Spent $7,300 to Experience Vietnam’s First 7-Star Luxury Train
After leaving my position at the U.S. Foreign Service, I traveled extensively on luxury trains worldwide. My 8-day journey aboard Vietnam’s 7-star train marked my first foray into high-end travel in this country.
Exploring Vietnam in Style
I’m Peggy Gennatiempo, a resident of Seattle, Washington, with a 26-year career as a U.S. diplomat. My assignments took me across Europe and Latin America, allowing me to master Italian and Spanish, which made international travel more accessible. Stepping outside the U.S. has always thrilled me, offering the chance to explore new lands, experience diverse cultures, visit historic landmarks, and savor local cuisine. These travel experiences profoundly shaped my worldview and interactions with others.
The SJourney luxury train, Vietnam’s first 7-star service, launched on December 18, 2024. I was fortunate to be among its first passengers during the inaugural journey from December 18–25. This 8-day, 7-night adventure from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi was a luxurious introduction to the country’s rich culture, history, and scenic beauty.
A Memorable 7-Night Journey
The train’s design evokes the elegance of 1930s French Indochina, blending vintage aesthetics with modern comfort. My itinerary included stops in Phan Thiet, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hue, Quang Binh, and Ninh Binh, each offering carefully curated experiences.
On the first evening
The journey began with a celebratory launch in Ho Chi Minh City. Passengers dressed in their finest to mark the occasion.
Day 2: Phan Thiet
We explored Tà Cú Mountain and the Linh Sơn Trường Thọ Pagoda before visiting a fish sauce museum to learn about this staple of Vietnamese cuisine. The day concluded with a beachside lunch and an exhilarating ride across the White Sand Dunes in an open-top jeep.
Day 3: Nha Trang
I was captivated by the serene charm of a local fishing village, where I observed fishermen repairing nets and children walking to school. Later, we visited the Nha Trang Cathedral and attended a coastal cooking class, preparing dishes like papaya salad, spring rolls, and bơ lá lốt (beef wrapped in betel leaves).
Day 4: Hoi An
We rode vintage jeeps through rice paddies and water buffalo pastures before arriving at a woodcarving studio. Guided by an expert craftsman, I carved a small wooden bird as a keepsake. A traditional farm lunch and a tranquil lantern-floating experience on the Hoai River were the day’s highlights.
Day 5: Hue
We explored the royal history of Hue on a Vespa, visiting the Imperial City and the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc. Dressed in regal-inspired attire, we enjoyed a royal banquet accompanied by live traditional music. The day ended with a flower-making workshop in Thanh Tien Village and an intimate music performance at Bến Xuân Garden House.
Day 6: Quang Binh
The train took us to Thọ Lộc Station, where we ventured into the magnificent Paradise Cave within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The evening included a barbecue and cooking class with a Napa Valley chef, capped off with singing and dancing at the station.
Day 7: Ninh Binh
Cycling through picturesque countryside, we visited Thái Vi Temple before enjoying a serene sampan ride through Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The farewell dinner took place at the historic Đinh and Lê Temples, enhanced by live performances and art demonstrations.
Room for Improvement
While the journey was remarkable, there’s room for refinement. The itinerary was packed with activities that could be physically demanding for some travelers. While I appreciated the dynamic schedule, others might prefer a more relaxed pace. Offering alternative options for less active guests could enhance the experience.
Additionally, the pricing—$7,320 per passenger in 2024, increasing to $8,610 in 2025—might be steep for some. Offering more customizable packages could broaden the train’s appeal.
A Journey Worth Remembering
Every destination revealed a new side of Vietnam’s beauty, from tranquil fishing villages in Nha Trang to the stunning caves of Quang Binh. Each day offered meaningful encounters and unforgettable moments, making the SJourney train an exceptional introduction to luxury travel in Vietnam.
