Back in January, I decided to treat myself to a quiet week in the sun in Singapore.
For this trip, I redeemed 80,000 Delta SkyMiles for a one‑way Business Class ticket — a pretty reasonable rate.
This routing via Ho Chi Minh City gave me the perfect excuse to try Vietnam Airlines and enjoy a proper layover long enough for a shower and a relaxed connection.
Flight routing
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CONNECTION
Right after stepping off the long‑haul from Paris, I followed the International Transfer signs.
We were clearly among the first passengers of the morning: the security staff were just starting their shift, the atmosphere was relaxed, almost sleepy.
The X‑ray machine was a bit temperamental, but the process was surprisingly smooth.
No need to remove liquids or electronics — the agent barely glanced at the screen.
A stress‑free connection, which is rare enough to be appreciated.
LOUNGE
The signage to the Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge is clear, and the place is nearly empty at this early hour.
The lounge feels like sitting inside a giant sunroom: extremely bright, with sunlight pouring in through huge windows. Thankfully, the air‑conditioning keeps everything comfortable.
The staff are genuinely lovely, attentive without being intrusive.
Before grabbing breakfast, I headed for a shower — basic, almost spartan, but very effective. Exactly what you need after a long overnight flight.
Not very hungry, I went for a simple Western breakfast, though the buffet also featured Korean‑style instant noodles — proof that K‑culture has infiltrated every corner of Asia.
A nice view of the tarmac and a calm atmosphere made it a perfect pre‑flight break.
BOARDING & CABIN
I wandered through the duty‑free shops without buying anything. The terminal was packed, people everywhere.
Just before boarding, gate change — apparently a common occurrence at SGN, where aircraft seem to shuffle between stands frequently.
Despite the chaos, the ground staff handled priorities properly, which is always appreciated.
I settled into seat 2A on this 15‑year‑old Airbus A321 (VN‑A323), choosing the window to enjoy the view and maybe catch a nap.
A glass of champagne arrived immediately — a good start.
The seat definitely shows its age, but for a short regional hop, it’s perfectly comfortable: lumbar support, leg rest, decent recline…
Honestly better than many European “Business Class” products where the middle seat is simply blocked.
The cabin was completely full, and my seatmate fell asleep within seconds and didn’t wake up until landing.
INFLIGHT SERVICE
Once airborne, the flight attendant listed the meal options. Still half‑asleep, the only words I caught were “chicken noodles.”
So chicken noodles it was — and they were perfectly fine for a short flight.
Service was attentive and warm, and the white wine was poured generously. Vietnam Airlines definitely doesn’t ration alcohol.
A short nap after the meal, and we were already starting our descent.
ARRIVAL
We landed ahead of schedule under bright sunshine.
The aircraft parked at a remote stand — very remote — so a bit of walking and a monorail ride were needed to reach the arrivals hall.
Automated immigration took just a few seconds.
Bags arrived quickly, with priority respected overall. I noticed the “fragile” sticker added in Paris was indeed on my suitcase, just as the check‑in agent had promised.
A cheap Grab ride later, I was at my hotel in the early afternoon.
