[INSPECT THE NORTHERN GOLF] Day 1: Royal Golf Course - A Green Oasis Amidst the Limestone Mountains  09:55, 10/07/2026

After a comfortable two-hour drive via the expressway, the bustling cityscape gradually gave way to rice fields, dramatic limestone karsts, and the lush landscapes that define Vietnam's ancient capital. Royal Golf Course, nestled within The Five Resort & Golf Hoang Gia Ninh Binh, welcomed the delegation with a tranquil setting, far removed from the noise and pace of urban life.

The first impression was the seamless harmony between the golf course and its natural surroundings. Vibrant green fairways dotted with yellow wildflowers stretch beneath towering limestone mountains, while lakes and strategically placed bunkers create a layout that is at once scenic, serene, and strategically demanding.

Throughout the survey round, members of the Awards Jury personally evaluated the course conditions, layout design, level of challenge, and operational services. The Zoysia fairways received particularly positive feedback for their consistent playing surface and excellent turf quality. Despite the forgiving lies, players still needed thoughtful course management and precise shot-making to score well.

Mr. Oh Sang Jun, a member of the Vietnam Golf & Leisure Awards Jury, was especially impressed by the course's distinctive limestone landscape and the quality of its Zoysia turf. He believes Royal Golf Course possesses tremendous potential to further elevate the golfer experience. Another memorable highlight was the clubhouse's refreshing fresh pineapple juice - a simple local specialty that left a lasting impression on the delegation.

Following the round, the team checked into the golf-view villas at The Five Resort & Golf Hoang Gia Ninh Binh. Spacious, modern, and private, the accommodations offered the perfect setting to unwind after a full day on the course. From the villa windows, members enjoyed sweeping views of the fairways glowing in the afternoon light, while mist drifting across the mountains at sunrise created an atmosphere of remarkable tranquility.

The experience continued into the evening with a dinner showcasing Ninh Binh's local specialties. Beyond introducing regional flavors, the meal highlighted the destination's ability to seamlessly combine golf, luxury hospitality, and local culture into a well-rounded travel experience.

Mr. Pham Tien Van, Head of the Survey Team, commented: "With its vast land area and the long-term vision of its leadership, this integrated golf and resort destination has every potential to become one of Northern Vietnam's premier golf tourism hubs."

As the opening stop of the Northern Vietnam survey, Royal Golf Course delivered an inspiring first impression. Beyond its challenging layout and spectacular natural scenery, the destination offers a complete golf resort experience where golfers can play amidst breathtaking landscapes, stay alongside the fairways, and discover the timeless beauty of Ninh Binh from an entirely new perspective.

Take a look back at some memorable moments from the Vietnam Golf & Leisure Awards 2026 Survey Team's visit to The Five Resort & Golf Hoang Gia Ninh Binh on July 9, 2026.