At 6 p.m. on Aug. 10, Nguyen Thi Tuyet (far left), who lives in Hanoi, and her colleagues arrive at Hanoi Train station, preparing for a company's trip on the new luxury Hanoi-Dong Hoi train.
The group had nearly 30 people, booking two soft sleeper cars.
The 13-car service began running on Aug. 10. Built in Vietnam using Chinese technologies, the line features adjustable climate control, plush upholstery and private sleeper cabins.
A group of foreign tourists get on the train.
Running overnight, the train departs Hanoi on even days and returns from Dong Hoi on odd days, arriving in time for passengers to wake up to the scenic landscapes of Quang Binh, home to the world-famous Phong Nha–Ke Bang caves.
At first, Tuyet is worried about the cramped sleeper cabins, unclean toilets, and poor soundproofing. But she is surprised to find the train equipped with modern, hotel-like facilities.
"I had heard plenty of negative stories from friends about traveling by train, but my Hanoi–Dong Hoi trip turned out to be the complete opposite," Tuyet said.
Tuyet said the toilet is clean and tidy. The train travels smoothly, without shaking, helping her sleep well all night.
Prices start from over VND600,000 (US$23) for a seat, with first-class sleepers ranging up to VND1.1 million, and discounted fares available in its first 10 days.
Tran Thanh Tung (L) said he had taken many north–south trains before, but this trip felt different. He and his sister opt for soft seats.
"Soft seats can recline, each has a charging socket and free Wi-Fi, and the food is sold at reasonable prices," Tung said.
A group of 18 Spanish tourists enjoy dining as the train passes through Tho Loc station in Quang Tri Province, about 30 km from Dong Hoi station.
Miguel (L), one of the Spanish tourists, said he was surprised by how clean, comfortable, and spacious the train was.
Having traveled by train in many countries, he rated this trip 9 out of 10 points and said he would recommend it to friends when he returns home.
The high-quality Hanoi - Dong Hoi train. Video by Mai Anh
