Originally Posted by
80proofGalleyCart
The "like" is for the data point, not for the experience you had to endure. That completely sucks.
1.5 to 3 hours as the "new normal" for arrival/departure immigration at SGN is going all kinds of viral on social media. The Fast Track providers may be chortling thinking this will drive more business their way, but it's equally likely to have the broader knock-on effect of diverting passengers to other destinations where there is a clear definition of who is and who is not entitled to the priority immigration lane -- the obfuscation of which they directly profit from.
Absolutely - though, to be frank, the Fast Track providers should do a better job at marketing themselves as I would have likely paid 25 to 50 USD in an official manner to skip that line once faced with it. There was no real signage and no “staffers” telling people where to go or what their options were.
As for returning, yes, absolutely, I’m less inclined to visit places a second time that have the level of hassle at Immigration (I had a similar experience in Jordan 2 years ago and would think long and hard before returning). I’m laughing in advance at how my Singapore immigration experience is going to go on my next stop - a world of difference.
Edit to Add: I am aware of the proximity to Tet, which could contribute to the crowds, but my other line mate, a woman from Hong Kong, told me that the lines are “always like this.” So, take that with what you will :-)