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Hi there, we are traveling to Vietnam in mid-August (a family of four including two teenagers) and I am currently reviewing the best travel options from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha. As the drive is extremely long, and private car hire seems like a wasted day, we are considering taking an overnight sleeper train from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi. Does this approach seem practical?
I would be very grateful for some clarity regarding two points about the train:
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I recall reading that train tickets typically open for sale only 60 (or possibly 90) days ahead of time. I was therefore quite surprised to find available bookings for my precise date already listed on platforms like Baolau and 12Go.Asia. Can anyone confirm if these early reservations are definitely confirmed tickets?
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The available routes are SE 3/19/1. These services either require an extremely early arrival in Dong Hoi (SE 3 – 5:29 AM) or necessitate a very late departure from Ninh Binh (SE 1 – 11:10 PM). Since this is my first trip to Vietnam, I’m concerned about the safety and ambiance of the stations late at night/early morning. Which timing option is considered the most reasonable? Furthermore, 5:29 AM seems too early to arrange a smooth car transfer to Phong Nha!
Any guidance or suggestions would be highly appreciated, thanks so much!
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We did this trip in reverse recently. It was 9 hours and we did it during the day as we enjoyed looking at the scenery etc. we booked soft seats (forward facing) and it was great. The locals were all really friendly and kept trying to feed us with strange fruits etc… it was all very jolly.
We enjoyed staying in Dong Hoi but it was the bleakest place we’ve been to in terms of cafes and restaurants… unless we missed them, there weren’t many…we had a great hotel on the beach which was virtually empty… it was a great place to visit the Phong Hoi area… it might be worth looking at heading out there as lots to do in that area… caves etc
Thanks very much for all the help. Yes we’ve been in touch with a caving company in Phong Nha to do a trip involving staying in a cave overnight – my teens are super excited about this but I am terrified!
If you are staying in Ninh Binh prior, I would leave your luggage at your accommodation. That was never a problem.
If you are wanting to stow your luggage in Dong Hoi on arrival, in route to Phong Nha, I would definitely arrange transfer with your accommodation there. You could just let them know what you want to do when you arrive in Dong Hoi, and keep your luggage in the car if you decide to make stops.
“I recall reading that train tickets typically open for sale only 60 (or possibly 90) days ahead of time. I was therefore quite surprised to find available bookings for my precise date already listed on platforms like Baolau and 12Go.Asia”
Yes that is frequently the case, to have to wait to book. But, not always. You said they match your desired date – book them!
However, they will not email the electronic tickets until closer to the travel date – no need for alarm.
Recommend baolau.com
I have taken both late night + early morning trains in VN. Your concern, does not apply to VN train stations.
Replying to ctm7944
Thanks very much. Looking again it looks as if it is just the private company berths (Violette etc) that are available.I assume that’s why I can get them now. I’ve read they can be a bit more money for no real added value but it’s probably worth it to be certain of dates given we’re on the inevitable too-tight schedule to fit it in with annual leave etc!
Replying to Cbba99
“Worth” is in the eye of the beholder! For some, certainty is a real added value. Up to you.
Absolutely sensible. and wouldn’t do it any other way honestly. You would waste a day.
1. If they are available, go for it now. I was able to book a train reservation before 90 days, and couldn’t book another well after 60, so it really all depends.
2.I wouldn’t be concerned about safety. There will be plenty of people doing the same thing, and Vietnam is not like many western countries in this regard.
Vietnam wakes up early. You will be more than fine catching a car at that time. I would work with your accommodation regardless for possible transfer. If not Mai Linh / Vinasun Taxis, or Grab.
Have a great trip!
Replying to TheFiveCentDime
Thank you very much for your really helpful reply, that’s very reassuring!
Replying to Cbba99
Not a problem.
While I haven’t been to Dong Hoi (went through it via overnight train), I would almost have an inkling to get to the coast somewhere for breakfast or coffee and watch the sunrise. Also, fishing activity, along with morning routines before it gets too hot, are always fascinating no matter where you are in Vietnam.
Replying to TheFiveCentDime
That’s such a lovely idea. Are there generally places you can leave luggage at stations?
I’m hoping we can also have a really full day in Ninh Binh before we leave and that we can keep the luggage somewhere!