VIP bus journey Vietnam : Da Nang to Saigon Adventure!
Hello, travel friends! Today, I want to share my recent adventure taking a VIP bus from Da Nang to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam. While I usually prefer flying, this time I had to opt for ground transportation due to some passport-related issues. Initially, I considered taking the train, but with no seats available, I reluctantly chose the VIP bus option. Little did I know, it would turn out to be a surprisingly comfortable and enjoyable experience!
Choosing the Right Bus
After some research, I found a reputable bus company offering VIP services. The amenities provided made the long journey much more bearable:
- Television: Entertainment options to pass the time
- Onboard toilet: A crucial feature for long trips
- Charging points: Keep your devices powered up
- Complimentary sandals: For added comfort during the ride
- Blankets and pillows: Essential for a good night’s sleep
- Complimentary water and wet napkins: Stay refreshed throughout the journey
- Air conditioning: Beat the Vietnamese heat
- Comfortable seating: Designed for long-distance travel
Pro Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Arrive Early: The departure time was set for 12:30, but I arrived at 12:00 and nearly missed the bus! Always aim to be at least 30 minutes early, if not more.
- Choose Your Seat Wisely: When traveling north to south, opt for a seat on the left side of the bus. This way, you’ll avoid the harsh afternoon sun that can make the right side uncomfortably warm.
- Entertainment: Bring a tablet or smartphone loaded with movies, games, or books to keep yourself entertained during the 18-hour journey.
- Meal Breaks: The bus stopped for dinner around 6 PM, allowing a 30-minute break. I managed to find some vegetarian options and even had an interesting chat with a fellow passenger who happened to be a programmer.
The Journey Experience
As we set off, I spent some time gazing out the window, taking in the passing scenery. I watched a couple of movies on the onboard entertainment system and played some games on my tablet. After dinner, I settled in for the night.
Despite being a bit tall for the birth, I managed to find a comfortable sleeping position with a bit of “bus yoga.” I slept surprisingly well, waking up as we approached Ho Chi Minh City around 4 AM.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the VIP bus experience was much better than I had anticipated. The daytime portion of the journey offered beautiful views of the Vietnamese countryside, while the night-time ride was comfortable enough for a decent rest. The onboard restroom was a game-changer, eliminating one of my biggest concerns about long bus trips.
Ticket Information and Pricing
For those interested in trying this journey, here are the details of my trip:
- Bus Operator: Đình Nhân
- Route: Đà Nẵng – Hội An – Sài Gòn (22P VIP)
- Departure: 12:30 on Aug 23, 2024
- Pickup point: VP Đà Nẵng
- Drop-off point: VP Tân Bình
- Seat: Normal 3B
- Base fare: 750,000 VND
- Trip insurance: 20,000 VND (non-refundable)
- Total cost: 770,000 VND (approximately $31 USD)
Considering the distance covered and the level of comfort provided, I found this to be quite reasonable pricing for the journey from Da Nang to Saigon.
In conclusion, while I still prefer flying for its speed and convenience, I can confidently recommend trying out a VIP bus for long-distance travel in Vietnam. It’s a cost-effective way to see the country and can be surprisingly comfortable. So next time you’re planning a trip between Vietnamese cities, consider giving the VIP bus a chance – you might just enjoy the journey as much as the destination!
