First off, it was a joy to be able to check in my luggage and get my Cathay Pacific boarding pass at the Macau Ferry Terminal. That means no need to retrieve and re-check in my luggage after the hour long ferry ride to the Hong Kong International Airport.
And upon arrival at the Ho Chi Minh City airport, I discovered the privilege of being part of ASEAN for the very first time. Separate queues! Gasp, us passport holders of ASEAN countries actually get dedicated lanes Wow. Yipppeee. What joy!
But what impressed me most was the airport. It was cleaner, newer and more efficient than several airports that I've been to. Such as they who shall not be named.
Several of the older hotels have also been well preserved over the years, such as Hotel Continental and Hotel Majestic where I am staying at. Am so glad now that we couldn't get rooms at the Sheraton where our event is taking place. The service here was so excellent and personalized. Plus the hotel is so much more charming and beautiful. Think Raffles Hotel but more authentic.
My room overlooks the Saigon River but with the trees and electricity cables blocking the view outside the balcony, I have yet to discover how and why it is such an attraction.
Got a little lost searching for Lemongrass, a restaurant recommended by the hotel staff, but we finally find it tucked away in a little lane just opposite Gucci at the Sheraton. Needless to say, food was yummy.
And how can a girl not be distracted by the pretty wares for sale along the streets? Am quite certain that I overpaid for this shawl at US$14 but I was too lazy to haggle or think about it. Seriously, I hate to bargain. Since I like the colour and it's not too expensive... I just don't want to see the same thing selling for US$2 or US$5 at another spot in HCM...
Labels: travel
