There are faster ways to cross Vietnam. There are no better ones.
The Reunification Express runs the length of the country, from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. The full journey takes about 35 hours. We broke it into four legs over two weeks, stepping off in Huế, Đà Nẵng, and Nha Trang.
The Hải Vân Pass
The stretch between Huế and Đà Nẵng is one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. The line hugs the cliffs above the South China Sea, ducking through tunnels and emerging over coves of improbable turquoise. Get a window seat on the left side heading south.
Life in a soft sleeper
A four-berth cabin is a small world. Our companions on the first night were a grandmother travelling to see her new grandson and a university student who wanted to practise English. By morning, we'd shared dragonfruit, instant noodles, and photographs of everyone's families.
- Book soft sleeper for overnight legs — it's comfortable and inexpensive.
- Bring snacks to share. It's the fastest way to make friends.
- Hop off in Huế for the imperial citadel and the best bún bò in the country.
Slow travel isn't about the distance. It's about who you meet along the way.
