The train station in Vietnam is hectic. Waiting rooms are filled with restless passengers; some wrestling with enormous backpacks, others carefully balancing snacks and drinks on their suitcases while trying to connect to the Wifi for one last check of Facebook before forced offline time for however many hours… Welcome to the Reunification Express of Vietnam!
For many visitors the most common way to travel around Vietnam is by air and road. But, for those looking for a fresh outlook on destinations, exploring Vietnam by train is a great way to meet people, see more of the country and experience another side to this amazing country. Vietnam’s north-south railway is named in the list of world’s top 8 most incredible train journeys. Taking a train ride is the best way to see Vietnam. Vietnam rail travel offers a breathtaking view, up close and personal. Rice fields, palm trees, water buffalo, Vietnamese towns and villages… You get a real insight into Vietnam when you travel by train which you don’t get from 35,000 feet. If you watch you’ll get insights on board the train, too – the real Vietnam is as much inside as outside the train. The journey allows passengers to sit and enjoy romantic scenery and rural landscapes along coastal towns in the central region. Some railways rattle through historic cities; others swoosh beside spectacular coastlines. A few have an epic history, and one or two are remarkable for the colorful characters onboard. The Reunification Express line fulfills all these criteria. The most magical part of a Hanoi to Saigon train journey is between Hue and Danang where the train runs along the South China Sea, snaking from cliff to jungle-covered cliff past beaches and islands, then heads through the lush green mountains via the Hai Van Pass to reach Danang. World class scenic! In Vietnamese it’s Đeo Hai Vân, meaning ‘the Ocean Cloud Pass”. In the bright Vietnamese sun, the vivid blue skies, green waters and yellow beaches will take your breath away.
However, let me remind you that things won’t be as calm and perfect as those amazing pictures you see online. When you’re on the train, you’ll hear all sorts of noises: the voices of people selling things, kids laughing or crying, people chatting away, and the smell of food all around. People will be moving in and out of the train, so if you want some quiet time, it’s a good idea to choose your own little space in a private compartment. Oh, and bring some headphones if you want to really relax and sleep well. Also, keep in mind that this train has been running for more than 130 years, so some things might not be super modern or extra comfy.
So, get on that train with excitement and an open mind. Get ready to experience the mix of sights and sounds that is Vietnam by train. It’s like a journey within a journey, where every noise and every view tells you a bit more about this amazing country.
