An Unbelievable Deal to Southeast Asia: My Initial Reaction

Alright, travel enthusiasts, listen up! I just stumbled across a deal so fantastic, I had to share it with you immediately. We’re talking roundtrip airfares from Los Angeles (LAX) to Hanoi, Vietnam (HAN) on ANA All Nippon Airways, one of the world’s most highly regarded airlines, starting from just $699! Yes, you read that correctly. Given the typical cost of flights to Southeast Asia, especially on premium carriers like ANA, this is an absolute steal. My jaw literally dropped when I saw this, and I immediately started checking dates to see if I could snag a trip for myself.

Diving into the Details: What Makes This Deal So Special

So, what’s the catch? Honestly, there isn’t one that I can see. The availability appears to be quite broad, covering travel dates from August to November 2025. That provides a significant window to plan your trip and take advantage of this incredible fare. Now, of course, these deeply discounted fares won’t last forever. They’re subject to availability, and airlines can pull them at any time. Therefore, if you’re even remotely considering a trip to Vietnam, I urge you to act fast. I want you to be sipping pho on the streets of Hanoi without having to worry about how much your flight cost!

Let’s break down what makes this deal exceptionally appealing. First and foremost, we’re talking about ANA, a consistently top-rated airline known for its exceptional service, comfortable cabins, and reliable operations. Flying with ANA means you’re getting a superior travel experience compared to many other airlines operating on this route. Think wider seats, better in-flight entertainment, and more attentive service. For a long-haul flight like this, those factors can make a huge difference in your overall comfort and enjoyment.

Secondly, the price point is simply unbeatable. Typically, roundtrip flights from the West Coast to Southeast Asia on reputable airlines hover well above the $1,000 mark, often closer to $1,200 or even $1,500, depending on the time of year. Finding a fare under $700 is incredibly rare, especially on an airline of ANA’s caliber. This allows you to allocate the savings to other aspects of your trip, such as accommodations, tours, delicious Vietnamese cuisine, or even extend your stay.

How to Find and Book These Fares: A Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, so how do you actually find and book these magical fares? There are several approaches I recommend. Firstly, I always start with Google Flights. It’s my go-to tool for searching airfares because it allows you to easily compare prices across multiple airlines and travel dates.

To use Google Flights effectively, enter Los Angeles (LAX) as your departure city and Hanoi (HAN) as your destination. Then, use the calendar view to explore dates between August and November 2025. Google Flights will highlight the days with the lowest fares, making it easy to identify the dates that work best for your budget and travel plans.

Next, select your desired dates and make sure the airline displayed is ANA. While the search results might show other airlines, you want to specifically look for itineraries operated by ANA to ensure you’re getting the premium experience we’ve been discussing.

Once you’ve found the flights you want, Google Flights will typically provide a link to book directly on the ANA website. I almost always recommend booking directly with the airline. This simplifies any potential changes or cancellations and provides a direct line of communication should any issues arise.

Another option is to use online travel agencies (OTAs) such as Expedia or Priceline. However, I generally prefer booking directly with the airline whenever possible. While OTAs can sometimes offer slightly lower prices, the potential hassle of dealing with a third party in case of flight changes or cancellations often outweighs the small savings.

Maximizing Your Rewards: Which Credit Cards to Use

Now, let’s talk about how to maximize your rewards when booking these flights. This is where your travel credit cards come into play.

First, consider using a credit card that offers a bonus on travel purchases. Many cards offer 2x, 3x, or even 5x points/miles on travel expenses, including airfare. I personally lean towards using my Chase Sapphire Reserve for airfare because I love that it earns 3x Ultimate Rewards points on travel and dining. The Ultimate Rewards program offers fantastic flexibility, allowing you to redeem points for travel through the Chase portal, transfer them to various airline and hotel partners, or even redeem them for cash back (though I don’t usually recommend that last option).

Alternatively, if you have an American Express Platinum card, you could use it to earn 5x Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with the airline or through Amex Travel. The Membership Rewards program is another highly valuable program with a wide range of transfer partners.

In addition to earning bonus rewards, consider using a credit card that offers travel insurance and other valuable protections. Many premium travel credit cards offer trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and even rental car insurance. These protections can provide peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. I have definitely been saved a few times when I booked with a card offering these travel protections.

Moreover, some credit cards offer benefits such as access to airport lounges, priority boarding, and free checked bags. While these benefits might not directly reduce the cost of your flight, they can significantly enhance your overall travel experience. I always try to use a card that gives me lounge access because I love being able to relax somewhere quiet while I wait for my flight.

Planning Your Trip to Hanoi: A Few Quick Tips

So, you’ve booked your flights, congratulations! Now, let’s briefly touch upon planning your trip to Hanoi. Hanoi is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture. Here are a few quick tips to help you get started:

* Visa: Check the visa requirements for Vietnam based on your nationality. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa online. I always recommend checking the most up-to-date information on the Vietnamese embassy’s website. * Accommodation: Hanoi offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. The Old Quarter is a popular area to stay, as it’s centrally located and offers easy access to many of the city’s attractions. I prefer staying in boutique hotels to immerse myself in local culture. * Things to Do: Hanoi is packed with things to see and do. Some of the must-see attractions include Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Water Puppet Theatre. Don’t forget to wander through the Old Quarter and soak in the atmosphere. * Food: Vietnamese cuisine is incredibly delicious and affordable. Be sure to try local specialties such as pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwiches), and egg coffee. I love trying new restaurants and street food vendors! * Transportation: Getting around Hanoi is relatively easy. You can use taxis, ride-hailing apps, or even rent a motorbike. However, be aware that traffic can be chaotic, especially during peak hours.

Don’t Delay: Act Now!

This deal to Hanoi on ANA is simply too good to pass up. Flights this cheap on a carrier of this quality are rare, so if you’re even considering a trip to Vietnam, I highly recommend booking your tickets now. By leveraging the tips I’ve outlined, you can not only score an incredible deal on airfare but also maximize your credit card rewards and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. Happy travels, everyone! I hope to see you all exploring the streets of Hanoi! I can already imagine myself enjoying a bowl of pho while planning my next travel adventure!