Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh is Vietnam’s busiest airport and is currently operating beyond capacity, having served over 32.5 million passengers last year. This figure is comparable to the number of passengers handled at Bogota’s El Dorado Airport in Colombia. Notably, the Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh route ranks among the top 10 busiest passenger routes globally!
The airport is situated 6 km (4 miles) from City District 1, featuring two terminals, one for domestic flights and another for international traffic, the latter having undergone recent renovations. The walking distance between the two terminals is no more than 10 minutes.
My Experience Arriving (Domestic Terminal): T1
I had researched public transport options online, as I generally prefer to avoid taxis whenever possible. I identified two choices: Bus Number 152 and Bus 109, so I was ready to board the first one available! Upon arrival, I encountered friendly staff and decent facilities, including an information counter, post office, and foreign exchange. While I didn’t spot any restaurants, it could be due to my focus on finding directions to my bus.
The baggage claim and arrival process was swift, likely due to arriving from Hanoi with no documents to be checked. I arrived at the domestic Terminal 1 and followed the signs leading to the bus area, essentially just exiting the main door, crossing the street, and there it was easy-peasy! The first bus that arrived was the 109, and it cost me 20,000 Dong, equivalent to £0.67 or 2600 Colombian pesos, affordable, isn’t it? This service maintains a decent standard and even provides free Wi-Fi on board.
The journey to my bus stop took 40 minutes, and with the assistance of Google Maps, I could easily identify where to alight.
My Experience Departing (International terminal): T2
This time, to reach the airport from Cuchi, I opted not to take the bus. To ensure timeliness, I chose an Uber taxi, which cost me 119,000 Dong, equivalent to £3.90 or 15,600 Colombian pesos. As I was departing to Siem Reap in Cambodia, it was an international flight from Terminal 2. I had some time to explore the facilities, which included a range of small cafes and fast-food kiosks with reasonable prices, along with a baggage storage area.
I efficiently checked in my bag at the counter and was on time. Subsequently, I proceeded through customs and immigration, and this too was a straightforward process. Despite needing a visa for Cambodia, the on-arrival procedure was easy. Travelling light pays off! as it allows me to navigate airport processes quickly (on the downside, limited options in my clothing!).
While some people in forums seem to complain about this airport, I found it rather easy to navigate. It has undergone recent renovations, giving it a modern, clean, and spacious appearance. Despite being one of the busiest airports in Asia, I didn’t experience any prolonged waiting pains.
My Airport Rating: (1*-5*)
- Airport Facilities ****
- Friendliness of airport staff ****
- Signs ****
- Passport Control *****
- Cleanliness *****
“An airport carpet can tell you everything about its surroundings”
😊
Love from Jenny
Jenny Sky Is The Limit 
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