After a short stay in Ho Chi Minh City, en route to Tokyo, I had layovers in Singapore and South Korea as I wanted to experience different airlines and enjoy the various airport lounges. For this portion of my trip I flew with Singapore Airlines in Business Class from Ho Chi Minh City to Singapore.
Additional posts from my whirlwind 8 day tour of Asia:
- Redemption Stories: Maximizing Aeroplan Points and Marriott Bonvoy Rewards for Luxury Travel to Three Countries in Asia
- Lounge Review: Plaza Premium Lounge – Toronto Pearson Airport (International Departures, Terminal 3)
- Flight Review: Etihad Airways Business Class – Toronto (YYZ) to Abu Dhabi (AUH)
- Lounge Review: Etihad Business Class Lounge – Abu Dhabi (Terminal 3)
- Flight Review: Etihad Airways Business Class – Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Singapore (SIN)
- Hotel Review: The Westin Singapore
- Lounge Review: KrisFlyer Gold Lounge – Singapore Changi Airport (Terminal 2)
- Lounge Review: SilverKris Lounge – Singapore Changi Airport (Terminal 2)
- Flight Review: Singapore Airlines Business Class – Singapore (SIN) to Da Nang (DAD)
- Hotel Review: Four Points By Sheraton Da Nang
- Lounge Review: Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge – Da Nang International Airport (Domestic Terminal)
- Hotel Review: Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection – Ho Chi Minh City
Check-In
check-in SQ Counter
I arrived at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport terminal approximately four hours before my 11 pm flight and looked for the check-in counter for Singapore Airlines. Even though the counters were not open yet, the priority boarding lines for Business Class and KrisFlyer elite members were already forming. The check-in staff here were not Singapore Airlines employees but third-party personnel, nonetheless they still made me feel welcome and greeted all waiting passengers with a traditional bow. The check-in counters opened three hours before departure, and after a brief 10-minute wait, I quickly completed the check-in process with the agents. As a Business Class passenger, I was offered three options:
- A voucher for the Le Saigonnais Business Class Lounge
- A dollar value towards the airport’s food court
- A complimentary spa massage at the Sen Viet Spa
I chose the lounge voucher to enjoy the amenities before my flight. After checking in, I went to the immigration line and noticed a monitor displaying the names of passengers who had checked their bags and needed further inspection. They were asked to return to their specific counter. Please be aware of this when you’re at this airport.
Singapore Airlines A350-900
Boarding
After spending some time in the lounge, I went to Gate 17, at the terminal’s lower level to board my flight to Singapore. The boarding process was smooth, starting with group 1 boarding. Onboard, I was warmly greeted by the flight attendant, and assistance was provided to guide me to my seat.
Departure Gate
Business Class Seats
The Business Class cabin on the A350-900 had a 1-2-1 layout, with every seat having direct aisle access. I was seated in 12k, which had a clean and spacious design. The console provided privacy and had a space for drinks and small items. There was also a storage compartment above it with complimentary headsets, 2 USB ports, and an AC port. The lie-flat seat was comfortable and roomy, and the in-flight entertainment screen was a decent size. In front of the console was a coat hanger, storage for the inflight magazine, and a safety guide.
Business Class Cabin
Regional Business Class Seat
IFE and Seat controls
Service and entertainment
The flight experience with Singapore Airlines was exceptional. The flight attendants were attentive, providing refreshing beverages and establishing a warm rapport by personally introducing themselves. They worked together efficiently as a team and took refreshment orders promptly. The complimentary headsets worked well, and the diverse selection of movies and shows catered to various preferences.
Complimentary headphones and ear covers
Business Class dining
I ordered the stir-fried chicken noodle meal, which was served promptly after takeoff. The dinner was delicious. There was a delightful noodle dish and tasty chicken with an Asian salad and a small cake for dessert to complement it.
Wrapping it up
Once again, Singapore Airlines provided outstanding service on my flight even though it was only a brief two-hour hop to Singapore. The efficient team served a hot meal, showcasing the airline’s commitment to excellence on short or long-haul journeys. Choosing Singapore Airlines is a reliable choice for a superior travel experience.