This blog entry captures the essence of traveling through Vietnam with a child—authentic experiences, local insights, and the joy of simple adventures. Let me know if you’d like further tweaks!
Table of Contents
- Main Journey
- Events
- Tips for Traveling with a Child
- Local Travel Tips
- Travel Reflections
Main Journey from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang by Train with a baby
Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang: A Train Adventure with Sweetie
After a brief but vibrant stay in Ho Chi Minh City, we were ready to embark on the next leg of our world travel journey—an overnight train ride to Da Nang.
The day began with our usual routine of navigating the bustling city streets, but this time with a mission: catching the train at Saigon Railway Station. Most streets in Vietnam are one-way, which can be confusing for newcomers. We started at the familiar Highlands Coffee on De Tham Street, walking to the bus stop opposite the park. From here, buses 65 and 149 would take us close to the station.
The Challenge of Getting to the Station
Armed with Google Maps and some basic Vietnamese phrases, we confidently boarded the bus. Tickets were a mere 5,000 VND per person—a bargain for an 18 km ride! Though the bus didn’t stop directly at the station, it dropped us about 600 meters away. Sweetie was unfazed by the walk, her tiny feet happily skipping through narrow alleys, while Julie and I carried our bulging backpacks.
Local residents greeted us with curious smiles and friendly waves as we meandered through streets rarely visited by tourists. Despite the narrow alleys being crammed with motorbikes, there was an odd sense of tranquility here.
Events
Arriving at Saigon Railway Station
Finally, we arrived at “Ga Sai Gon” (Saigon Railway Station). It’s essential to use the local term “Ga” when referring to train stations in Vietnam, as most locals don’t speak much English. Da Nang’s station, for instance, is “Ga Da Nang.”
With two hours to spare, we settled into the waiting area. Vietnamese hospitality shone as locals shared their snacks with Sweetie—crispy crackers, juicy tangerines, and even a homemade bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich).
I couldn’t resist the temptation to find my own bánh mì. Stepping outside the station, I found a street vendor selling them for just 15,000 VND each—significantly cheaper than what we had paid earlier in the day. Packed with savory meats, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauces, these sandwiches were a revelation. I even bought a second one for good measure.
Boarding the SE2: The Journey Begins
Our train, SE2, awaited us on Platform 1. We were relieved to see that our berths were on the lower level—perfect for Sweetie, who often climbs and tumbles about. The upper berths seemed daunting for a family with a toddler.
The train interiors were modest but cozy. After settling in, we savored the bánh mì I had brought along. Surprisingly, these simple, street-side sandwiches outshone the pricier ones we had tried earlier in our trip.
Tips for Traveling with a baby
1. Navigating Public Transport with a Toddler
- Use Google Maps to identify bus routes and stops. Vietnamese buses are efficient but don’t always stop directly at major landmarks. Be prepared to walk the last stretch.
- Always confirm your destination with the bus conductor. Even with the language barrier, locals are eager to help.
2. Keeping Toddlers Entertained on Long Train Rides
- Pack a variety of small toys or coloring books. Sweetie spent hours drawing and playing with her stuffed animals, which kept her content.
- Opt for lower berths on overnight trains. It’s safer for young children and provides easier access for parents.
3. Food on the Go
- Vietnamese snacks like bánh mì, fresh fruits, and steamed treats (often wrapped in banana leaves) are widely available, affordable, and toddler-friendly. Sweetie loved the banana-leaf-wrapped sticky rice dumplings we found at a station shop.
Local Travel Tips
1. Getting Around Ho Chi Minh City
- Public buses like 65 and 149 are reliable and inexpensive for reaching Saigon Railway Station. However, expect to walk a bit from the bus stop to the station.
- Avoid rush hour when traveling with heavy luggage. Buses and streets around the Ben Thanh Market area can become extremely crowded.
2. Where to Find the Best Bánh Mì
- Don’t be fooled by fancy stalls or tourist areas. Street-side carts often sell the most authentic and delicious bánh mì at a fraction of the price.
3. Engaging with Locals
- Vietnamese people are incredibly kind and curious about foreigners, especially families with young children. Accepting their gifts or sharing a smile goes a long way in building connections.
Travel Reflections from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang by Train with a baby
1. The Joy of Simple Moments from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang by Train with a baby
Watching Sweetie play with local children and delight in their offerings reminded us of the universality of kindness. The snacks and smiles shared at the station were a highlight of our day.
2. The Magic of Street Food
The bánh mì I found outside the station was a culinary gem. It’s amazing how something so simple and affordable can leave such a lasting impression. Vietnamese street food truly captures the heart of its culture.
3. Traveling with a Toddler: Challenges and Rewards
Yes, traveling with a toddler comes with its challenges—carrying extra luggage, finding child-friendly meals, and dealing with their boundless energy. But moments like Sweetie’s laughter on the train or her joy at receiving a homemade treat make it all worthwhile.
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