I bought tickets for 1st class. Either the system was making mistake, or if there was 1st class, I couldn't imagine what 2nd class would look like. (according the pictures, there is no difference...although in the price there is a little)
Better than expected. Ride was clean and toilet was bearable. The experience was enjoyable for the kids, and allowed quality time to be spent in conversations.
Good cabin, friendly staff, nice service. Not brand new, some scratches aso are already there. Bedlinen has been changed, wifi as well as air condition worked good enough.nice fellow travellers, I liked it.
Just one thing, you should write, that this is not a separate train but a coach within a train. Otherwise, people have no idea about it.
This was actually whole a lot better than we expected.
Personally, I love trains, and as I’m from Japan, the night train is becoming a thing of the past in Japan now. Before we got onboard, I heard it’d be really bumpy and loud since the rail track is a century old, and to be honest, it was indeed bumpy and loud. But, we had actually better experience than Japanese Sunrise Express!! From the refreshments available in the room, hot food service and catering available to comfortable sleeping accommodations, we were blown away by it. Something we can’t have in Japan (if you pay million yen, you could have such experience in Japan, but we aren’t one of those people…)
So, it was truly amazing experience for us. I know taking flight or night bus was cheaper and more efficient convenient way to travel, but I’m glad I made the right decision for our first trip to Vietnam! Thank you so much for your hospitality!
The CHAPA Express will be one of my fondest memories from my trip to Vietnam. The train cabin was clean and cozy. The views were incredible. I appreciate how Dean messaged me on WhatsApp to give me directions on where to check in and the lounge. Richard then escorted me to my cabin and helped me get settled. He answered all my questions. Richard was a delight to talk to before my departure. The staff waives you off to Da Nang. Then you start a magical train ride from Hanoi to Da Nang!