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| Ba Na Hills Golf Club general manager Simon Mees |
A Steady Rise in Australian Golf Tourists
Central Vietnam’s reputation as a premier golf destination is rapidly growing, with Australian golfers leading the charge. The Montgomerie Links, a cornerstone of the region's golf scene, has seen a 20% increase in Australian rounds over the past two years, rising from 1,700 to 2,200 annually. This impressive growth highlights the region’s appeal, especially as Montgomerie Links – designed by renowned golfer Colin Montgomerie – offers a challenging but scenic course for golfers of all abilities.
Ba Na Hills Golf Club has also experienced even more dramatic growth, with Australian play surging by 35-40%. The stunning course, designed by Luke Donald, has quickly become a favourite among Australian golfers, further solidifying Central Vietnam’s place on the global golf map.
What’s driving this surge in interest? A large number of Australian golfers are visiting during Vietnam’s quieter months, particularly the Australian winter. This not only helps to boost tourism in the off-peak season but also provides golfers with the perfect opportunity to escape the chill of home and immerse themselves in Vietnam’s warm weather and vibrant culture.
Targeted Marketing and High-Profile Partnerships
Central Vietnam’s strategic marketing efforts are paying off, with several initiatives aimed at bringing Australian golfers to the region. Over the past year, the destination has welcomed some of Australia’s leading golf writers, including representatives from Golf Digest Australia, to experience the region’s offerings first-hand. These media familiarisation trips have been instrumental in spreading the word about the exceptional golfing experience on offer.
Driving much of the momentum in the region is Laguna Golf Lang Co, a signature course designed by Sir Nick Faldo, which is a founding member of the Vietnam Golf Coast. The course has made waves by hosting roadshows in Melbourne and Sydney earlier this year. These events showcased the region's standout courses, including those designed by other golf greats such as Luke Donald, Colin Montgomerie, Greg Norman, and Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Stephen Banks, Director of Golf at Laguna Golf Lang Co, emphasized how vital these events have been in fostering relationships with Australian stakeholders.
“These roadshows demonstrate our commitment to positioning Central Vietnam as a leading golf destination for Australians,” said Banks. “By forging strong ties with key players in the Australian market, we aim to build long-term partnerships that will ensure sustained tourism growth for the region.”
Why Australian Golfers Are Flocking to Central Vietnam
The rising number of Australian golfers in Central Vietnam is no accident. The region’s world-class golf courses, stunning landscapes, and excellent hospitality are just the start. With courses designed by some of the sport's biggest names, the region offers a variety of challenges and experiences for golfers seeking the perfect round.
Montgomerie Links, for example, is nestled between the sea and the mountains, providing golfers with a visually stunning backdrop as they play. The course’s design challenges golfers while offering spectacular views that make every hole a memorable experience. Likewise, Ba Na Hills Golf Club is known for its dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking panoramas.
In addition to the outstanding golf courses, Central Vietnam offers golfers a rich cultural experience, from the ancient town of Hoi An to the bustling streets of Da Nang. The region is a blend of modern luxury and traditional charm, making it an ideal destination for golfers looking to enjoy both their passion for the sport and the cultural richness of Vietnam.
Le Vo Hoang Van, club manager at Montgomerie Links, attributed much of the growth in Australian golfers to the region’s targeted marketing and the natural appeal of the destination.
“Australian golfers are drawn to the region’s world-class courses, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality,” she said. “The recent uptick in rounds is a testament to the effectiveness of our outreach efforts.”
Similarly, Simon Mees, general manager of Ba Na Hills Golf Club, highlighted the significance of the Australian market in shaping the success of the region’s golf tourism.
“The Australian market has been a game-changer for us,” said Mees. “It’s gratifying to see how well our course resonates with these visitors. The feedback we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re excited to continue building on this momentum.”
A Golf Destination for All Seasons
The rise of Australian golfers heading to Vietnam’s Golf Coast is not just a seasonal trend – it’s a long-term growth story. As more Australian golfers discover the region’s appeal, the number of players is expected to keep climbing. With its diverse range of courses, stunning natural beauty, and world-class hospitality, Central Vietnam is well-positioned to continue attracting golfers from Australia and around the globe.
Whether it’s the legendary Montgomerie Links, the spectacular Ba Na Hills Golf Club, or the iconic Laguna Lang Co, the Vietnam Golf Coast is proving to be an increasingly popular destination for golfers in search of the perfect round.
For Australian golfers, the question is no longer “Why Vietnam?” but “Why not Vietnam?” With the promise of a great round, world-class courses, and a warm welcome, Vietnam’s Golf Coast is undoubtedly becoming a top contender on the global golfing circuit.
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