"I booked a ticket immediately after the news on this international train being released," said Thanaphong Khadram, 28, who traveled with friends. "It's a fantastic trip with convenient cross-border services and wonderful views along the route."

He planned to spend a night in Vientiane for the weekend getaway and return on Sunday on train No 134 from Khamsavath station back to Bangkok.

Thanaphong has a bigger plan to visit China by train in the near future. "I'd love to go to Shanghai and Kunming. The former represents modernity, while the latter is my dream destination that I've heard a lot about it, such as its nice weather, delicious cuisine and amazing natural scenery," he said.

A welcoming ceremony was held in Vientiane on Saturday for passengers of train No 133. At the event, Daochinda Siharath, managing director of Lao National Railway Authority, said the service will enhance connectivity and foster closer ties between Thailand and Laos.