Helpful Advice
TRAIN TRAVEL FROM HANOI TO SAPA ADVICE
=> It is better to spend extra money to get a private cabin on trains to Sapa!
=> Bring toilet paper just in case, and hand sanitizer for shared bathroom and toilet facilities.
=> You do not get a key to your compartment but it locks from inside so keep valuables with you if you leave the compartment.
=> 2 berth cabin is usually a four berth cabin with the top two beds folded down.
=> If you want to take a chance to use so-called out-off date transportation, you can take train over bus!
=> There is a screen showing the correct platform for your train. The tickets where showing coach and seat/bed number so it is not difficult to find your train.
=> Train trip is noisy and bumpy-bear in mind that you are in a vehicle but gentle bumping on the tracks sometimes rocks you to sleep :-). Earplugs are helpful too!
=> Treat yourself a nice dinner before getting onto the train to Sapa where you are departing for villages and mountains.
=> There are no shower facilities and only a public basin and toilet that you will share on trains.
=> At the station don’t let anyone touch your bags or lead you to your cabin. They ask for money afterwards and lockup a stink if it’s not over 100,000 dong. Just wave them off and you’ll manage yourself easily.
Have a nice trip to Sapa!