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Originally named Transindochinois, this is the train which links Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Construction commenced in 1899 and was not completed until 1936, but for most of this century the service was out of action due to various wars. In 1975 the re-establishment of the rail link between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City became a critical project as a symbol of unity for all Vietnamese, hence the name Reunification Express.
The train has various classes, but VVT books air-conditioned “soft sleepers”, four-berth, lockable compartments on the train. Each carriage has its own toilet/washroom, but this is not the Orient Express, so bring your own food and refreshments for your journey. For overnights, bring a sheet or sleeping bag liner and you are all set to watch the whole of Vietnam pass by your carriage window
Despite the rough roads the Northern Loop tour has become a bit of a classic. This is on account of the overwhelming scenery and the popular hill town of Sapa , an old hill station (elevation 1,700 meters) close to the Chinese border. The region is home to numerous colourful ethnic minority groups. The trip also includes a visit to the historic battlefield of Dien Bien Phu . This northern loop, you have chance to stay in the traditional long house on stilts, get closer to daily life of Thai ethnic minority people at Mai Chau, Hoa Binh and encounter a number of hill tribes, picturesque landscape, wildlife of Tay Bac (North West). You will discover the undiscovered part of Vietnam and have definitively experiences of life.
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