Embarking on the journey from Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC/ Sai Gon) to Da Lat city proved to be an incredibly comfortable experience, and the VIP bus ride was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our trip! My excitement was palpable on the morning of December 19th as the hot Thursday sun bore down on us. Eager to escape the heat, my boyfriend and I had already booked our bus tickets to Da Lat, with just an hour to spare after his arrival in Ho Chi Minh City. We hastily devoured our lunch before making our way to the bus station at Le Hong Phong in District 5. I’d even pre-ordered our lunch to save time!
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But why Da Lat, you might wonder?
Da Lat, nestled in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, offers a refreshing mountain escape known for its cool climate, breathtaking natural beauty, and exceptional coffee. With my boyfriend’s limited time off, we had just three days to make the most of his visit, and Da Lat easily outshone neighboring cities like Vung Tau, Mui Ne, and the Mekong Delta.
The city was a mere 8 hour bus ride away, and once there, we had a meticulously planned two-day itinerary filled with adventures unique to this picturesque region.
Booking the bus was a breeze
At 12:15 PM, we arrived at Le Hong Phong bus station, conveniently located 15 minutes from the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Our bus was scheduled to depart at 1:00 PM, and we were punctual, following the guidelines on our ticket. Booking our tickets online was a seamless process; we simply provided our departure and arrival details and selected the preferred mode of transport.
Opting for the VIP limousine bus offered seemed like the perfect choice, given its positive reviews. After making the online payment, I received a confirmation email within a day, leaving us with the simple task of packing our bags!
Once at the station, we presented our Bookaway ticket on our smartphones to the reception staff, who then provided us with printed tickets and noted the bus number. Now, all that remained was to wait. Despite some language barriers, the instructions were clear enough for us to understand.
The bus station, though modest in size, could comfortably accommodate around 20 people. As it was full, we found ourselves waiting outside in the sun, where stalls offered iced coffee and snacks for our journey. The team regularly checked our tickets to ensure we didn’t miss our bus. When a small minivan arrived, we assumed it was the bus we would board at the station, but to our surprise, it wasn’t.
The minivan transported us just a short 5-minute ride to where the actual bus was parked on a random street’s sidewalk. This was a substantial bus, featuring individual cabins for each traveler. Upon boarding, we were struck by the impressive interior, resembling a capsule hotel.
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An unparalleled bus experience
The cabins were extraordinarily comfortable, offering privacy with curtains and fully reclining seats that transformed into beds. Pillows for headrests, longer pillows for side sleepers, and blankets to ward off any chill were all thoughtfully provided. You could also control the cabin’s air conditioning, and there were reading lights, charging sockets for your devices, curtains for the windows, and ample storage space for your belongings, food, and beverages. Complimentary water bottles and refreshing cold towels further added to the luxury of the journey.
The roads leading to Da Lat are nothing short of stunning
The bus ride was incredibly comfortable. My boyfriend and I occupied lower bunks and, at the start of the journey, engaged in a fun question-and-answer game inspired by the Book of Questions. It was an excellent way to pass the time during long-distance travel with a partner. The scenery passing by was mesmerizing, prompting us to frequently gaze out of the windows. The first leg of the journey featured urban landscapes and traffic, but as we ventured farther, the landscape transitioned through various shades of green and brown, with mountains appearing on the horizon.
A couple of hours later, fatigue set in, and we decided to rest for the remainder of the journey. Keep in mind that the road to Da Lat involves winding routes through the mountains, so expect some gentle swaying within your cabin. Nonetheless, the drivers ensured a smooth ride. The journey was relatively long, but there were two stops along the way for restroom breaks and snacks.
These mid-journey pit stops are common for buses traveling the Da Lat-Ho Chi Minh City route, allowing passengers to make friends with fellow travelers. Be sure to sample a noodle or rice dish and stock up on snacks for the remainder of the ride. The stops typically last around 20 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy a meal in comfort.
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Arriving late in the evening
Our arrival in Da Lat occurred around 9:00 PM. The Da Lat bus station was quite spacious, but we were in a hurry to reach our hotel due to the late hour, so we didn’t explore the station. Fortunately, we didn’t need to worry about arranging transport to our hotel, as the company had a shuttle service waiting for us, providing exceptional convenience. Within half an hour, we arrived at our homestay, where we were warmly welcomed with a steaming bowl of noodles (much appreciated on a chilly night) and enjoyed a meal with the friendly homestay owners. A good night’s rest and two days of adventure awaited us!
Other way by private Car from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat
Da Lat, often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring,” is a picturesque highland destination in Vietnam. If you’re looking to escape the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and explore the cool, refreshing landscapes of Da Lat, a private car journey is an excellent option. Here’s a guide on how to make this comfortable and scenic trip:
The Route:
The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat covers approximately 300 kilometers and typically takes around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way. The route takes you through scenic landscapes and winding mountain roads, providing opportunities for breathtaking views.
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Booking a Private Car
- Select a Reputable Provider: Start by choosing a trustworthy transportation provider or travel agency. Read reviews and verify their credentials to ensure a reliable and safe journey.
- Choose the Right Vehicle: Private car options may include sedans, SUVs, and larger vehicles like vans or minivans. Select a vehicle that suits your group size and preferences.
- Advance Booking: It’s recommended to book your private car in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This secures your chosen vehicle and ensures a smooth journey.
Benefits of a Private Car:
- Comfort: Private cars offer a comfortable and spacious environment, allowing you to relax throughout the journey. You can adjust the climate control and enjoy the ride in tranquility.
- Flexibility: Private car travel allows you to customize your itinerary. You can make stops for sightseeing, taking photographs, or enjoying local cuisine. This flexibility is especially advantageous for exploratory travelers.
- Scenic Beauty: The route from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat is known for its stunning landscapes. Traveling by private car ensures you can fully appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
- Privacy: If you’re traveling with family or friends, a private car offers privacy and exclusivity, making it ideal for group trips.
Cost of private car to Da Lat
The cost of a private car from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat can vary depending on the type of vehicle you choose and the provider you select. On average, you can expect to pay between $120 to $200 for this journey. Prices may be slightly higher during peak tourist seasons.
Safety and Comfort Tips
- Ensure your driver is experienced and familiar with the route.
- Always wear your seatbelt for safety.
- If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider carrying motion sickness medication.
- Confirm that the vehicle is equipped with air conditioning to maintain comfort during the journey.
- Communicate with your driver regarding any planned stops for meals, restroom breaks, or sightseeing.
Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat by private car offers a relaxing and picturesque journey. It allows you to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and embrace the cool, tranquil ambiance of Da Lat. Enjoy the comfort, privacy, and flexibility of a private car as you explore the stunning landscapes along the way.
By Piumi Rajapaksha
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