Flying to Vietnam soon? Here’s an unbiased travel guide from a real Vietnamese traveler — starting with the best (and worst) ways to get there. From rave-worthy Korean Air to why Hawaiian Air is a hard no for me, here’s how to survive the flight and hit Hanoi and still feeling human.
It’s been a hot minute since I last went back to Vietnam. Like everyone else these days, I did my homework — endless TikToks, YouTube vlogs, Instagram “hidden gems.” Everyone’s got an opinion about where to go, what to eat, and what’s “so aesthetic.”
But let’s be real — half the content online is polished highlight reels. What I found on the ground was way more real, sometimes chaotic, and full of unexpected gems. In this series, I’m unpacking my 10-day trip through Hanoi, Sapa, Saigon, Da Nang, and Hoi An, showing you what’s actually worth your time, what’s overhyped, and what surprised me most.
But first, let’s talk about the part everyone forgets to mention: getting there.
Korean Air: The Airline That Wouldn’t Stop Feeding Me
If travel had Michelin stars, Korean Air would have one. No exaggeration — they wouldn’t stop feeding us but I am not complaining.. From bibimbap bowls with full hot rice portions to mid-flight “hot pocket” snacks and dessert rounds, the food was so good I forgot I was on an airplane.
And the service? Polite, graceful, and so efficient. Every passenger got:
- A soft throw blanket
- Comfy slippers
- Snacks and bottled water
The plane was clean, spacious, and smelled fresh — a big win when you’re 30,000 feet in the air. The newer aircraft have leather seats that feel upscale, and the in-flight entertainment had everything — from Marvel movies to K-dramas.
By hour seven, I was full, cozy, and surprisingly content. This post is not sponsored by Korean Air but as of the date of this post I would definitely recommend flying with this airline if you are traveling to Vietnam.
Pro tip: Their economy class feels like other airlines’ premium. 100% worth it.
The Comparison Game: Who Wins the Sky Battle
Singapore Airlines:
I didn’t take them this time, but they’re just as stellar.
Hawaiian Air:
Now let’s talk about the opposite end of the spectrum. I’ve flown Hawaiian once, and unless you enjoy leg cramps and existential crises, just… don’t. The seats are cramped, the cushioning is nonexistent, and you’ll spend 10 hours negotiating with your spine. If you must fly them, bring sleeping pills — it’ll be less painful.
The Route: LAX → Incheon → Hanoi
We flew from LAX to Incheon (Seoul), then connected to Hanoi. It’s honestly one of the smoothest international transfers you can make.
Incheon International Airport is next-level — think luxury mall meets zen garden. It’s spotless, easy to navigate, and somehow relaxing. The signage is crystal clear, and even the bathrooms are spa-grade.
The best part? Zero delays.
Even during typhoon season, when other flights across Asia were being canceled left and right, ours were on time. We landed in Hanoi with no chaos, no missing luggage, and all our sanity intact.
Flying to Vietnam doesn’t have to be a survival mission. Pick the right airline and you’ll start your trip rested, fed, and maybe even inspired.
- Korean Air: 10/10 would fly again.
- Singapore Airlines: Still elite.
- Hawaiian Air: Bring meds or bring regrets.
Next stop — Hanoi, where scooters outnumber people and every street corner smells like heaven.