A Journey from Toronto to Ho Chi Minh City: A Traveler's Experience

Introduction

Traveling from Toronto, Canada, to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is an adventure that combines long-haul flights, cultural discoveries, and exciting new experiences. In this blog, I will detail my journey from the moment I booked my ticket to my exploration of Ho Chi Minh City, covering airline services, accommodations, and my overall travel experience.

Booking My Flight

My journey started with choosing the right airline. There are no direct flights from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), so I had to decide on a layover city. After careful research, I shortlisted the following airlines:

Air Canada (via Hong Kong or Taipei)
Cathay Pacific (via Hong Kong)
Korean Air (via Seoul)
Japan Airlines (via Tokyo)
Qatar Airways (via Doha)
Emirates (via Dubai)

I eventually opted for Korean Air due to its reasonable price, excellent reputation, and smooth layover at Incheon International Airport (ICN). The flight was priced at around $1,200 CAD for an economy-class ticket, with a total travel time of approximately 21 hours, including a 3-hour layover in Seoul.

Flight Experience with Korean Air

My flight experience with Korean Air exceeded expectations. Here’s a breakdown of my journey:

Boarding in Toronto

Check-in at Pearson Airport was smooth, with no significant delays. Korean Air’s staff was courteous and professional, ensuring that all passengers had a comfortable experience. Boarding was well-organized, and I was seated in a spacious economy-class seat with ample legroom.

In-Flight Service

The cabin crew provided exceptional service. Within an hour of takeoff, we were served a meal that included a choice between Korean bibimbap and Western-style chicken with pasta. I opted for the bibimbap, which was flavorful and came with clear instructions on how to mix it properly. Drinks, including wine and juice, were provided generously throughout the flight.

Entertainment & Comfort

Each seat had an entertainment system with a variety of movies, TV shows, and music. The noise-canceling headphones provided made watching movies an enjoyable experience. The seat was reclinable and comfortable for sleeping, and the blankets and pillows provided were cozy.

Layover in Seoul

Arriving at Incheon Airport, I had three hours to relax. The airport had plenty of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, rest areas, and excellent food options. I enjoyed a quick bowl of hot Korean ramen before heading to my connecting flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Final Leg to Ho Chi Minh City

The second flight was shorter (about 5 hours), and the experience was just as comfortable as the first leg. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, immigration was smooth, and my baggage arrived promptly.

Purpose of My Trip to Ho Chi Minh City

The primary reason for my visit was a mix of business and leisure. I had meetings scheduled with local partners for an upcoming project, but I also planned to explore the city’s culture, food, and attractions.

Accommodation: Choosing the Right Hotel

After researching accommodations, I decided to stay at The Reverie Saigon, one of the top luxury hotels in Ho Chi Minh City. My selection criteria included:

Location: Convenient access to District 1, where most business meetings and tourist attractions are located.
Comfort: Spacious rooms with modern amenities.
Service: Highly rated staff and facilities.

Upon arrival, I was welcomed with a refreshing drink and warm hospitality. The room had a breathtaking view of the Saigon River, and the hotel’s facilities, including the rooftop pool and spa, were outstanding.

Exploring Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a rich history and an exciting culinary scene. My itinerary included:

Day 1: Business Meetings & First Impressions

The first day involved business meetings in District 1, where I met with local entrepreneurs to discuss potential collaborations. Between meetings, I explored the city’s coffee culture at The Workshop Coffee, a famous specialty coffee shop known for its artisanal brews.

Day 2: Discovering Historical & Cultural Landmarks

I dedicated the second day to exploring historical sites:

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon – A stunning French colonial-era cathedral.
Saigon Central Post Office – Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this building is a masterpiece of colonial architecture.
War Remnants Museum – A sobering yet important museum that provides deep insights into the Vietnam War.
Ben Thanh Market – A great place to shop for souvenirs and experience local street food.

Day 3: Food Adventure & Nightlife

Vietnamese cuisine is one of the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City. I enjoyed:

Pho 2000 – Famous for its delicious beef pho.
Banh Mi Huynh Hoa – Serving one of the best banh mis in the city.
Secret House Restaurant – Offering authentic Vietnamese home-style meals.

In the evening, I visited Saigon Skydeck for a panoramic view of the city and later explored Bui Vien Street, a lively nightlife district full of bars and live music.

Day 4: Exploring the Mekong Delta

I took a day trip to the Mekong Delta, about two hours from the city. The tour included:

A boat ride along the river
Visiting coconut candy workshops
Cycling through local villages
Trying fresh tropical fruits

The experience was serene and provided a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.

Day 5: Last-Minute Shopping & Departure

Before leaving, I visited Takashimaya Saigon Centre for some last-minute shopping and enjoyed a relaxing massage at L’Apothiquaire Spa before heading to the airport.

Reflections on My Trip

My journey from Toronto to Ho Chi Minh City was an unforgettable experience. From excellent airline service to luxurious accommodation and vibrant city exploration, every aspect of the trip was enriching. Ho Chi Minh City’s dynamic energy, friendly locals, and incredible food make it a top destination for both business and leisure travelers.

For anyone planning to visit, I highly recommend embracing the local culture, trying new foods, and taking the time to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. Vietnam’s warmth and charm will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.