Hanoi-HCMC rail journey among greatest sleeper experiences

Taking the train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is one of the world's greatest sleeper journeys, according to Canadian travel magazine The Travel.

The train route, linking two of the most crowded cities in Vietnam, came in nineth place in the top 10 Best Sleeper Train Journeys In The World, listed by the magazine.

“Vietnam is a favorite country to visit among backpackers who are traveling around Southeast Asia,” the article read. “Given how long and narrow the country is, a sleeper train is a great way to get from the northern capital of Hanoi to southern Ho Chi Minh City without riding a motorbike.”

According to the U.K.'s comprehensive online travel portal The Travel Magazine, there’s now a tourist trail from one end of the country to the other that can be accomplished with a bespoke travel company. “It’s so relaxed that even the children will love it and with a family of four able to have a noodle dinner for well under £10, the value is remarkable.”

Travelers can also choose to book a single cabin, a twin cabin, a suite, or a grand suite, depending on their budget.

With 23 stations across the country, in addition to Hanoi and HCMC, the route passes a string of Vietnam's tourist attractions, including the historic town of Hue, city of beaches Danang, and Khanh Hoa province, home to many bays and islands.

The Hanoi-HCMC track passes straight through the capital, running just inches from people's homes.

Vibrating with energy, innovation and traffic, HCMC, formerly known as Saigon, is the economic heart of Vietnam and the main hub of the southern region. The city’s must-see attractions include Reunification Palace, Ben Thanh Market, and twin-spired Notre Dame Cathedral, all in District 1.