I want to travel from Mexico City to Hong Kong. There are two flights routes I’m looking at, either transiting in LAX (3.5 hours) or YVR (2.5 hours). Prices are more or less the same for both. Which one should I choose?
I’m neither an American nor Canadian, but I am eligible for the ESTA and eTA, if that matters.
YVR.
You have to collect and recheck your baggage on international connections in the US; international arrivals going to international destinations don’t have to do this in YVR.
The customs experience is more straightforward as you will only be transiting through and not entering Canada. The U.S. doesn’t make this distinction and all passengers arriving have to be cleared to enter the U.S.
YVR in general isn’t as big and busy as LAX; navigating it will be easier.
YVR will likely be easier. And it’s a 1 hour shorter flight TPAC.
Vancouver is much easier. LAX, you may need to change terminals, and that is hard if you are in a rush.
Mal said:
Vancouver is much easier. LAX, you may need to change terminals, and that is hard if you are in a rush.
I don’t have an opinion as I’ve never gone through YVR, but I did want to say that I don’t think OP would have to change terminals since they’d be coming into LAX on an international flight and leaving on another international flight; everything should happen at the Tom Bradley International Terminal.
If YVR means Air Canada economy, I vote for LAX. Total flight time should be less too.
YVR has great amenities in the international terminal. I hate LA, I used to travel through there a lot for work. I live in Vancouver, so take my suggestion with the bit of bias it comes with.
I once had someone tell me LAX is Satan’s asshole and I believe them. It’s one of my least favorite airports, so I say 100% YVR.
Roan said:
I once had someone tell me LAX is Satan’s asshole and I believe them. It’s one of my least favorite airports, so I say 100% YVR.
It’s true. And I happen to love Los Angeles generally.
YVR, hands down. It’s way more chill, cleaner, and way less chaotic than LAX.