Vietnam’s Luxury Rail Journey From North To South Gains Widespread French Media Attention

Vietnam’s luxury rail journey, which spans from the northern to the southern regions of the country, has captured the attention of French media due to its exceptional blend of culture, comfort, and scenic beauty. This train route offers an unparalleled experience for travelers, taking them through some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes, from lush mountains to vibrant coastlines. The luxurious amenities on board and the opportunity to explore the country’s rich history and diverse regions in style have made it a sought-after travel experience, garnering significant interest from French media outlets eager to highlight this unique offering in the realm of luxury tourism.

French media outlets Le Figaro and Ouest-France have recently highlighted a new luxury travel offering in Vietnam: SJourney, a premium rail tourism service that promises an unforgettable exploration of the country’s diverse landscapes and rich history.

Starting in late 2024, Vietnam introduced its first-ever high-end rail tourism service, an eight-day, seven-night journey that runs from North to South, aboard a train that has been dubbed the “Orient Express of Asia.” This new travel experience is a collaboration between two key players in Vietnam’s tourism and rail industries. The service offers a luxurious and immersive way to explore Vietnam’s most famous landmarks, offering travelers a slower, more meaningful way to experience the country.

The SJourney route takes passengers from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, traveling along the North-South railway, the country’s most important rail line, connecting major cities and regions. The journey traverses a wide variety of terrains, from rolling rice paddies and tranquil coastal villages to the striking limestone mountains and scenic highlands. Along the way, travelers will have the opportunity to discover Vietnam’s cultural heritage through carefully selected stopovers at some of the nation’s most significant and picturesque locations.

The trip’s cultural stops include Ninh Binh, famous for its river-carved landscapes and karst mountains; Hue, the former imperial capital known for its ancient citadel and historical significance; and Hoi An, an ancient town with well-preserved buildings and a rich blend of cultural influences. These stops provide a unique insight into Vietnam’s past and present, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the country’s vibrant history and culture. Every destination is paired with guided excursions, all included as part of the package, offering travelers a complete experience from start to finish.

Onboard, the train is designed to be a “luxury hotel on rails,” with just 60 passengers per journey, ensuring a personalized and exclusive experience. The private cabins are designed with comfort in mind, featuring high-end amenities to ensure a restful and luxurious stay. In addition to the cabins, there are shared spaces including lounges, a bar, and a dining car that offers a range of culinary delights. The dining experience on board combines Asian flavors with international cuisine, allowing guests to savor regional specialties while enjoying the ambiance of the train. The wine selection, carefully curated from around the world, complements the menu and adds an extra touch of luxury to the experience.

The entire SJourney experience is focused on providing a leisurely pace, allowing passengers to fully appreciate the changing landscapes outside their windows. As reported by French media, the experience evokes the spirit of legendary train journeys, where the journey itself takes precedence over the destination. In a time when air travel reduces distances to mere hours, the SJourney train provides a rare opportunity to experience Vietnam slowly, savoring each moment and the scenic beauty of the country in a way that air travel simply cannot offer. Passengers are encouraged to focus on the journey, rather than rushing to their next destination.

This focus on a slower, more reflective travel experience is a significant aspect of the luxury rail cruise. Unlike modern travel, which often prioritizes speed and convenience, the SJourney journey emphasizes immersion in the country’s landscapes, culture, and people. The train journey offers a unique perspective on Vietnam’s rural and urban areas, highlighting the country’s natural beauty and the richness of its cultural traditions.

The price for this exclusive travel experience reflects its luxury status. The journey is priced at approximately 8,000 EUR per person, making it an upscale option for affluent travelers looking to combine cultural exploration with high-end travel. This price includes everything from the all-inclusive stops to the meals and beverages served onboard, ensuring that guests can relax and enjoy every aspect of the experience without concern.

The SJourney experience aligns perfectly with the growing demand for luxury, slow-paced, and culturally rich tourism. It caters to international travelers who seek more than just a trip; they want an experience that allows them to connect with the destinations they visit on a deeper level. This type of travel is gaining popularity, as more people are looking for ways to escape the rush of modern life and enjoy a more thoughtful and fulfilling travel experience.

For Vietnam, the launch of SJourney marks a significant step forward in diversifying the country’s tourism offerings. The North-South railway, once simply a transportation route, is now being leveraged as a unique and immersive experience space. The train journey offers travelers a completely new way to experience the country, showcasing not just its natural beauty, but also its cultural heritage. By introducing this luxury rail service, Vietnam is tapping into a new market of high-end travelers while also promoting deeper cultural understanding.

In addition to catering to the luxury market, the service also serves to boost Vietnam’s broader tourism sector. The promotion of cultural tourism and the country’s natural wonders can help establish Vietnam as a top destination for travelers seeking meaningful and immersive experiences. The SJourney is set to provide a unique opportunity for people to discover Vietnam in a way that’s both relaxed and deeply connected to the country’s rich history.

Vietnam’s luxury rail journey, connecting the north to the south, has gained widespread French media attention for its unique blend of luxurious travel, stunning landscapes, and cultural immersion, offering an unparalleled experience for travelers.

Ultimately, SJourney is more than just a train ride; it’s a journey into the heart of Vietnam, offering a slower, more meaningful exploration of the country’s landscapes, culture, and history. For those seeking a truly unique and luxurious way to experience Vietnam, this rail service promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure across the country.