not entirely sure. Jan 28, 2023 · Cat Ba Island is a true gem in Vietnam, known for its natural beauty, quiet tranquility, and adventure. Many activities, such as hiking and swimming, are free or low-cost. See my in-depth tour review and recap of what to expect. Despite its small area, which is about 350 square kilometers, we can find here many wonderful and beautiful places, such as the Hospital Cave, Monkey Island and Cat Ba National Park. It is the perfect base to discover the fascinating Han La Bay, the less renowned but equally stunning inlet near to the world-famous (and very touristy) Ha Long Bay. Nov 12, 2024 · 1. Cat Ba’s weather is thus comprised of four distinct seasons which are characterized with different features. Initially I wanted to do Halong Bay for obvious reasons, but after researching it, I settled on Cat Ba for more freedom and a less busy experience. The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a computer based test (CBT) for admission in a graduate management program. Going via Cat Ba is a great way to do it on the cheap! The ferry can take buses (small 16 seater type) that will connect from Cat Ba to Cat Hai - the next island westward and which DOES have a bridge to the mainland. The biggest island, Cat Ba, is only about 25 km from the famous Halong Bay. A tour from Cat ba and just to see ha long bay. Here's why you should add it to your travel itinerary now. Be Sep 7, 2024 · Cat Ba Island is very easy to access from Hanoi and you will need to allow between 4-5hours each way. The island has become increasingly popular among travelers looking for a serene, off-the-beaten-path escape, offering a unique combination of stunning natural scenery, rich history, and fascinating culture. 3 on Tripadvisor among 18 attractions in Cat Ba. Among them, Cat Ba island is an attractive destination for tourists. Not only is it a paradise for nature lovers, but it also offers some of the best hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures in Vietnam. Here’s why I’m convinced it’s worth your time: Cat Ba Island is the perfect starting point to arrange cheaper boat tours and cruises to Ha Long Bay and its neighbor Lan Ha Bay. Roughly equidistant from two of northern Vietnam’s largest industrial cities – Hai Phong (to the west) and Ha Long (to the north) – Cat Ba Island is, nonetheless, one of the country’s star Jan 3, 2024 · Cat Ba Island travel guide. If you plan to visit this amazing island, just keep in mind these following things Taking a cruise from Cat Ba is a very similar experience to Ha Long bay, but less tourists and you don't see some of the caves. Motorbike Cat Ba is the latest instalment of my two-wheeled tips for those wanting to bike around Asia. Dec 2, 2024 · Boat Tours from Cat Ba Being a responsible traveler means opting for solutions that respect the surrounding environment as much as possible. Mar 17, 2025 · After your HB cruise you would have time to catch the ferry to Cat Ba Island. It's not too expensive imo, about the same as any other tourist spot in Vietnam. Where To Stay On Cat Ba Island Okay, low value to high value. Both Cat Ba Island and Halong City are around 3 hours from Hanoi. Overall, it’s a two hour online test divided into forty minutes for each section. Re: Is Cat Ba worth it after Halong bay? 18 Mar 2025, 7:47 am Save "I’m taking a 2 day 1 night cruise to Halong bay, after i’m planning on spending another full day in Cat ba to also do Lan Ha bay cruise " Two questions: If you had four days left in Vietnam, would you choose Sapa for trekking adventure or Ha Giang loop tour? Is squeezing in two days at Cat Ba worth it with limited time, or is it just super touristy and time should be used to stay longer in Ninh Binh? Dec 10, 2023 · Explore the top activities and attractions on Cat Ba Island with our comprehensive guide. Be Feb 9, 2024 · When you visit Vietnam there are some places you must visit, one of those is Halong Bay. Cat Ba island was recognized as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO on Dec […] Is Cat Ba Island Worth Visiting? Location: Cat Ba Island is in Cat Hai district, Hai Phong City. Apr 8, 2024 · All you need to know to visit Cat Ba Island, Vietnam. So, is it worth visiting? Feb 19, 2025 · Here you can cruise through the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay on a traditional junk boat, swapping the more fancy boats of Ha Long Bay. The test consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) and Quantitative Ability (QA). It Apr 17, 2018 · Cat Ba, is the most magical and interesting among all of the islands in the north sea of Vietnam. To add Mar 18, 2025 · After that, i’m heading back to Hanoi. Nov 16, 2024 · Cat Ba National Park is situated in the UNESCO Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve. Travel with me to Cat Ba Island! Nov 12, 2024 · Overview of Cat Ba climates It can be said that Cat Ba weather is special, with cooler summers and hotter winters compared to the terrain. Cat Ba Island is a beautiful island with stunning scenery, however the main town, especially the waterfront lets it down. If however, you’re travelling on a tight travel fund, these first options for where to stay on Cat Ba Island are for you. In this post, we’ll dive into why this construction is happening, how it might affect your trip to Cat Ba, and why you can still enjoy a cruise around Lan Ha Bay with Bong Hostel. If you’re looking for adventure, relax and natural marvels, with Cat Ba you can’t go possibly go wrong! 😉 In this guide, I will narrate Either Halong Bay or Cat Ba is ok but I suggest you take a overnight cruise Halong Bay- Cat Ba island to see both. 🇻🇳 [Cat Ba Weather Update – What to Expect This Week?] Planning a trip to the stunning island of Cat Ba in the next few days? Heads up — the weather is a bit unpredictable this week! 🌦️ 👉 From now until the weekend, expect scattered showers and thunderstorms in the afternoons, with temperatures ranging from 26–30°C. Mar 17, 2025 · After that, i’m heading back to Hanoi. Cat Ba archipelago includes 367 islands located south of Halong Bay. However, it would be too late to catch a Lan Ha Bay Day Cruise which depart the dock around 10AM. In this post, we share what we learned from our experience on Venezia Cruises 3-day 2-night Lan Ha Bay itinerary and from extensive research on HaLong Bay. And we don’t miss the fresh Mar 14, 2025 · Discover how to enjoy Cat Ba Island in 2025 despite ongoing construction. Dont want a over night tour. Cat Ba is the largest island in the Bay and approximately half of its area is covered by a national park, which is home to the highly endangered Cat Ba langur. Some focus on the southern part, staying in Lan Ha Bay, while others The climate is unfavourable 3 months out of 12 in Cat Ba island. Sep 22, 2019 · Cat Ba Island, the largest island in Halong Bay, offers visitors a perfect combination of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. :) I’m taking a 2 day 1 night cruise to Halong bay, after i’m planning on spending another full day in Cat ba to also do Lan Ha bay cruise Mar 1, 2025 · Hello everyone. Apr 20, 2024 · Cat Ba Island is the undiscovered gateway to Halong Bay and the UNESCO sites of Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay. Aug 14, 2018 · After that, I already knew that I would skip Ha Long Bay and go to Cat Ba Island instead. I stayed in Cat Ba for a couple nights and then did a day cruise through Lan Ha & Ha Long Bay that left from there. Let us introduce you to a list of homestays in Cat Ba worth considering for your vacation. I know the North of Vietnam is cool at this time and ideally i would have liked to visit the north when it is warmer but this is the only time we could take our holidays! So im just wondering is it still worth visitng Cat Ba island when the weather is cooler? We defintely want to Is Cat Ba worth visiting? It’s still well worth exploring. In recent decades the tourism industry has started to transform the island. This tropical haven features emerald green sea water, white sandy beaches, and a welcoming local community. The average temperature in Cat Ba Island is around 25°C (77°F), which makes it a pleasant place to visit all year round, with the best time to visit from Jun 30, 2023 · I had an amazing two-day, one-night Ha Long Bay cruise with Cat Ba Ventures. Max, Min and Average Temperature in Cat Ba Island: The island has a warm and humid climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of around 15°C (59°F) in the winter months to a maximum of around 35°C (95°F) in the summer months. Because it’s not only a launching pad to Ha Long Bay, there’s lots to enjoy when renting a scooter in Cat Ba. Jan 27, 2020 · While Halong Bay is one of Vietnam's shining stars, Cat Ba Island is a hidden gem. Of which, each season bestows the city typical landscapes and seascapes making it a worth-visiting place all year round. Starting in the south and working our way to the North. The island brings together a wonderland of untouched beaches, lush forests, and peaceful floating fishing villages. Compared to Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba offers excellent value, making it a top choice for travellers on a budget. But with so many things to do in Cat Ba Island, it's worth a few days of your Vietnam itinerary. This Cat Ba island travel guide is written by a local guide who has been travelling to Cat Ba tons of times. Definitely worth it! We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. I’ll give you all the info you need if you’re thinking about renting a scooter when you get to Cat Ba Island. Jan 18, 2025 · Ha long bay Vietnam has to be on everyone's bucket list, but it can be expensive. Mar 8, 2024 · With its off-the-beaten-track charm and captivating natural wonders, CAt Ba Island paradise offers you a serene escape from the crowds. The island has an area of 153 km², with the highest mountain Feb 7, 2020 · Cat Ba boasts many beautiful caves and grottoes such as Trung Trang, Quan Y and Thien Long… Trung Trang is the largest valley in Cat Ba Island with the total area of 300 ha, from 10-30 meter lower than the sea level, which is 15km northwest of the island. We compare 2 night and 1 night cruise itineraries as well as HaLong Bay vs. We spent 3 days on Cat Ba Island and half-day trekking at Cat Ba national park. Whether you want to May 7, 2014 · Cat Ba Island: Definitely worth staying on! - See 1,353 traveler reviews, 1,533 candid photos, and great deals for Cat Ba, Vietnam, at Tripadvisor. Basically, I want somewhere with gorgeous views, some sort of beach, low cost of living, and good enough wifi to do basic web dev/seo/social media work online (5mbps will do). With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and outdoor activities, it’s an ideal destination for those looking to explore more than just Halong Bay’s famous karsts. The island offers a variety of activities, such as hiking through lush jungle and national parks, rock-climbing on the islets, kayaking in the crystal clear waters of Lan Ha Bay, and staying on a floating house to witness the beautiful sunsets. The island is known for its spectacular limestone cliffs, pristine beaches Mar 17, 2025 · After that, i’m heading back to Hanoi. 1 to 3 days in Cat Ba itinerary to see best attractions with good timing when planning a trip to Cat Ba islan by a local expert. It gives you access to the best of the spots in Halong bay while letting you unwind in peace. Staying on Cat Ba Island and taking a day boat tour of the bay is the most environmentally friendly way to visit Ha Long Bay. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, a visit to Cat Ba Island promises an unforgettable experience. Yeah. INTRODUCTION | GUIDE | MAP | RELATED POSTS Cat Ba Island, lying in the Gulf of Tonkin, off the northeast coast of Vietnam, is a favourite travel destination for foreign and domestic tourists alike. Discover the beauty, beaches of Cat Ba Island. Plan your trip and experience the magical bioluminescence—book your night tour now! Aug 28, 2023 · Thank You! The Best Things to do in Cat Ba Island 1. Cat Ba Island is one of the most stunning and diverse destinations in Vietnam. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Dec 28, 2024 · Is Visiting Cat Ba Vietnam Worth It? When I stepped off the ferry onto Cat Ba, I immediately knew this wasn’t your typical Vietnamese island destination. #1 Because Cat Ba Island has a lovely national park at its heart – a great place to enjoy some nature time and day hiking And… #2 Because it’s from Cat Ba Island that you can score the best deals for the perfect Hi we will be in Vietnam for 3 weeks starting January 5th. It is home to a large array of fauna and flora including many medicinal plants and the endangered Cat Ba langur. Feb 17, 2025 · Discover the best times to see glowing plankton in Cat Ba & Lan Ha Bay. Over 60 per cent of the project will be allocated to public amenities, landscaping, and green spaces. TheCarpetPissers Y'all know anything about Cat Ba Island, Vietnam? I'm looking for a place to go chill for like a month starting mid-April. Oct 6, 2023 · Cat Ba Island sits in the southwest of the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago UNESCO World Heritage site. For thrill-seekers, Cat Ba offers rare activities like deep water soloing or night kayaking among bioluminescent plankton. Jan 14, 2025 · All about Cat Ba, an island in Lan Ha Bay in North-East Vietnam perfect for jungle hikes and pretty boat rides. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and scuba diving. Apr 12, 2023 · Cat Ba Island in Vietnam is a fascinating place with diverse landscapes, pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Jan 4, 2025 · Cat Ba Island: Construction in main town- beware - See 1,349 traveler reviews, 1,532 candid photos, and great deals for Cat Ba, Vietnam, at Tripadvisor. 000 Vietnam dong, you can visit the forest part, climb to Ngu Lam Peak and Trung Trang Cave. You can also go trekking in Cat Ba National Park to spot the endangered golden-headed langur or explore caves like Trung Trang. If you’re not backpacking and have more leeway in your budget, scroll past the first section. Oct 31, 2023 · Cat Ba Island, which belongs to Vietnam, is considered one of the most beautiful islands of this Asian country. The southeast of the island has Lan Ha Bay, the southwest has Cat Gia Bay with some small but clean sandy beaches, not big waves,it is convenient for the development of beach resorts. Cat Ba is the largest Island of the 367 Islands that compose the Cat Ba Archipelago, and it’s also by far the biggest island between the over 1600 islands and islets that compose the marvelous Archipelago of Halong Bay off the coast of north Vietnam. I liked Cat Ba a lot - it was a nice calm break after the chaos of Hanoi haha. I booked through my hotel and they had options for 2 day cruises if you wanted to spend more time on the water but for me personally the day trip was enough. What to do in Cat Ba Island? Trekking in Cat Ba National Park Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay Beach Relaxation Visiting the Monkey Island Local Fishing Villages Exploring the Cannon Fort Admiring the Hospital Cave 3. Explore Cat Ba Island by Motorbike Exploring Cat Ba on a motorbike One of the best ways to explore Cat Ba Island is by motorbike. Nov 25, 2017 · Cat Ba island is awesome. Certainly visiting this place, it is worth reserving at least a few days to visit the local From Hanoi I have the option of going to Ninh Binh or to Cat Ba for a total of 3 days. I includes things to do, where to stay, what to eat, day trips and overnight tour options around Cat Ba, how to get around, best time to go, pro Mar 17, 2025 · After that, i’m heading back to Hanoi. Feb 6, 2023 · The best time to visit Cat Ba Island is between March and May or September to November. Aug 7, 2024 · This Cat Ba travel guide will walk you trough the island's best things to do and accommodations, as well as the different ways to get there! Cat Ba Island is a beautiful island with stunning scenery, however the main town, especially the waterfront lets it down. I got another very useful tips here, thank you, i have a question i need help with. June to August is the monsoon season in Cat Ba Island, and it is best to avoid visiting the island during this time as Dec 5, 2023 · Cat Ba Island, located in Vietnam’s Lan Ha Bay, offers rich biodiversity, stunning beaches, and exciting adventures, making it a top destination for nature lovers. From snorkeling and trekking to rock climbing and visiting caves, Cat Ba has a lot to offer! In this article, I will tell you everything you need to know for visiting Cat Va What is the best value for your money and time on a HaLong Bay cruise? These are our tips and full HaLong Bay cruise review to help you make the best choice. Cat Ba Island, Vietnam is an amazing place where to spend a few days on your Vietnamese trip. The restaurants and shops are not to our liking, the quality of food at the seafront restaurants we found wasn’t as good as other parts of Vietnam. Explore Cat Ba Island holidays and discover the best time and places to visit. Cat Ba island’s general information Cat Ba island is a complex of 367 islands in the Northeast of Vietnam, which belongs to Hai Phong city. But i dont seem to find any good one. Apr 4, 2025 · Cat Ba Island is an emerging tourist destination in Vietnam, promising a unique experience. Jan 9, 2024 · Cat Ba's weather varies throughout the year, providing visitors with opportunities to experience the unique cuisine and activities exclusive to each season. Jan 23, 2025 · Absolutely! Cat Ba Island is highly affordable, with budget-friendly hostels, mid-range hotels, and delicious local meals at reasonable prices. Cat Ba is an island in the Cat Ba Archipelago of Vietnam 's Ha Long Bay. However, the more I see and read about Cat Ba, the more I think it will be just as crowded and touristy. Aug 21, 2024 · Situated near the heart of Cat Ba town, the project envisions turning Cat Ba into a "mini Maldives of Asia", offering a premium, expansive entertainment hub. Many boats depart from Cat Ba with various itineraries. I read somewhere that boats from Cat ba cant go into Ha long bay? (is this true?) Plan is like 2-3 days maybe in Cat Ba, with a tour around Ha long bay. There is public transport between the main towns but having your own wheels means you can easily visit more of the things to do on Cat Ba island. Jan 18, 2019 · How much does a Halong Bay Tour with Cat Ba Ventures cost? My full day tour, which left Cat Ba island in the early morning and returned by early evening, cost $29/person. This post includes everything you need to know about traveling to Cat Ba island in 2024 with the lastest updates, and practical information. It’s so funny how at the time, on a long-term traveler’s budget, that seemed like so much money… but now, sitting at home in the US, it’s laughably affordable for an actual, honest-to-goodness once in a lifetime Feb 4, 2020 · Most visit Lan Ha Bay for more affordable boat cruises. It's definitely a touristy spot, but considering the beach and nature, you can see why. Be Is It Worth Visiting Cat Ba Island? This island is known for itsunspoiled beauty, with many beautiful islands, lush forests, and clear waters. With the majestic limestone mountains, golden sand beaches, along with countless exciting activities there, Cat Ba has always been the favorite destination of foreign tourists. :) I’m taking a 2 day 1 night cruise to Halong bay, after i’m planning on spending another full day in Cat ba to also do Lan Ha bay cruise Dec 1, 2022 · Cat Ba Island is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in my opinion, but it’s also a spot many travellers miss off their itinerary in this country… and what a shame. This community is mainly for Aug 25, 2024 · Cat Ba Island, one of Vietnam's top natural attractions, is nestled within the renowned Halong Bay. Known for its striking coastlines, lush jungles, and iconic limestone karsts, this island offers a breathtaking experience. Unlike the overrun beaches of Phu Quoc or the party scene of Nha Trang, Cat Ba offers something more authentic. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, it is the largest island in the World Natural Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Whether you’re trekking through its national park, kayaking in hidden lagoons, or Mar 29, 2023 · Cat Ba Island is a picturesque destination situated in northern Vietnam, located in the beautiful Halong Bay. As a result of its diverse ecosystems, you can see mangrove forests, coral reefs, white-sand beaches, dreamy You might have recently heard whispers about major construction on Cat Ba Island. I kept expecting huge crowds, and it was a little on the crowded side, but nothing too crazy. Discover what to do Cat Ba Island and make the most of your adventure. Whereas cooler than summer and hotter than winter, spring Discover events happening in Cat Ba in January and activities that are perfect for a January trip to Cat Ba. Mar 1, 2025 · Hello everyone. From the breathtaking views in Cat Ba National Park to the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, this island has all for you! Visitors can enjoy local fishing villages, admire hidden caves, or simply relax on white-sand beaches. Sep 20, 2023 · If you’re tossing up between Halong Bay or Cat Ba Island, how to get there is worth considering. What to eat in Cat Ba Island? Tu Hài (Geoduck Clam) Sam (horseshoe crab) Bún Tôm (Shrimp Noodles) Cá Giò (Cobia) Cát Hải - Vạn Vân Fish Sauce Mar 7, 2025 · Cat Ba Island caters to a wide range of interests, offering a dynamic blend of adventure and relaxation. With the entrance fee as 80. 17 Interesting Must Do and See in Cat Ba Island 2025 | Updated Cat Ba Island is the largest island in the Cat Ba archipelago, which consists of 367 islands in total. But is it really worth it? In this short post, we will share our point of view on Ha Long Bay and the nearby island of Cat Ba, recommending you the best ways to enjoy these places in Vietnam in nature, away from the crowds. I just was in Cat Ba, it's definitely worth it imo. The distance from Hanoi to Cat Ba island is about 150 km and about 30km from Hai Phong to Cat Ba. My question is, do you think Cat ba is a miss, would it be a repetitive scenery, or a different experience? I’m also spending 2 full days prior in Ninh Binh and been wondering if i should make it 3 days in Ninh Binh instead and skip Cat ba? Or someplace else. Mar 1, 2025 · 1. Plus it also offers plenty to do on the island, like beautiful beaches, breathtaking viewpoints, and the stunning Cat Ba National Park. Feb 1, 2024 · How to spend a amazing 3 days on Cat Ba Island, including visiting the fantastic Halong Bay, the national park, and its wonderful beaches. Check out our complete guide to this beautiful island. In the sea, there are many beautiful limestone mountains on the Nov 14, 2024 · Cat Ba Ventures: Totally worth it! - See 7,948 traveler reviews, 2,393 candid photos, and great deals for Cat Ba, Vietnam, at Tripadvisor. I also feel like the route we took was less Cat Ba Island is a beautiful island with stunning scenery, however the main town, especially the waterfront lets it down. Is Cat Ba worth visiting? 2. Cat Ba has become a summer favourite with domestic tourists and a year-round option for backpackers and travellers with an appetite for adventure and time to explore less visited parts. :) I’m taking a 2 day 1 night cruise to Halong bay, after i’m planning on spending another full day in Cat ba to also do Lan Ha bay cruise Nov 26, 2024 · Yes, Cat Ba National Park is absolutely worth visiting. Lan Ha Nov 11, 2024 · Cat Ba Island, situated in northern Vietnam, is a beautiful destination with stunning landscapes, diverse animals, and exciting activities. Spring (February-April): Spring in Cat Ba is a wonderful season with normal temperatures extending from 18°C to 26°C. Cat Ba Island boasts a pristine beauty of forests, sea, mountains, hills, beaches, caves and villages, offering plenty of opportunities for adventure, relaxation and cultural exploration. I. Spring and harvest time on Cat Ba Island exhibit a mix of these two seasons. tlqgl cjmbq pfw yxmju ibpc rvsu mvvsqbww sztgs yzyi cmac