Why Not Fly? The Case for High-Speed Rail from Hanoi to Saigon
Faster Than a Plane? A Different Perspective on Travel Time
Traveling from Hanoi to Saigon? Most people immediately think of flying. Why bother with a high-speed train, even if it could whisk you there in just 5.5 hours?
But consider this: the Shanghai-Beijing high-speed rail covers 1200km in a mere 4.5 hours. A Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City route is 1700km, making a 6-hour journey feasible. Imagine leaving Hanoi at 11 am and being able to enjoy an early evening with friends in Saigon.
The Hidden Time Cost of Air Travel
Let's break down a theoretical 11 am flight. You need to arrive at least two hours early for security, check your luggage, and boarding. The flight itself is another two hours. And if you have checked baggage, in my experience, getting into a taxi at the airport usually takes at least an hour. That's already five hours, assuming everything goes smoothly with no delays or other issues. For distances around 1000km, flying isn't necessarily the most optimal choice.
The Reliability and Convenience of High-Speed Rail
High-speed trains, on the other hand, are known for their punctuality. I've noticed that even a minor delay of a minute or two seems to prompt the driver to accelerate (or so I imagine) to ensure arrival at the destination station on time, or even slightly ahead. Train fares also tend to be more stable, without the surge pricing often seen during peak travel periods. You can often buy a ticket just moments before departure and still make your train with time to spare.
The Scenic Route: A Personal Preference
Personally, for trips under 1500km with a pre-set schedule, I will always favor high-speed rail. I find the sensation of takeoff on an airplane somewhat unpleasant. And there's nothing quite like enjoying the stunning scenery along our country's railways.
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