Ha Noi poised to become the world's premier golf city destination
VGP - Ha Noi is emerging as a global golf tourism hotspot, offering not only world-class courses but also serving as a gateway for cultural, culinary, and natural excursions to nearby regions such as Phu Tho, Ninh Binh, Hai Phong, and Quang Ninh.
A corner of BRG Legend Hill Golf Resort Soc Son in Ha Noi
Recognized as the "World's Best Golf City Destination" for 2023 and 2024 at the World Golf Awards, the capital is rapidly transforming into an international-class golf paradise, attracting affluent visitors from across the globe.
The city features six golf clusters with ten championship-level courses, including Long Bien Golf & Country Club, Van Tri Golf Club, and BRG Kings Island Golf Resort, alongside more than ten expansive practice facilities. Each course is carefully designed to meet international standards and is set against stunning natural landscapes to cater to a variety of golfer preferences.
Dr. Ha Van Sieu, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, said, "Ha Noi is emerging as a key golf tourism hub, thanks to its advantageous geographical location and proximity to rapidly growing markets like the Republic of Korea, Japan, and China. We are on the verge of becoming the region's 'golf paradise.'"
Ha Noi's appeal is further enhanced by its luxury accommodations. Hotels such as Sofitel Legend Metropole Ha Noi, JW Marriott Hotel Ha Noi, and InterContinental Ha Noi Westlake offer 4-5 star services tailored to discerning guests.
Dang Huong Giang, Director of the Ha Noi Department of Tourism, noted, "Ha Noi is uniquely positioned to develop golf tourism products due to its rich cultural heritage, well-invested infrastructure, and high-class hospitality."
Looking ahead, the city aims to elevate golf tourism as a flagship offering by fostering collaboration with localities and businesses to host international tournaments, create comprehensive golf tours, and develop an integrated ecosystem that combines golf with MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), health, culture, and culinary experiences.
According to Cao Thi Ngoc Lan, Permanent Vice President of the Vietnam Tourism Association, "Golf tourism not only generates substantial profits but also represents a sustainable economic avenue that Vietnam aims to cultivate." This niche market targets affluent visitors, demanding seamless service chains, modern facilities, and strong industry linkages.
Despite its advantages, Ha Noi faces challenges. Truong Quoc Hung, chairman of the Ha Noi UNESCO Travel Club, observed that high costs and a preference for individual bookings over group reservations may limit growth. Le Hong Thai from Ha Noi Tourism Corporation highlighted the need for coordinated promotion among travel agencies, airlines, golf courses, and hotels to attract clients from Taiwan (China) and Europe effectively.
Experts agree that Ha Noi's golf tourism potential can only be fully realised through collaboration with surrounding regions. Establishing an association of golf courses could help identify strengths and weaknesses, enhancing the sector's overall appeal./.
