Adventure in the Night Train to Da Nang with a baby

Julie

2024-11-20

Adventure in the Night Train to Da Nang with a baby

Discover the joys and challenges of taking a Night Train to Da Nang with a baby. From Da Nang’s countryside views to navigating local buses.

Main Journey of Night Train to Da Nang with a baby

Waking Up to the Countryside in Vietnam

The night train from Hanoi to Da Nang provided a surprisingly comfortable rest for all of us. Sweetie (our 26-month-old daughter) slept like a baby, and Julie and I managed to stretch out and relax too. When the first rays of morning light broke through the train window, I peeked outside to find a serene Vietnamese countryside. Green fields and little villages passed by, offering a peaceful start to the day.

Sweetie was already in a cheerful mood, and we kicked off the morning with her favorite treat: jelly candies. These little moments make traveling with a toddler feel magical.

Life on a Vietnamese Night Train

Our cabin had a mix of travelers: local Vietnamese youth occupied the upper bunks, while the corridors were full of passengers with standing tickets. They moved in and out of the bunks as seats became available, creating a dynamic flow in the otherwise cozy train.

Sweetie entertained herself with her beloved companion, Strawberry Sister, her go-to stuffed animal that never leaves her side. While Strawberry Sister keeps Sweetie occupied, she’s also a lifesaver for us, helping to diffuse toddler tantrums like a pro negotiator.

The train’s air conditioning worked wonderfully, keeping us cool as the train bumped along. However, the occasional wafts of cigarette smoke drifting in from nearby cabins were frustrating—a reminder of the cultural differences we’d encounter.

Onboard Meals and Arrival in Da Nang

At around 11 AM, a food cart rolled by selling rice with soup for 35,000 VND. The meal wasn’t gourmet, but it was warm, filling, and convenient. We gobbled it down while preparing for our arrival in Da Nang.

When the train finally reached the platform, the chaos of passengers boarding and alighting began. In true local fashion, everyone surged into the train at once, creating a comedic jumble at the doors.

Events

Exploring Da Nang Train Station: A bustling mix of locals and travelers greeted us as we stepped off the train.
Navigating Local Transportation: Our plan was to catch the No. 1 bus to Hoi An, but it turned out the bus stop had moved! A kind local pointed us to the new location, marked only by a handwritten note taped to a nearby lamppost.

Tips for the Night Train to Da Nang with a baby

1. Train Travel with a Toddler

Night trains in Vietnam are family-friendly if you book a sleeper berth. Sweetie enjoyed the rhythmic motion of the train, and it helped her sleep soundly. Bring favorite toys or comfort items to keep your child entertained during long hours.

2. Snacks Save the Day

Always carry small snacks your child loves. Jelly candies were our lifesaver during early mornings or long waits.

3. Be Ready for Local Quirks

Smoking is still allowed in some public spaces, so prepare for that in enclosed areas like trains. An air purifier mask for your child can be helpful.

Local Travel Tips

1. Bus Navigation in Da Nang

Bus stops aren’t always where they seem to be on maps. If you’re catching a bus like the No. 1 to Hoi An, ask locals for the most up-to-date stop information.

2. Beware of Overcharging

Bus fare to Hoi An is officially 12,000 VND per person, but tourists are often charged much more. Don’t be afraid to haggle politely. We managed to reduce our fare from 30,000 to 20,000 VND per person by standing firm.

3. Stay Assertive

When traveling in Vietnam, especially as a foreigner, always clarify costs beforehand. Small overcharges may not seem significant, but they can add up over time.

Travel Reflections

Embracing the Chaos

Vietnamese public transport, like the bustling train stations and quirky bus stops, is part of the adventure. While it felt chaotic at times, these moments brought us closer to the local culture and reminded us why we love traveling.

Finding Joy in Simplicity

Watching Sweetie play with Strawberry Sister in the bunk or delight in her morning jelly treats made us realize that travel doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. It’s the small, quiet joys that matter most.

Budgeting Lessons

We learned the importance of staying mindful about costs. Even a small markup here and there can add up over a long trip. Staying firm with vendors not only saves money but also sets a good example for Sweetie.