An aerial view of the Ba Na Hills Golf Club clubhouse and part of its flood-lit course. Image courtesy banahillsgolf.com.
By Rahul Banerji
The Ba Na Hills Golf Club in Danang, Vietnam, has secured the title of Best Golf Course Asia 2024 in at the World Luxury Travel Awards, the International Association of Golf Tour Operators said in a statement.
Designed by Ryder Cup-winning Team Europe captain Luke Donald, the club is seen as one of the premier golf courses in Vietnam and Asia, the IAGTO added.
This reputation was enhanced when it was recognised as one of Asia’s most exciting golf venues by the panel of World Luxury Travel Awards judges.
In addition to its recognition at the awards ceremony, Ba Na Hills Golf Club was also featured in the October issue of Travel Temptations, a bespoke publication linked to the World Luxury Travel Awards.
“We are honoured to receive this prestigious award,” said Simon Mees, Ba Na Hills Golf Club general manager. “It’s gratifying to have our efforts acknowledged by the World Luxury Travel Awards as one of the finest courses in the world.”
The club’s success comes during a standout year for Ba Na Hills, a key player in the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) initiative, a newly revitalised marketing collective promoting the top golf courses of central Vietnam.
Last year, Golf.com, one of the world’s foremost golf publications, listed the club among Asia’s 11 best golf resorts.
High honours
This latest recognition reinforces Ba Na Hills Golf Club’s position as Vietnam’s most awarded golf destination, reflecting its consistent ability to deliver a world-class golfing experience.
Managed by IMG, the club features a fully floodlit, 18-hole championship course offering players an unparalleled experience.
Nestled at the foot of a majestic mountain range, just 30 minutes from the rapidly expanding city of Danang, Ba Na Hills is known for its scenic parkland-style course.
The layout flows over rolling hills, with sweeping views of lush greenery, sparkling streams, and tranquil lakes enhancing the experience.
“Our goal is to continuously elevate the guest experience,” added Mees. “By staying true to this mission, we expect the accolades to keep coming. These awards reflect our team’s dedication and passion for creating unforgettable experiences that keep guests coming back.”
More information about Ba Na Hills Golf Club is available at www.banahillsgolf.com
Innovation at Emirates GC
Meanwhile, the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai has introduced a new digital information system to modernise the club and automate the handicap calculator for its golfers – becoming the first club in the region with the facility, IAGTO noted.
Emirates Golf Club, operated by Dubai Golf, has implemented the new digital system, How Many Strokes, which automatically updates and can also integrate with existing technology systems.
The digital handicap conversion board is located at the check-in desk and provides a handicap conversion calculator, meaning golfers can be easily assigned a course handicap and an appropriate tee box before teeing off.
Golfers will also be able to use the board to receive weather updates, green speed data, sunset times, the day’s pin positions, and relevant course updates as well as a digital meet and greet upon arrival.
“Enhancing the player experience is at the forefront of all technological advancements at Emirates Golf Club”, said Nico Visser, Director of Golf at Emirates Golf Club.
“Not only is it easier to use, but the digital information board improves the communication between players and the club, creating a more personalised experience.
Convenience multiplier
The How Many Strokes system also helps players choose an appropriate tee box, which is an efficient way to speed up pace of play around the course.”
Operating in over 20 countries on five continents, the system is in use at courses like Whistling Straits in the USA, Real Club de Golf Sotogrande in Spain, Royal Auckland & Grange in New Zealand, and England’s Hillside Golf Club.
One benefit of the system is the ability to provide accurate, up-to-date information on the board in real time, which offers a more efficient way to share information and reduces costs.
Increasing efficiency and taking steps towards a more sustainable approach to course management is a consistent theme throughout the recent success of Emirates Golf Club, which experienced a jump in the latest Golf World MENA Top 100 rankings for 2024.
The Majlis Course rose six places to third, while the Faldo Course was 34th, rising three places in the rankings.
“We pride ourselves in continuing to implement the most modern solutions for our golf courses”, added Visser.
“The digital information board helps to relay messages to our golfers in real time, as well as freeing up our staff to manage other touchpoints throughout the property.”
“It is fantastic to be the first golf club to install the How Many Strokes system and digital information board. This will hopefully pave the way for other clubs to embrace similar digital solutions.”
Also read: Choosing a premium golf experience around the globe
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