Direct Flights to Vietnam: Advantages and Disadvantages

In this post, I review these positives, as well as the few negatives to direct flights to Vietnam.

Direct flights to Vietnam: Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages of Direct Flights to Vietnam

There are many advantages to taking direct flights to Vietnam when traveling. 

1. Direct flights to Vietnam are shorter.

Since direct flights to Vietnam go directly from the origin airport to the destination airport, without any intermediate stops or any connections between the two cities, it is generally the shortest path. By flying the shortest flight distance, that typically also means the shortest flight time. Further, without a connection, there is no waiting around for the intermediate flight to board making the overall trip duration less.

2. Less chance of complications.

When multiple connections are involved, there is always some chance that the first flight might get delayed and arrive late, possibly causing the traveler to miss the second, connecting flight. Knowing I need to catch a connecting flight always seems to add additional stress to the first flight. With a nonstop flight, once that flight is on it’s way, you can be pretty sure the next stop is your final destination. Also, knowing my checked in bags don’t have to make a connection / less handling involved also gives additional piece of mind.

Downsides of direct flights to Vietnam.

1. The airfare can be more expensive.

Since many people prefer direct flights to Vietnam, there is often more demand for these flights, which can cause the less expensive seats to sell out fast, leaving higher prices seats, and possibly raising the costs of the flight to most travelers. It can be hard to find cheap direct flights to Vietnam or deals on such flight tickets due to this higher demand.

2. Fewer times and flight choices.

There are often not too many direct flights to Vietnam. Thus making direct flights to Vietnam more harder to find than a connecting flight. Also, with fewer direct flights to Vietnam, that often means less flight time choice. So if one needs to depart or arrive at a certain time of day, sometimes the direct flights to Vietnam might not fit that schedule.

3. Less choice in airline.

While many airlines maintain extensive networks of airports they serve, most do not have direct flights to Vietnam. Instead, they might rely on hub airports, or other connecting intermediate airports to get travelers from their starting airport to their destination airport. So, if going for a nonstop flight ticket, one has to sometimes put aside airline / frequent flyer miles preferences and go with whatever airline offers direct flights to Vietnam.

Despite the challenges to direct flights to Vietnam, I have generally found that their advantages far outweigh their disadvantages and I try to fly direct flights to Vietnam when possible. Still, there are many factors to weigh when choosing a flight, and informative sites such as this one can hopefully make that choice easier. 

Direct Flights to Vietnam Vs Stop Over Flights to Vietnam

The differences between direct flights to Vietnam and stopover flights to Vietnam. Things you can count on with both types of flights.

There are many advantages and disadvantages to direct flights to Vietnam. Many people prefer direct flights to Vietnam so as the time factor is less. For those of us out there trying to save a buck or two, lay over flights  to Vietnam are more tempting. This is an attempt to show you all the relevant pros and cons of direct flights  to Vietnam and stopover flights to Vietnam. 

Direct flights to Vietnam Vs Stopover Flights: Pros and Cons

Direct flights to Vietnam are in general easier. They take less time, your luggage is at less of a risk to get lost, and you are all around less stressed. Direct flights to Vietnam are also alarmingly more expensive than stopover flights. Cost can be as much as double, but some believe the cost is worthwhile. 

Stopover flights to Vietnam, as a rule, are more hectic. You get off the first plane and need to locate the next gate. Then it is waiting time. More often than not, one of the flights will be late and you will not make your destination on time. Flights to Vietnam with layovers are usually a lot less expensive. Is the discount worth it? 

As a person who does not enjoy flying, I will always try for a direct flight to Vietnam. The fewer times that I have to deal with take-off, the happier I am. I will gladly pay a higher cost to be there quicker without hassle. If my stomach only has to go through turbulence once, it is worth the higher ticket cost. 

Now, for others this case is not true at all. Smokers especially like layovers flights to Vietnam because it is a chance to stop halfway and get nicotine. Some people like layovers to relax in the airport, have lunch, freshen up, or make phone calls. Still there are others who are just too cheap to pay for the extra cost for direct flights to Vietnam. 

In conclusion, it is personal preference as to the decision of direct flights to Vietnam or stopover flights. Many people have there own reasons to choosing a specific flight. But, for less time and hassle while spending more money direct flights to Vietnam when available are a good choice. Either way you fly, airports are a hectic scene and should be taken lightly. 

Flights Vietnam: Best Places

Vietnam is as vast as it is diverse and with so many amazing places to see it's hard to choose which are the essential must-see's. To help you make this tricky decision, we've listed some of the best places to visit in Vietnam below... Book your flights Vietnam today to explore this beautiful country.

Halong Bay

Flights Vietnam (Ha Long Bay)

Halong Bay is the jewel in Vietnam’s scenic crown. Widely considered to be one of the natural wonders of the world, this UNESCO World Heritage listed region is simply breathtaking. Thousands of karst limestone and jungle covered peaks and isles, rise dramatically out of the emerald waters of the bay. On the famous islands of Halong Bay, caves, hidden coves and beautiful beaches await discovery and the towering peaks provide some of the best rock climbing in South East Asia. The ideal way to explore Halong Bay is onboard a traditional Junk boat which can either be privately chartered or shared. Enjoy a cruise on a Junk and explore remote offshore islands, kayak and swim in the warm waters and capture an incredible sunset over a panorama of peaks.

Saigon/ Ho Chi Minh City

Flights Vietnam (Sai Gon)

Saigon or formally Ho Chi Minh City is the vibrant, cosmopolitan hub of Vietnam and the original ‘Pearl of the Orient’. In this thriving metropolis, old and new collide. Gleaming sky scrapers, expensive restaurants, bars and designer shops, stand in stark contrast to the ancient pagodas, colonial era landmarks, ramshackle markets and wandering monks. Saigon is a feast for the senses, fast paced, colourful, loud and utterly mesmerising. Whilst it hurtles head first into the 21st Century, Saigon is a city with a compelling and unforgettable history. Key sites such as the historic Reunification Palace, the Revolutionary Museum and the War Remnants Museum provide a fascinating insight into the Vietnam War and the historic fall of Saigon in 1975. 70kms north west of the city, the historic Cu Chi Tunnels which played such a vital role in the war, are another highlight.

Hoi An

Flights Vietnam (Hoi An)

UNESCO Listed Hoi An is a former merchant trading post, famed for its beautifully preserved architecture, ancient cobbled streets and picturesque riverside location. The influence of past traders from Japan, China and Europe is evident in Hoi An, whose backstreets are lined with large, attractive merchant houses and pagodas. Today, Hoi An is awash with art stalls and markets, fabulous restaurants and cooking schools, not to mention streets literally lined with tailor-shops, all catering for the town’s thriving tourist trade. Nevertheless Hoi An still manages to retain its traditional character and charm and with pedestrian streets devoid of the usual cacophony and chaos of traffic, Hoi An’s quiet and relaxed pace of life adds to its effortless appeal.

The Mekong Delta

Flights Vietnam (Mekong Delta)

The Mekong Delta in south-east Vietnam is one of the world’s greatest river regions. The delta is a hive of activity and serves as a crucial transport and agricultural hub. Known as the ‘rice bowl of Vietnam’, it has lush rice paddy fields and colourful fruit orchards, enchanting villages and bustling floating markets. Life thrives on the delta, which is home to hundreds of species of animals and fish, not to mention its human inhabitants. Maintaining a very traditional way of life, the locals have adapted well to life on the water, travelling, fishing, trading and even sleeping on their sampans and boats. Discover the magic of the Mekong Delta aboard a traditional sampan boat or travel in comfort on an overnight ‘Bassac’ rice barge cruise and barter at the floating market in Can Thou.

Hanoi

Flights Vietnam (Ha Noi)

Known as the ‘Paris of the Orient’, Hanoi is the gracious capital and cultural heart of Vietnam. Located on the northern Red River Delta, Hanoi is dotted with scenic lakes and leafy boulevards. It is a city of fascinating contrasts - where Parisian chic meets Asian vigour. Brightly coloured pagodas and crumbling 11th century buildings, stand alongside modern high rises and grand French colonial style villas. Locals practice graceful tai chi in the parks, whilst cyclos and mopeds weave dangerously through city streets. Age old customs are retained in the winding streets and alleys of the Old Quarter and the city’s French colonial legacy remains evident. The pace of life in Hanoi is much more relaxed that frenetic Ho Chi Minh in the south and whilst it has developed over recent years and embraced tourism, it retains a refreshing ‘old world’ charm.

Mui Ne & Phan Thiet

Flights Vietnam (Mui Ne)

Mui Ne is a beautiful beach resort built around a charming fishing village. The sea-front resorts are low-rise with landscaped gardens, making Mui Ne a developed yet attractive beach complex. With a reputation as the adrenaline capital of southern Vietnam, Mui Ne is a popular surf destination between August and December when the waves arrive, while the gales from October to April attract the wind and kite surfers. The famous red and white sand dunes are a perfect photo opportunity as the changing winds sculpt the vivid sands while for the more adventurous sand-sledding is possible. A scenic trek to Fairy Spring follows the stream from the sea all the way to its source, while the 9th century Cham tower affords sweeping views of Mui Ne town.

Sapa

Flights Vietnam (Sapa)

Located 1500m above sea level, Sapa is a former French hill station, nestled in the rugged Tonkinese Alps and surrounded by lush valleys and verdant rice paddy fields. Here, farmers in conical hats plough the fields with water buffalo and local ethnic minority groups (such as H'mong and Dzao) maintain their age old traditions and way of life, including their own language and wearing intricately embroidered traditional clothing. Sapa is an overnight train journey north west from Hanoi, into the mountains near the Chinese border. Cooler than the city, Sapa is ideal for hiking in pristine scenery and visiting the ethnic minority villages. Depending on your fitness level you can arrange anything from gentle walks to challenging hikes.

Best places to visit in Vietnam: Our pick #8 - Con Dao Island

A chain of 15 islands and islets, Con Dao is one of Vietnam’s star attractions. With stunning deserted beaches, coral reefs, scenic bays and thick forests, the islands are the perfect place to sit back and relax or make the most of nature with trekking through mangroves, diving around the islands and wild-life watching. 80% of the islands’ land mass forms the Con Dao National Park which protects sea turtle nesting grounds. Nesting season is from May to September and visitors can spend a night at a conversation site on one of the islands to see the turtles in their natural habitat. Con Son island is the main hub and has so far avoided mass tourism making it a relatively untouched paradise with access to the surrounding islands and their idyllic beaches.

Nha Trang

Flights Vietnam (Nha Trang)

Considered to be the beach capital of Vietnam, Nha Trang is famed for its sweeping stretch of beautiful beach with offshore islands adding to the appeal. The turquoise waters offer fantastic diving opportunities while the imposing mountains that loom over the city make for a stunning setting. The beachfront offers plenty to keep visitors entertained with various parks and sculpture gardens, high rise resorts, stylish restaurants and sophisticated bars. With its coastal location, the city, unsurprisingly, has a wealth of seafood dining options. Nha Trang is something of a party town with great nightlife though for those who prefer a little culture, century-old Cham towers still stand in the centre of town.

Flights Vietnam: Places to Retire

According to several reports published in magazines and newspapers, Vietnam is one of the best places to retire not only in Asia but in the world! Vietnam, along with Thailand and Malaysia is often counted as the most amazing place to spend the retirement years in. The criteria which is used to select the best places to retire include the reasonable cost of living, opportunities for growth and available physical and social activities etc.

Flights Vietnam gradually became a hot top thing to do for nationals of countries like US and Australia. With this rise and growth of tourism, many individuals have decided to spend the years of retirement in Vietnam. Infact, the weather, the cost of living, entertainment, sights and high interaction with locals make Vietnam perfect for retiring.

Reasons to book flights Vietnam for retirement

The fact that a person can lead a comfortable life for $500 per month in this country makes it an affordable place to retire. In this price, you can get a nice house, decent food and enough entertainment. Another factor that adds to the suitability of Vietnam as a retiring destination is its climate. The climate of Vietnam is such that you do not need to add layers to your clothing.

One can suffice in a tee and shorts all year round. The hotter temperatures can be dealt with easily and there is no humidity in the air. The social life in this country is amazing and even for expats. If you want to find company, you will be able to do so very easily as the locals are friendly and helpful.

Best Places in Vietnam from the Retirement Points of View

The following is a list of the best places in Vietnam where one can retire comfortably:

Nha Trang

Flights Vietnam for retirement (Nha Trang)

Kiplinger recently put Nha Trang at the 6th position of the list of the best places to retire in Vietnam. Nha Trang is a beautiful city which offers a wonderful landscape, awesome climate and friendly locals. The fact that the cost of healthcare is low and there is a new and modern hospital opened up in this city recently makes it a good choice for many people looking to retire.

Additionally, the low food cost and a variety of food options like fresh fish, vegetables herbs and fruits adds to the suitability of Nha Trang as a retirement destination. Food here is cheap and therefore dining out too doesn’t cost heavily. Some other factors include cheap accommodation, cheap tours and beautiful beaches.

Hoi An

Flights Vietnam for retirement (Hoi An)

Hoi An is another beautiful place where one can retire and lead a peaceful and comfortable life. It has stunning architecture and a vibrant culture which attracts many people from across the world. It is easy to live in Hoi An as it has a lovely climate all year round and consists of pristine beaches where you can enjoy the rest of your life at. The local people are friendly and the cost of living here is definitely under $1000. Moreover, Hoi An is a food paradise where sea food and vegetables are cheap and in abundance. Due to this reason, eating out doesn’t cost heavily and adds to its retirement possibilities for foreigners.

• Rent: $55
• 0Groceries: $100
• Electricity: 50
• Water and gas: $20
• Cable and internet: $40
• Entertainment: $240
• Total: $1000

Phu Quoc

Flights Vietnam for retirement (Phu Quoc)

Phu Quoc is an island which lies in the very south of Vietnam and is an ideal destination to retire in Vietnam. This place consists of wonderful beaches and one example of this is the Bao Sao. The cost of living at this island is quite affordable and this is one of the greatest reasons why one must consider this place of Vietnam as a retirement option. Seafood here is cheap and so is buying vegetables and fruits. So if you wish to retire at a place close to the beach and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle then PhuQuoc is surely a good choice.

Apart from these three places, there are several others in Vietnam which can be looked out for retirement. If you are not too tight on the budget then you can also consider booking flights Vietnam for retirement in the larger cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City which are rich in terms of culture, entertaining places, restaurants, cinemas etc.

Flights Vietnam: Top Sites in Vietnam

Vietnam has some amazing sites to see. It is one of our favorite countries that we have ever visited.  We spent 30 days in Vietnam and it was barely enough time to see everything that this diverse nation has to offer.  From great natural wonders to fantastic shopping, mountain adventures and chilling beach life, Vietnam has something to offer for everyone.

Once you get passed aggressive nature of the touts on the street, it can be a wonderful and fulfilling travel.  The people will soon win over your hearts and it will become one of your top travel destinations like it is ours.

Here are a few of our favorite things that we did after our flights Vietnam.

View Incredible Ha Long Bay

Flights Vietnam (Ha Long Bay)

Ha Long Bay is definitely the number one attraction on any one’s list of sites to see in Vietnam.  Located about 165 km East of Hanoi on the Gulf of Tonkin.  It is a spectacular destination.  You can book a two night, 3 day cruise from Hanoi at any hotel or hostel.   Tours range in price but start at $80 per person and rise drastically for more luxurious cruises.

Halong bay consists of almost two thousand islands.  Giant limestone karst formations just out of the sea for as far as the eye can see.  You will witness this natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Sight up close and personal from your wooden cruise liner.

Relax on the top deck of your beautiful Junk Boat.  A classic Chinese sailboat made of teak, as the crew prepares your dinner.  You won’t go hungry out on the water, a feast of seafood, fresh vegetables and traditionally Vietnamese dishes awaits you. You will be served breakfast, lunch and dinner while enjoying local beer and wine.

See Spetacular Sapa

Flights Vietnam (Sapa)

Located in the North West Corner of Vietnam, Sapa is a must for anyone wanting to add a little adventure into their travels while in Vietnam.  Book a tour from Hanoi, or catch a train north to Lao Cai and find a guide to take you deep into the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range.  Sapa has become a little overcrowded with tourists, but if you book a multi-day trek to stay in a home stay with one of the ethnic minority peoples, you will get a feel for traditional life and will be far enough away from the hustle and bustle of Sapa for an authentic experience.

The giant rice terraces cascade down the mountains as the sun reflects in their pools of water.  You will trek right on the ledge of these terraces following your guide through every corner where it feels as if you are in the middle of a National Geographic issue.  The days are physical as the climbs are steep, but you will be rewarded with a feast of rice and vegetables, meats and stews at the end of the day as your hosts prepare dinner over an open fire.

Buy a New Wardrobe in Hoi An

Flights Vietnam (Hoi An)

Ever wanted an Armani suite or designer dress?  Or are your tastes more practical and you are looking for trekking pants or a new shirt?  Hoi An is a town in Central Vietnam that attracts tourists for its tailor made clothing.  Even if you think that you don’t need a new wardrobe, once you arrive at this picturesque town on the South China Sea, you will be drawn into the excitement of shopping for quality clothing at extremely discounted prices.

You can’t help but buy an item or two.  The talented seamstresses will have you measured and sized up in an instant.  Just be sure to ask for double stitching. Otherwise your clothes won’t last to the next city.

The best thing about Hoi An is that even if you are backpacking through Asia, you can send your clothes home from the post office in town and they will keep your measurements on file for when you are ready to order more!

Cu Chi Tunnels

Flights Vietnam (Cu Chi Tunnels)

Agent Orange, napalm and constant bombing wiped out the jungle during the Vietnam War but it is now lush and green and Vietnam is capitalizing on tourism. The Cu Chi Tunnels are the most fascinating historical site of Vietnam.   Over 250km of tunnels weave their way underground and they were the key component in winning the war.

Most Guides are former soldiers that fought on these very grounds and they will tell you in intimate details of how the Vietnamese outwitted the Americans while living right under their noses.  Entrances were camouflaged by termite hills, cayenne pepper was sprinkled around to confuse the scent dogs and breakfast was cooked in the morning mist so that the smoke from their fires could not be detected.

If you are feeling adventurous, you can go into the original entrance and crawl through 150 metres of a tiny, dark and damp tunnel. If you are in the Saigon Area, make sure you go to see the Cu Chi Tunnels,

Mekong Delta

Boat on River of Mekong Delta

Flights Vietnam (Mekong Delta)

Trips to the Mekong Delta can be booked from Ho Chi Minh City and it is definitely worth the trip.  This is the part of Vietnam that everyone envisions when they picture the country.  Hundreds of tributaries make their way through thick jungle.

You will explore the Mekong area by tour boat, traditional rowboat and minibus.  The highlight of the trip is a visit to the famous Cai Be floating market. Hundreds of boats line the harbor filled with fruits and vegetable waiting to be sold.  You will also walk through villages and markets, cross canals on traditional bamboo bridges and visit rice paper mills and sample coconut candy and rice wine.

The Mekong Delta tours can be a little touristy, but it is worth the visit to explore the backwaters of this famous area of Vietnam.

Mui Ne

Flights Vietnam (Mui Ne)

It isn’t as popular as Na Trang, but Mui Ne is a beautiful beach area perfect for relaxing after the Chaos of Ho Chi Minh city.  Located North East of Saigon on the South China Sea, Mui Ne has everything for beach lovers and adventurers alike.  Perfect conditions allow for great kite surfing.  Be sure to take a lesson however as this adventure sport can be dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing.

There are some amazing sites around the  area such as the incredible sand dunes and red rock.  You can take a tour that includes a visit to the fishing village and walk on the dunes and a stop at the famous red rock and fairy stream.

If adventure is not what you are into, relax on the white sandy beach and enjoy a massage by ladies with bionic hands.

All of these sites are stops on the Vietnam tourist bus that travelers can buy open tickets from Saigon to Hanoi or vice-versa.  Tourist can buy a one month ticket with hop on hop off privileges to take their time exploring the country from North to South.  Price is approximately $32 US dollars giving you the freedom to enjoy the countries top attractions at your leisure.

With so many amazing sites to see in Vietnam, you will need at least 30 days to explore the country properly