Expert: Martin Bullard - 10/12/2008

Question
Hi Martin,
I travel to SE Asia almost every year and will include a Hanoi to Saigon leg on my upcoming trip. I rarely make any advance reservations because I prefer no schedule but I'm concerned about train accommodations. I'll be arriving around February 10th and am wondering how difficult it will be to buy soft sleeper tickets as I work my way south? I don't think the TET aftermath should be an issue but I think it will be tourist season....should I be concerned about train and hotel availability? Thanks, very much!

Answer
Hi Charlie,
Nice to hear from you.
Yes I think you have good reason to be worried about train tickets -at any time except high summer and especially around Tet. If you are flexible and able to wait a couple of days for the seat/sleeper you want then it should be ok.

Accommodation will be available in the mini-hotel/family run style but if you want something 3 stars and above I'd recommend you book in advance.

If you'd like some more help (to book or get prices) or you have more questions please feel free to write to me directly at martin@tonkintravel.com and I will be happy to answer.

I look forward to hearing from you.



Martin