Vietnam Revives Vintage Trains for Luxurious Coastal Mountain Tours

Vietnam is set to reintroduce two vintage steam locomotives for scenic tours along the coast, expected to start between late 2024 and early 2025. Managed by Wafaifo Optimisers, these trains, dating back to the 1960s, are the last operational steam locomotives in the country. 

The routes will connect the central city of Da Nang and the historical city of Hue, offering views of the Hai Van Pass and coastal mountains.

Vietnam's Historic Train Journeys Promise Luxurious Escape

Originally built during Vietnam's French colonial era, these locomotives have been meticulously restored using original parts by the last steam engineers in Vietnam's national railway system. 

CNN shared that each train will feature two retro-styled passenger carriages, a kitchen car, and a baggage carriage, with interiors that reflect the colonial past, including mahogany furnishings and gold accents.

Passengers will be treated to expansive views of the coastline and landscapes, including the green hills of the Hai Van range and Lang Co's fishing villages. The journey is a travel experience and a deep dive into Vietnam's rich history. 

The trains will also offer themed dining experiences at each station, with settings that reflect the imperial and colonial history of the regions they serve.

Adding to the historical ambiance, staff will wear period costumes, and guests will be greeted by a brass band in army regalia. 

Wafaifo Optimisers and Indochina Rail Tourist Service, under the leadership of Michael Gebbie, aim to celebrate Vietnam's heritage from its imperial and colonial days through its struggle for independence. 

This project promises a unique blend of luxury, history, and scenic beauty, inviting tourists to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts.

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Vietnam Tops List for Korean Tourists

Vietnam has become the favorite destination in Southeast Asia for tourists from South Korea. In April, records showed that approximately 847,000 South Korean tourists visited Vietnam. 

This figure represents 31.1% of all South Korean travelers to the region, as reported by the Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

Tourists are drawn to Vietnam's scenic spots such as Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Da Lat. These cities are known for their beautiful beaches, rich culture, and luxury that's easy on the wallet. 

As per Travel and Tour World, the number of visitors to Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc during April reached 173,865, 141,130, and 53,680 respectively.

To cater to the increasing demand, South Korean budget airlines are boosting their services. T'way Air, for instance, added a daily flight from Busan to Nha Trang in May 2024, making it their third direct route to Vietnam. 

Starting June 19, T'way Air will also resume flights from Daegu to Nha Trang, a route paused since May 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Furthermore, Eastar Jet has expanded its operations, now flying from Incheon to Nha Trang and soon, launching a new service to Phu Quoc on July 19, offering seven round trips weekly. 

With enhanced flight connectivity and its appealing destinations, Vietnam continues to attract a significant number of South Korean visitors.

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