Lao girl takes "noble" train in Vietnam, surprised with 180 degree rotating seat

(Dan Tri) - Maysaa (Laotian) had an enjoyable trip on the luxury Hoa Phuong Do train from Hanoi to Hai Phong.

After finishing her master's exam at the National Economics University, Maysaa (real name Maysaa Bouavone Phanthaboouasy, born in 2001, Lao nationality) boarded the Hoa Phuong Do train to Hai Phong city, participating in activities to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Hai Phong Liberation Day (May 13, 1955 - May 13, 2025).

Maysaa has taken trains many times in Vietnam, but this is the first time she has experienced a luxury train.

Maysaa and friends boarded a luxury train to Hai Phong (Photo: Character provided).

"I bought a first-class ticket. The fastest train runs at 60km/h, departing from Hanoi at 3:15 pm and arriving in the port city after 3 hours," said the Laotian girl.

As soon as she stepped on the train, Maysaa felt the cleanliness and luxurious interior. The Hoa Phuong Do train has VIP cars, first class cars and economy class cars.

Trying out the VIP cabin, Maysaa was amazed by the hotel-like interior, fragrant fresh flowers and a small bar. The floor is paved with natural wood with 16 single sofas and 5 long sofas (equivalent to 20 seats). The restroom is carpeted with plastic, and the walls are covered with marble-patterned plastic, creating a luxurious feel.

Close-up of the VIP compartment inside the Hoa Phuong Do train (Photo: VR).

The VIP car is designed in the style of French aristocratic architecture. Passengers can watch musicians perform and use free wifi.

In first class, the seats are divided into 2 rows. Notably, the seats in this compartment can rotate 180 degrees for sightseeing.

"I never thought passengers could adjust their seating position like this on the train. This type of seat allows passengers to have a direct view of the street outside," Maysaa said.

The seats in the first class compartment can rotate 180 degrees to enjoy the view, which Maysaa enjoys (Photo: Character provided).

Special class tickets (VIP cars) cost 250,000 VND/ticket during the week and 300,000 VND/ticket for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Passengers in this car are served a free drink.

First class tickets with 56 seats, weekday fare is 150,000 VND/ticket, weekend fare is 180,000 VND/ticket. Economy class tickets have weekday fare of 105,000 VND/ticket, weekend fare is 130,000 VND/ticket.

Clean, airy space on the train (Photo: VR).

Impressed with many delicious dishes

Arriving at Hai Phong station, Maysaa felt the familiar atmosphere, because she loved this city and had many memories here. During her time studying at university in Quang Ninh, the girl born in 2001 went to Hai Phong to film a video about her culinary journey.

"Hai Phong is a dynamic and bustling port city but not too crowded. I like the people here because they are open-minded and the cuisine is diverse and rich," Maysaa said.

Arriving at the port city on a special occasion, the Laotian girl was impressed by the red flag with yellow star flying everywhere. People were excited to organize cultural and artistic activities.

Joining the crowd in Hai Phong to watch the fireworks, Maysaa was delighted by the enthusiasm of the local people. Recognizing the famous girl on social media, the locals handed Maysaa a flag, everyone sang amidst laughter and lively music.

"I no longer think of myself as a tourist, but as part of a big family enjoying that happy moment," she shared.

In the port city, Maysaa was welcomed by Meritorious Artist Quang Thang's family and invited to dinner with rustic dishes such as roast pork, crab soup, pickled vegetables...

During that meal, the male artist introduced the beauty of Hai Phong. In particular, Maysaa was surprised to know that on May 13 - the anniversary of Hai Phong Liberation Day - families and neighborhoods all organized very lavish meals to create a happy atmosphere and strengthen solidarity.

"The atmosphere celebrating Hai Phong Liberation Day was very bustling, I felt like everyone was preparing to celebrate Tet," Maysaa confided.

Lao girl was invited to dinner at home by Meritorious Artist Quang Thang's family (Photo: Character provided).

The second time returning to the Red Flamboyant City, the Laotian girl expressed her special love for the cuisine here. Many dishes are made from fresh seafood, with unique flavors that she will never forget such as: Bean sprouts, crab rice noodles, crab spring rolls, jellyfish salad...

"People here love to eat bread. They have many ways to make this dish, but my favorite is banh mi canh. The more you eat, the more addicted you become," Maysaa confided.

Due to her studies, Maysaa has now returned to Hanoi and will make another appointment with Hai Phong to explore the city, contributing to spreading the image of the culture, cuisine and people here.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/du-lich/co-gai-lao-di-tau-quy-toc-o-viet-nam-bat-ngo-voi-ghe-xoay-180-do-20250516075447935.htm