One of the first things I noticed when checking in at the Sofitel Saigon Plaza was the smell of jasmine. I am a fan of the fragrant flower, partly because it smells so good and partly because, like other tropical flowers, it reminds me that we have arrived in an exotic place.
Flowers appear to be a strong symbol here in Southeast Asia. Disembarking the one-hour Thai Air flight from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City this morning, I noticed flight attendants distributing orchids to first-class passengers. My daughter was greeted with roses (by our escort and guide for the week). Like the Hawaiian lei, flowers evoke a feeling of welcome.
Bathed in the smell of jasmine, the Sofitel Saigon Plaza is exceptionally welcoming. We were welcomed by attractive young girls in traditional Vietnamese dresses. One of them led us to the Club Sofitel Lounge on the 18th floor, where we checked in. The Club floor overlooks the city and is also where we’ll have evening hors d’hoeuvres and, before setting out to Le Marguerite tomorrow, breakfast.
This afternoon, we head out for a city tour. We’re certain to see more flowers.
