Vietnam has made a groundbreaking decision that promises to revolutionize travel across the country. On November 30, 2024, the National Assembly approved a $67 billion high-speed rail project connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), a move set to dramatically reduce travel time between the two bustling cities.
Currently, the journey between the capital and Vietnam’s southern economic hub takes around 30 hours on the Reunification Express. The new high-speed rail, however, will complete the same distance in just five hours, a significant leap forward in efficiency. The project is expected to span across 23 stations in 20 cities and provinces, improving connectivity across the country and benefiting both business and tourism sectors.
This high-speed rail line comes at a time when air travel between the two cities is already one of Southeast Asia’s busiest routes, with Hanoi-HCMC consistently ranking among the top 10 in terms of passenger volume. As a result, an efficient rail alternative is expected to be a welcome development for travelers seeking convenience and affordability.
Construction is set to begin in 2027, with completion slated for 2035, barring any delays. While the wait may be long, Vietnam’s plans for the rail project signal a future where cross-country travel is faster, easier, and more accessible than ever before.
For those eager to visit Vietnam in the meantime, there are plenty of attractions to explore, including the country’s top island destination, Phu Quoc, among other must-see locations.
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