From Cebu to Saigon: What It’s Like Taking the First Direct Flight

You know that mix of excitement and sleepiness when you’re at the airport past midnight? That was the vibe when we boarded the very first direct flight from Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City via Philippine Airlines. It felt like we were part of something new, even if we were mostly just trying to stay awake.

Touchdown in Vietnam (And Straight to Bed)

We landed around 1 AM, and Saigon greeted us with warm air and quiet streets. Justine, our local guide, was waiting and made the whole arrival feel super smooth. Within the hour, we were checked into the Ramana Hotel and basically passed out. No exploring yet—just sleep.

Day One: Saigon in Pastels and Postcards

The next morning, breakfast gave us a real intro to Vietnamese flavors—strong coffee, tropical fruits, and of course, pho. It’s a great way to wake up.

First stop: the Pink Church (Tan Dinh Church). And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like—a bright pink cathedral that looks like it belongs on a cake. Totally Instagram-worthy.

Next up, the Central Post Office. Sounds boring, but it’s not. Think French architecture, vintage vibes, and yes, it’s still an actual post office. 

Right outside, someone was selling fridge magnets and little souvenirs like it was the most normal thing ever. It was weirdly charming.

The Independence Palace came after that—calm, historical, and kind of heavy. It’s not flashy, but it leaves an impression. We walked by the Opera House too, didn’t go in, just admired it. Not every place needs a deep dive.

We ended the afternoon with coffee at King Koi. Not because we needed it, but because sometimes sitting down with a drink is the best part of the day.

Day Two: Chaos, Coffee, and Rooftop Views

Saigon wakes up early. By the time we got to Ben Thanh Market, it was already buzzing. Think narrow aisles, bargaining everywhere, and food smells hitting you from all sides. We picked up some snacks, fruits, and “authentic” Vietnamese coffee (we’ll see how authentic it tastes at home).

We picked up some snacks, fruits, and “authentic” Vietnamese coffee (we’ll see how authentic it tastes at home).

Later, we took one of those open-top double-decker buses. Touristy? Sure. But it’s actually a chill way to see the city without walking miles. Old buildings, motorbike mayhem, French balconies, street vendors—it’s all there, layered on top of each other.

Our last stop of the day was the Coffee Apartment. It’s this old apartment block where each floor is a different café or little shop. Honestly, we could’ve stayed all afternoon just wandering, sipping drinks, and taking in the view.bargaining voices, bright fruits, and heat. It was chaos, but never unkind.

The Dinner Cruise

As the sun dipped low, we headed for the Saigon River and boarded a dinner cruise. The boat wasn’t flashy, but the vibe? Perfect. Warm breeze, city lights reflecting off the water, and a buffet full of local dishes we didn’t even try to pronounce right.

Live music played in the background—nothing too loud, just enough to make it feel festive. Watching the city glide by from the river, with a plate of Vietnamese food in hand and good company around the table? That was a core memory kind of moment.

Day Four – The Departure

In the earliest hours of May 5, we were back at the airport. PR588 waited silently on the tarmac. Takeoff came without fanfare, but my heart felt heavy—like leaving someone you just got to know.

The flight home was quiet. Sleep eluded most of us. Maybe it was the thrill of the past days still echoing, or maybe it was the sense that something important had just started.

More Than a Flight: A Gateway

This trip was about more than miles. It was about bridging cultures, reducing distances, and redefining what’s possible. With this new direct route, Philippine Airlines has done more than connect two cities. It has opened a door.

For the people of Cebu, Vietnam is no longer a distant idea—it’s a weekend away. A food trip. A solo adventure. A first-time journey. A return.

And the airline? It offered more than transport. It gave us an experience wrapped in care, thoughtfulness, and ease.

If you’re still wondering where to go next—don’t overthink it. Vietnam isn’t just worth the trip. It’s now within reach.

Let Philippine Airlines take you there. And let Saigon meet you with open arms.