Rather than flying, we decided to take an overnight train from Da Nang to Ho Chi Min City. The train SE23, originates in Hanoi and finishes in Saigon, passing through Da Nang to pick us up. Our journey was 23 hours. It seems daunting to be closed in a cabin with 3 kids for 23 hours, but it was actually great!

Cabins are usually 4 persons and fortunately being 4 persons, we could have our own private cabin. After we boarded, we were offered an upgrade to a better cabin for 400,000 Dong. We figured it was a side hustle and not probably legal, but the train was empty and it was a win-win for both the staff and us. The upgraded accommodations boasted controlled air conditioning, enhanced furnishings, and improved lighting, marking a significant upgrade from our initial booking.

The journey was exceptionally smooth for the kids, who adapted brilliantly to the novel environment. The rhythmic white noise and gentle sway of the train lulled us into a peaceful sleep, adding an unexpected layer of comfort to our travel experience. This train ride, with its unique blend of adventure and tranquility, was not just a means to an end but a memorable part of our Vietnamese exploration.