In recent years, golf tourism to Southeast Asian countries has been steadily increasing. With rich cultural diversity and unique, abundant natural landscapes, Southeast Asia has become a promised land, attracting golfers from all over the world to visit and experience its wonders.
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Among the top golf destinations in the region are Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia. In this article, Asia Golf Journey invites golfers to explore the land of the world-famous “Pho” soup—Vietnam. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage and warm, hospitable people, Vietnam is emerging as one of the fastest-growing golf destinations in Southeast Asia and Asia. With approximately 100 operational golf courses and plans to expand that number to 200 in the coming years, Vietnam offers unparalleled opportunities for golf enthusiasts.
Most golf tourists prefer booking tours for the clear benefits, such as knowing your expenses in advance and optimizing costs across multiple activities, including transportation, golfing, accommodation, and dining. If you're traveling with friends, this can be especially fun. However, for those who want to explore independently, Vietnam is an ideal destination for planning a self-guided golf tour, allowing you to customize your experience and budget as needed.
And for just $2, you can enjoy a special bowl of Vietnam’s iconic Pho, adding even more charm to your golfing adventure!
Why Choose a Self Golf Tour in Vietnam in Vietnam?
English is becoming the country 2nd language
Language barriers are often the biggest challenge when traveling to a foreign country. However, in Vietnam, most locals can communicate in English to some degree, especially those working in service establishments, golf courses, restaurants, and hotels.
Moreover, the Vietnamese are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Wherever you go, you’ll be greeted with warm smiles from the locals, who are genuine and welcoming. About 20% of Vietnam's golf courses are located near major cities, while the rest are spread across satellite towns or provincial areas, offering diverse golfing experiences in different settings.
2. Cost Efficiency
A self-guided golf tour can be more budget-friendly, as you pay only for the facilities you need, such as cart rentals, caddies, or equipment. Avoid additional costs typically associated with guided tours, and unnecessary services. Here are some tips about golf frees in Vietnam:
Green Fee: The green fee in Vietnam typically ranges from 1,700,000 VND to 2,500,000 VND on weekdays and 2,100,000 VND to 3,500,000 VND on weekends.
Caddy Fee: In Vietnam, it's customary to have a caddy accompany you for the entire 18 holes. There is no option for playing golf without a caddy service. If you want a good caddy, you can book a caddy in advance with a fee about 7-10 USD
Buggy Fee: Most golf courses in Vietnam require golfers to use a buggy. This not only helps maintain a reasonable pace of play but also ensures your comfort in the face of challenging weather conditions. Be aware that some courses may charge an additional fee for a private buggy if you require extra.
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Golfers are typically advised to check prices by calling or emailing golf courses to inquire about promotions beforehand. Additionally, they can explore Stay & Play packages offered by hotels.
Golf courses often introduce special deals, especially during the summer. Since the hot weather is less appealing for golfers in Vietnam and Asia, courses tend to offer promotions to attract more players during this season.
It’s worth noting that golf courses usually plan their summer promotions around 1–2 months in advance. Therefore, if you book a golf session a year ahead, prices may not be confirmed, and the rates applied are likely to be standard visitor rates.
3. Experience to World-Class Golf Courses
Vietnam boasts some of Asia’s most renowned golf courses, designed by legendary names such as Greg Norman, Nick Faldo, and IMG. In recent years, state-driven initiatives have spurred increased investment in golf course development. Typically, these courses are strategically built in areas with stunning natural landscapes, such as rugged mountain regions, lush green hills, or pristine coastal areas.
Vietnam's coastal geography, with a 3,260 km-long coastline, has resulted in nearly 20% of the country’s 100 golf courses being located near the sea. These seaside courses often stand out as some of the most beautiful in the nation.
Top 10 Most Beautiful Golf Courses in Vietnam 2024:
The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram
Laguna Golf Lang Co
Ba Na Hills Golf Club
Hoiana Shores Golf Club
Legend Da Nang Golf Resort
KN Golf Links Cam Ranh
Royal Golf Course Ninh Binh
Legend Valley Country Club
Thanh Lanh Valley Golf & Resort
FLC Ha Long Golf Club
4. Weather Conditions is a heavenly beautiful weather
Vietnam’s diverse climate offers golfers the opportunity to enjoy their favorite sport in comfortable conditions throughout the year.
North Vietnam: The cooler, temperate climate from October to April creates an ideal environment for golfing in iconic cities like Hanoi and Halong Bay. The lush greenery and scenic mountain courses add to the experience.
Central Vietnam: Coastal gems such as Da Nang and Hoi An boast sunny skies and refreshing breezes almost all year, making it a prime location for ocean-side fairways.
South Vietnam: With its tropical climate, cities like Ho Chi Minh and Phan Thiet offer warm, sunny days that ensure a seamless golfing experience even during the “rainy season,” when showers are brief and predictable.
5. Tailored Your Golf Experience with “Local Tastes”
A Motorbike Adventure is Not a Bad Idea
As of September 2024, Vietnam boasts 77 million registered motorbikes, equating to 770 motorbikes per 1,000 people—one of the highest ownership rates globally. Many tourists visiting Vietnam enjoy the thrill of riding a motorbike. However, note that experience is essential, as driving in Vietnam is often described as "lawless."
Combine Golf with Exploring Historical Landmarks
Vietnam carefully preserves historical landmarks from both its wartime era and ancient past. Exploring museums, ancient villages, or rural Vietnamese countryside offers a fascinating and enriching cultural experience alongside your golf trip.
Don’t Forget to Savor Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese traditional dishes vary across its three regions:
Northern Vietnam: Phở, Nem (spring rolls)
Central Vietnam: Mì Quảng, Nem Nướng (grilled pork rolls), Bánh Căn
Southern Vietnam: Bánh Mì, Hủ Tiếu
Contact AGJ for personalized golf travel planning for you or your group. Discover Vietnam’s unique charm and cultural highlights during your upcoming golf adventure!
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