BY JARED DILLINGHAM
Vietnam Airlines operates Lotus Lounges at various airports in Vietnam and also at a few international destinations.
These photos are from a Lotus Lounge at SGN (the airport in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam).
In general, Lotus Lounges are designed with a focus on Vietnamese culture and aesthetics. Passengers will find a small but welcoming atmosphere, with traditional Vietnamese décor and food.
The Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge
Lotus Lounge Locations
There are two Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounges in the international terminal at SGN (Ho Chi Minh City’s airport).
- Domestic Flights: Floor 2, near Gate 1
- International Flights: Floor 2, near Gate 20
- International Flights: Floor 3
Vietnam Airlines’ Lotus Lounges are at the major airports in Vietnam, including Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), and Da Nang International Airport. Additionally, travelers will find a Lotus Lounge in a few international airports, such as Suvarnabhumi Airpor in Bangkok and Charles de Gaulle in Paris.
Lotus Lounge Access
Access to the Lotus Lounge is typically granted to passengers traveling in Business Class or Premium Economy Class on Vietnam Airlines. Other elite frequent flyer members, such as SkyTeam Elite Plus members, are also given access.
The rules can change, but currently Delta passengers with Gold, Platinum, or Diamond SkyMiles status all have access to the Lotus Lounge.
When you check-in for your flight, the staff will print you an “invitation” to take to the Lotus Lounge.
Lotus Lounge Amenities
The Lotus Lounge has a pretty front desk area, with staff who can assist with any travel needs or questions.
You’ll find several seating areas in the Lotus Lounge at Ho Chi Minh City’s airport.
There are bigger chairs for relaxing, and rows of seats at desks for working.
The list of amenities is pretty standard.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi (good speed)
- Food
- Open bar with wine and beer
- Business rooms
- Showers
- Newspapers/magazines
- Staff to assist with travel.
The “Business Center” is a row of alcoves, each with a desk and chair. Some have computers, while others have printers.
Lotus Lounge Food
The food options at the Lotus Lounge aren’t extensive, but they’ll have options for all travelers.
There’s usually a bowl section, where you can prepare a noodle soup to your liking.
The SGN Lotus Lounge will also have fruits, salads, and a variety of small sandwiches and bites.
The coffee and tea area will have hot beverages ready to pour, and also a machine for fancier coffees like cappuccinos and lattes.
The beer and wine section is part of a small open bar. They usually have a few wine options from Australia and Chile. There are a few liquors you can mix with on the bar, too.
It’s self-serve.
Ho Chi Minh City’s SGN Airport
Here is some general information about Tan Son Nhat International Airport:
- Location: Tan Son Nhat International Airport is located in Tan Binh District, approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) north of the city center of Ho Chi Minh City, making it easily accessible from the city.
- Transportation: A taxi ride could take as little as 15 minutes from the central part of Saigon (District 1). It’s important to leave early, since traffic is hectic and unpredictable. The cost for a taxi ride might be less than $10 US (230,000 VD). Alternatively, hotels might charge $20 USD (475,000 VD) for a van shuttle to the airport.
- Terminals: The airport has two main terminals:
- Domestic Terminal: This terminal primarily handles domestic flights within Vietnam.
- International Terminal: This terminal is used for both international arrivals and departures.
- Airlines: Tan Son Nhat International Airport serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights. It is the busiest airport in Vietnam and is served by numerous airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, and international carriers from various countries.
- Facilities and Services: The airport offers a range of facilities and services to passengers, including:
- Duty-Free and Shopping: There are duty-free shops, souvenir stores, and various retail outlets within the terminals.
- Dining: Numerous restaurants and cafes offer a variety of dining options, including Vietnamese cuisine and international fast food.
- Currency Exchange: Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available for currency exchange and banking services.
- Transportation: Tan Son Nhat Airport is well-connected to the city center by taxi and shuttle bus services. It’s also possible to rent cars or use ride-sharing services.
Vietnam Airlines
Vietnam Airlines is the national flag carrier of Vietnam. It was founded in 1956 as Vietnam Civil Aviation, and it became Vietnam Airlines in 1993. The airline has grown over the years to become one of the leading carriers in Southeast Asia.
The headquarters of Vietnam Airlines is in Hanoi.
Vietnam Airlines operates a diverse fleet of aircraft, including the Airbus A320, Airbus A350, Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and others for both short-haul and long-haul flights.
Vietnam Airlines offers a comprehensive network of domestic and international routes. Domestically, it connects major cities in Vietnam, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and others. Internationally, the airline serves destinations in Asia, Europe, Australia, and the Americas. Some popular international routes include flights to Paris, Seoul, Tokyo, and Sydney.
SkyTeam Alliance Membership:
Vietnam Airlines is a member of the SkyTeam alliance, which includes various global airlines like Delta and Korean Air. This membership allows passengers to enjoy benefits such as code-sharing, lounge access, and frequent flyer program partnerships.
Frequent Flyer Program:
Vietnam Airlines operates a frequent flyer program called “Lotusmiles,” which rewards loyal passengers with miles that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other benefits.
Check out more posts about visiting Vietnam & Southeast Asia!