Well while Europe and the US have been closing courses due to lack of funding, here in SE Asia new 18 and even 36-hole golf resorts have been holding grand openings and welcome both local and international golfers to their tee boxes.
Thailand has been opening a few new courses and other SE Asian countries have followed suit.
No more so than in Northern Vietnam, where four new golf clubs are now open for business, namely Thanh Lanh, Stone Highland, Dragon Links and Tuan Chau.
Adam Jobes
We caught up with Adam Jobes, Golfasian’s Vietnam Country Sales Manager to get all the latest news.
Thanh Lanh is designed by Sir Nick Faldo this course is located at an altitude of 1,000 metres above sea level.
Adam said, “Thanh Lanh is a gem nestled just over an hour’s drive from Hanoi. The course is a visual treat, with its expansive lake and mountainous backdrop. It’s quickly becoming a favorite in the North, thanks to its impeccable quality and service.”
“The fairways are wide and well-kept, and the 14th hole—a heart-shaped island par 3—is simply breathtaking. It’s a must-visit for any golfer in the region, “ added Adam.
“However, due to its popularity, it means securing a tee time can be challenging, so Golfasian has already secured tee times in advance. Most golfers opt for a day trip out and back from the center of Hanoi and allow 10-12 hours to take in the golf and scenery along the way.”
Stone Highland Golf & Resort is another recent addition to our golfing landscape and is set against a backdrop of lush greenery and serene lakes.
Adam said, “This golf club also known as Viet Yen Golf Course offers an unforgettable playing experience across its 36 meticulously crafted holes, with 18 adorning the East and the remaining on the West. Its proximity to Hanoi makes it a convenient choice for those looking to minimize travel. ”
Dragon Hills is another course that deserves mention. Opened in late 2023 near Do Son, it’s a stone’s throw away from Hai Phong and Ha Long Bay.
”The course boasts a links-style design with ocean vistas that are sure to impress.
They’re also expanding, with a second course and villas under construction. Despite its openness, strategic bunkers and water hazards provide a good test. Its distance from Hanoi means it’s less crowded and easier to book, making it worth the journey,” added Adam.
Adam said, “Finally I recently had the pleasure of playing at Tuan Chau Golf Resort, a unique course in the Ha Long area. It’s set on its own island, reminiscent of Vin Pearl Nha Trang, albeit on a smaller scale and without the tall trees. The
course layout is commendable, featuring challenging par 5s that stretch over 600 yards, and nearly 700 yards from the pro tees. The inclusion of shorter par 4s adds an element of fun, with strategically placed bunkers ready to challenge players.”
It is worth noting that Northern Vietnam is a lot cooler than the rest of the country. Especially in the hotter summer months of June and July when other regions have average temperatures of 35c, in the north the mean temperatures vary between 25 and 30 °C .
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