I have heard a lot about Sapa and Halong Bay while staying in Hanoi. I didn’t have a lot of time to do both, so I decided to just do one tour which was Sapa, Vietnam (I will write about everything Sapa on a different post).
Getting there was not easy as it seemed, because it was in a remote area and the tourism hasn’t developed fully. I opted in for the overnight train as it sounded romantic and I have never done it before. I chose the Victoria Express Train for many reasons, but I wished I knew some of the things before booking the train and hotel package. And here are some of the things that will be good to know before going to Sapa.
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How to Get to Sapa Vietnam from Hanoi
There are two ways you can get to Sapa – Bus or Train
Buses will take about six hours on a sleepers’ bus. It will be comfortable and actually better than the planes. The advantage of taking the bus is that it will only take about six hours and will get you to Sapa. But it is known to be a dangerous ride because of the drivers’ fast and furious and the often fogs covering the roads.
Trains will take about eight hours. It will be comfortable with a actual single bed. The only thing is that it will be a bumpy ride, so you will not have a deep sleep (I am sure it will apply to buses as well). Also, it is a bit more expensive than the buses and it will take about 8 hours to get to Ga Lao Cai. From here you will take a shuttle to Sapa which will take another hour.
What Is Victoria Express Train, And How Is It Like?
Victoria Express train is part of the Victoria hotel Sapa, Vietnam. It is an express train to Sapa from Hanoi. It has two carriages with 2 berth for two people and 16 berth for four.
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The thing you have to know is that even it is classed as elegant and luxury, the carriages are still connected to the normal train. So, you will feel the bumpiness and jerkiness of the train like the normal train. This is not like the Belmond train where they will stop while you you sleep. So be prepared to be waken up by the sudden jerks through the journey.
Even though the Interior Is Beautiful, There Are Still Room for Improvement
The deco and interior are nicely done and has the luxury taste, but you have to be aware of few things. The air-conditioning is right above your head, especially if you are using the four beds and using the upper bed. The air will be shooting cold air on your face. So, I suggest bring a small towel and a tape that you can cover the air, so you can sleep with ease. Also, make sure to get the lower bed, because if you are a big person, you will feel cramped in a small space.
If You Are Lucky, You Can Get the Whole Cabin All By Yourself
I was so lucky because I was able to use the whole cabin to myself. It was off-season, so it was totally empty, but for peak season, I think it is best to book the 2 people berth, because it can be really crowded with four people. If you end up not getting the 2 people carriage, make sure to book the bottom bed.
I know it will be tough to book as you wanted, and we can help you arrange for your most convenience. Just send us a message below FB messenger!
How Do You Book It?
You can book it through their website or through me. If you book the train through us, we can help you make sure you get the best cabin, because we have a good relationship with the company over the years (We give you the same price as the website).
Because of the limited space, they prioritize the hotel guests first. So if you are staying at the hotel, you will be able to book the train easily, especially during peak season.
Where Do You Get the Victoria Sapa Train and Is the VIP Lounge Worth It?
I know it can be a lot of work and stress to book the right train or bus depending on your taste and interest. This is where come in.
We are more than happy to help you create your jouney in Hanoi or Sapa. Don’t hesitate to contact us below messenger, or Email Us .