Vietnam Railways Corporation (VNR) and Vietravel are planning to establish a luxury train service in Vietnam, akin to the "Orient Express." The train will feature facilities including a gym with modern equipment and a multifunctional entertainment center, which includes a kids' club with childcare services, a movie theater, and gaming facilities.
The train will offer 5-star relaxation coaches designed for maximum comfort, including a luxurious and private King Suite. Additionally, the coaches will be adorned with art pieces to offer insights into Vietnam's heritage.
The project aims to offer a unique travel experience with international standards to upscale domestic and international tourists, contributing to sustainable tourism development. The initiative, named "ONE TICKET ALL TRAILS," combines various modes of transportation from air to rail, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Train travel in Vietnam has been gaining popularity. In 2023, domestic train travel saw 10 million passengers, a 15% increase from 2022, while international train travel reached 1.5 million, up 20%. This growth reflects the recovery and development of Vietnam's train tourism post-COVID-19.
Vietnam's railway system, established 143 years ago with a total length of 3,143 km, connects most major provinces and cities. The country's diverse landscapes and culture offer unique experiences for train travellers. Recent developments in the railway sector include beautifying stations and routes and a strategy to exploit the tourism market.
In 2023, Vietnam Railways was featured in Lonely Planet's "Amazing Train Journeys," highlighting the Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh City route as one of the most beautiful and worthwhile train journeys globally.
Previously, Olivier Brochet, the French Ambassador to Vietnam, mentioned that French fashion and luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, expressed interest in organizing a luxury train service between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City using vintage carriages over 30 years old. Brochet requested the Ministry of Transport to make exceptions to current regulations to facilitate this service.
Lonely Planet notes that the Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh City railway line, stretching 1,730km, offers a two-day journey through bustling cities and tranquil rural areas, showcasing Vietnam's natural landscapes from misty mountains to serene beaches. The North-South railway is also one of the most significant overnight train services globally.
