Set Sail on Star Voyager Cruise to Ho Chi Minh | Travelogue

I’ve never planned a vacation this last minute before (booked in May, traveling in June), but after one of my uncles passed away recently, I realized I needed to do something special for my parents, especially for my dad. He hasn’t been able to travel much even when the travel bug kicks in, so since a cruise has been on his wish list, I decided to make it happen. Leave no regrets. Just like you, they dream of seeing the world too.

I found a cruise from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh and back, and since none of us had been there before, it seemed like the perfect opportunity. Even though it’s just a one-day tour, I got to tick something off my travel bucket list. We’ve grown tired of destinations like Port Klang, Malacca or Penang since we visited them years ago. And it turns out the itinerary is only available in June 2025. So, I went ahead and booked balcony rooms for us, hoping for a family trip, but my sister-in-law couldn’t join because of her work schedule. I’ll make sure to plan a proper family vacation for all six of us after this one.

It’s been a while since we last went on a cruise, and since this one lasts 4 nights, I’m wondering if we’ll get bored out at sea before reaching Ho Chi Minh. We can't be eating the whole time, can we? I asked my dad to bring his swimming trunks since he loves to swim. And he did through the days onboard.

Star Voyager with 14 decks, 972 staterooms and a capacity of 1,944 passengers

Even though we stayed in a Balcony Stateroom this time, I didn’t think it was all that amazing. While the balcony was nice for getting some fresh air if I got seasick, the room still felt a bit cramped. On the plus side, they had all the basics covered— toiletries, bottled water, daily cleaning, room service, and even an ashtray for smoking on the balcony. So, there’s no need to overpack for a cruise. We managed just fine with one backpack between the two of us.

Balcony Stateroom at Deck 11 AFT

Another view of Balcony Stateroom at Deck 11 AFT

Naturally, once we got onboard, we had to explore the ship. So after dinner, we took a walk around the other decks to see what kind of entertainment was available. We already had a general idea of what to expect—casino for gambling, live shows, bands, movies, swimming, sunbathing, and more. Since most of the activities were located at the FWD (front) or MID sections of the ship, we had quite a bit of walking to do from our cabin at the AFT (back). It actually made for a good pre-meal walk each day!

Movie by the pool at Deck 12

When it comes to perks onboard, please don't make the same mistake we did, especially if you're booking a Balcony Stateroom or higher. I had come across info about the Dining Credit per cabin per night for Balcony guests, but I didn’t fully understand how it worked until the last night. We decided to skip the included meals, like the International Buffet at The Lido Deck 14 and Northstar Dining Room on Deck 5, and treat ourselves to something different at the Silk Road— a Chinese and Japanese restaurant on Deck 6. 

We were ready to pay out of pocket for a nicer dinner to cap off the cruise. When we got to the counter, the staff asked if we were using our Dining Credits, and I immediately said yes— a little too quickly, it turns out! We sat down and started ordering, but I was still unsure about how much credit we had between the two cabins, so I was cautious with our choices. Turns out, we only used about 50% of our credits, which meant we have $200 worth of credits to eat for free! If we had known earlier, we would’ve splurged on the Western meals, too. So, make sure to double-check what you're actually entitled to! Oh by the way, the food were better at Silk Road. Of course, right?

Chinese restaurant, Northstar Dining Room at Deck 5

Our first dinner onboard the cruise at Northstar Dining Room at Deck 5

Silk Road offers Chinese and Japanese cuisines at Deck 6

(Left to Right): Deep Fried Bean Curd with Minced Pork, and Peking Duck 

(Left to Right): Stir-Fried Duck Meat, and Braised E-Fu Noodles were tasty!

Aside from the day tour in Ho Chi Minh, we spent most of our time watching nearly all the live shows with my parents. When it was just my husband and me, we made the most of our drink package—enjoying drinks non-stop while listening to live bands. He was ordering something every 10–15 minutes, whether it was red or white wine, or a beer. My dad even joined us for a glass—something he does once in a while, and as long as he enjoyed himself, that’s what mattered. Just a heads-up: the onboard service tax is 18%, and all charges are in Singapore Dollars. We settled the bills for both cabins the night before disembarkation.

Unwinding with my husband (and Labubu) to the sound of live bands

Live music with an elderly couple dancing joyfully

Belly Dance Performance at Deck 7 Palm Court

Colour My World Performance at Zodiac Theatre Deck 7

Head over to my YouTube channel to watch the newest video featuring this ship! Or click here. 

SEASICK - DANG IT!

I wasn't expecting a big ship like the Genting Dream which is one of the ships of the same brand, but I certainly didn’t anticipate getting seasick during the journey to Ho Chi Minh and back. Especially that stretch through the South China Sea—ugh! This was my first time dealing with seasickness, despite having cruised several times before. Next time, I'll make sure to check the ship’s route and size beforehand. It was rough, especially after a night of drinking with my husband. I think the management must've anticipated this. My dad overheard other guests asking for seasickness pills at the reception, so we did the same. Anyway, it was free so just take if you don't feel good.

XIN CHAO VIETNAM! 

We set off on a Thursday night and arrived at Phu My Port in Ho Chi Minh on Saturday morning, ready to kick off our Ho Chi Minh Highlights tour. The coach ride from the port to the city took around an hour and a half. For SGD 90 per person, the tour includes a buffet lunch at the Saigon Prince Hotel, entrance fees and round-trip transportation.

SAIGON RIVER

Being the lifeblood of Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon River plays a key role in its history, economy, and daily life. This 256-kilometer long river flows from the mountains of Cambodia, right through the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and eventually emptying into the South China Sea. It offers both a bustling waterway for trade and a scenic backdrop for locals and visitors.

Crossing the Saigon River

INDEPENDENCE/REUNIFICATION PALACE

Built in the late 1960s and a symbol of Vietnam’s turbulent history in the Vietnam War, the Independence Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace) was originally the home and workplace of the president of South Vietnam, Ngô Đình Diệm. The modern building is a striking example of 1960s architecture, blending modernist and traditional Vietnamese elements. 

On April 30, 1975, North Vietnamese tanks famously broke through its gates, marking the fall of Saigon and the official end of the Vietnam War. The event is commemorated at the palace, where you can see the actual tank and a range of exhibits that tell the story of Vietnam's reunification.

Inside the palace, the rooms preserved in their original 1970s style, including the presidential office, the war rooms, and the underground bunker where South Vietnamese leaders once planned military strategies. The palace also has a beautiful garden and a large courtyard, which is often used for events and ceremonies.

Independence/Reunification Palace

Conference Hall

REX HOTEL

Originally built in 1927 as a French colonial-style building, the Rex Hotel has been an important site for both locals and foreigners during the Vietnam War era. It served as the headquarters for the American military and their press corps and its rooftop terrace was famous for being the location where journalists would gather to report on the war at five o’clock and where many high-ranking officials and dignitaries would meet.

Rex Hotel view from the coach

HO CHI MINH CITY HALL

Built between 1902 and 1908 during the French colonial period, the Ho Chi Minh City Hall (also known as the People's Committee Building) not only serves as the headquarters for the municipal government of Ho Chi Minh City, but also a popular tourist attraction due to its architectural beauty and historical significance. The building’s design combines elements of Baroque and Renaissance styles, featuring a grand facade with ornate decorations, a clock tower, and a statue of Marianne, the symbol of the French Republic. Though is not open to the public for tours, visitors are welcome to admire the building from the outside. 

A close-up view of the Ho Chi Minh statue with the City Hall in the background.

FORMER CIA BUILDING

The CIA building in Ho Chi Minh City refers to the former American Embassy, a significant piece of Vietnam War history. One of the most famous landmarks in the city which some refer it as "CIA building" for its role in American intelligence operations during that tumultuous period in history. During the Vietnam War, this building served as the headquarters for the CIA's operations in the South, playing a key role in the conflict. Although today, you won’t find the remnants of CIA operations there, but it’s still a spot of historical significance for those interested in the Vietnam War. 

Another well-known story associated with this building is portrayed in the broadway musical, Miss Saigon. In short, the musical tells the story of a Vietnamese woman who falls in love with an American soldier during the Vietnam War. As Saigon was about to fall to the Vietcong, the soldier escaped via helicopter from the CIA building. The climax of Miss Saigon takes place on the rooftop of the CIA building, where a chaotic helicopter evacuation unfolds. Desperate people struggle to survive—pushing, falling, and scrambling for a spot—while only a fortunate few manage to escape Saigon. Later, the woman travels to the United States in search of him, ultimately dying in his arms. The plot closely parallels the Italian opera Madame Butterfly.

In any case, the tour guide stopped here briefly to give us a quick look at the building before we continued on to the Saigon Central Post Office.

The Former CIA Building in Saigon (at pointed arrow)

SAIGON CENTRAL POST OFFICE

The Saigon Central Post Office is one of Ho Chi Minh City's most iconic buildings, blending colonial French architecture with a touch of Vietnamese charm. The striking features include a large arched ceiling, elegant wooden counters, and intricate details like its mosaic-tiled floor and old-fashioned clock. Inside the building is a massive portrait of Ho Chi Minh as the centerpiece. The space has a timeless, nostalgic feel, with old-fashioned telephone booths and charming souvenir shops lining the interior. Definitely a cultural landmark that reflects the city's colonial past and its evolution into a vibrant, modern metropolis.

A visit to Saigon Central Post Office 

Inside Saigon Central Post Office, we bought fridge magnets as souvenirs.

SAIGON OPERA HOUSE

The Saigon Opera House, a symbol of Saigon's blend of French colonial history with modern Vietnamese is one of the most stunning landmarks in the city. Built in 1897 and is a beautiful example of classical European design with its elegant facade, grand arches, and intricate detailing. Visitors can admire its exterior during the day, but attending a performance can fully experience its interior charm, featuring a plush red-and-gold color scheme, a grand chandelier, and stunning acoustics that make any performance there feel special. Today, it hosts a variety of cultural events, including classical music concerts, ballet performances, and traditional Vietnamese shows. It’s also used for big concerts, theatrical performances, and even corporate events. 

The only regret my dad had was not being able to see the interior of the Opera House, which based on his knowledge of the place was stunning. Indeed. Go search and you will know what I mean.

A glimpse of Saigon Opera House in the coach

BEN THANH MARKET

Here’s a bit of info about Ben Thanh Market, a snapshot of Vietnamese culture and daily life. This is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and has been around since 1914. A bustling and vibrant hub where locals and tourists alike come to shop for a mix of everything—from clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts to fresh produce, spices, and local snacks like cashew nuts and dried jackfruits must buy in Vietnam. The market is also well-known for its coffee, particularly Luwak Coffee and the strong Vietnamese drip coffee that’s a must-try. Get ready for the lively atmosphere, with sellers calling out to passersby and haggling at the stalls being a fun part of the experience. You can try a variety of Vietnamese street food, like pho, banh mi, and goi cuon (spring rolls). Dive into the local atmosphere and enjoy your food at a stall with small chairs as tables and stools, perfect for sitting down and savoring your meal. By the way, I noticed some stalls selling counterfeit luxury bags at the market. There were plenty of Hermes bags and even belts on display. Oops...

Inside Ben Thanh Market

Local food stalls to feast on Pho and Banh Mi

Lots of stalls selling Luwak Coffees

Most common mode of transport: motor bikes

SUPPORT FELLOW SINGAPOREAN

After strolling through the market and picking up some Luwak coffee, we decided to relax at a random cafe for drinks since we still had an hour before meeting up. I spotted a cafe right across from the market and we headed there, not realizing it was owned by a Singaporean retiree in his 70s. As soon as we stepped in, his familiar accent piqued our curiosity, and soon enough, he came over and asked if we were from Singapore. That’s when the conversation about Singapore kicked off. So fellow Singaporeans, if you’re ever at Ben Thanh Market or staying at the Avanti Hotel, be sure to support our fellow Singaporean’s small business there. Whether it's for a dripped coffee or any other drink, I paid just SGD 15 for 4 drinks—pretty reasonable, right? Oh, he blends and sells his own coffee powder, so you can ask him to show you. You can decide if you want to buy from him or from the stalls at Ben Thanh Market. If I remember correctly, he is selling at 350,000₫ per pack.

The V Cafe
Address: 186-188 Le Thanh Tan Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (turn right when exit from Gate 7 of Ben Thanh Market, walk straight and you will see it across the road)

The V Cafe at Avanti Hotel opposite Ben Thanh Market

They only serve drinks so here's the menu.

Dad trying out Filter Black Coffee for the first time.

Some thoughts on filtered/dripped coffee: My dad made a good point about Vietnamese dripped coffee. Instead of purchasing the traditional Vietnamese brewing tool called a Phin, you can also use a traditional coffee cloth strainer or even a silk stocking (丝袜奶茶style) to make the dripped coffee. As long as you're not getting it as a gift or souvenir, the latter method works just fine for personal use. A little tip for all you coffee lovers out there!

As our day tour in Ho Chi Minh comes to a close, let’s take a moment to reflect on the places we visited: 

• the Independence Palace; 
• War Remnants Museum; 
• Saigon Central Post Office; 
• a glimpse of the CIA building, the Saigon River, Hotel Continental Saigon, the Opera House; 
• Notre Dame Saigon (under construction);
• the Rex Hotel;
• Ho Chi Minh City Hall;
• Ben Thanh Market. 

It’s been a visual treat and a collection of unforgettable memories from our time in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.

As we say goodbye to Vietnam, Phu My Port glows beautifully in the night.

After going on cruises like this several times, I've come to the conclusion that it's truly a little slice of heaven for the elderly. Over the four nights onboard, I witnessed just how much joy they found—not just in gambling, but in so many other ways. They danced freely to live music, completely unbothered by any judgmental stares, sang along to familiar tunes, and enthusiastically took part in the Best Dressed contest—even if the prize was just a bottle of red wine. The performances were always packed, and everyone seemed to be enjoying life to the fullest. They ate well, lived well, and truly embraced the cruise experience. I reminded my parents to take a look at others their age, truly enjoying their golden years. I brought them on this cruise because I want them to experience more of what life has to offer, beyond the quiet simplicity of their everyday routine.

At one point, my husband asked if we’d be like them when we reach that age. I laughed and said I’d probably be too shy to dance like that… but who knows? Haha!

Hope you enjoyed this post! Don’t forget to check out my travel videos on my YouTube channel. Stay tune for our Ho Chi Minh vlog, coming up soon! Until the next adventure, signing off for now!

Disclaimer: Not a sponsored post. All the above were paid by the writer. All reviews are based on her preference and do not represent anyone other than herself.