The best part about the train ride was the rhythmic, lulling click-clack of the train heading down the tracks. Perfect for sleeping. The worst part was the 23:00 wake up to get off the train with all our bags for the Chinese border post inspection. We managed to get back to sleep again just in time for the 01:30 wake up to get off the train with all our bags for the Vietnamese border post inspection. Arrived Hanoi early morning, having slept less than we’d expected.
AsianSpring 
That sounds like one heckuva train trip! Can you post some pictures?
The best part about the train ride was the rhythmic, lulling click-clack of the train heading down the tracks. Perfect for sleeping. The worst part was the 23:00 wake up to get off the train with all our bags for the Chinese border post inspection. We managed to get back to sleep again just in time for the 01:30 wake up to get off the train with all our bags for the Vietnamese border post inspection. Arrived Hanoi early morning, having slept less than we’d expected.