Gabi Powel’s Golf Journey in Vietnam: “Breathtaking – Grounding – Unforgettable”:  08:51, 07/07/2025

When did you first hear about golf in Vietnam, and what inspired you to experience it firsthand?

Funny story – this all started when I was chatting with Bill Healey while we were in Mexico at the PGA Open at Vidanta. He’s traveled and played golf all over the world, so I asked him straight up, “Okay, where’s the best golf you’ve ever played?” And without even thinking, he said, “Vietnam.” He showed me photos on his phone and I was like, wait, this exists?! It looked unreal. From there, I went down a rabbit hole learning more about the courses, the culture, the scenery... it all just felt so different from anything I’d experienced. Then Bill connected me with Mark Siegel, the Managing Director at Golf Asian, and before I knew it, I was planning the golf trip of my dreams across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.

During your golf journey in Vietnam, which course impressed you the most – and why?

Oh my gosh, that’s so hard because they were all incredible, but Ba Na Hills really blew me away. You’re playing golf in the mountains, the air feels crisp, and every hole has these crazy elevation changes. Hole 16, the signature par 3, is one of the prettiest holes I’ve ever seen in my life. The course conditions were flawless, and the service – next level. The caddies, the staff, the vibe – it all just came together perfectly.

Can you share the most memorable moment you had while playing golf here?

Absolutely – it was that first tee shot at Thanh Lanh Valley. That was the first course we played, and I just remember standing on the balcony of the clubhouse thinking, “This can’t be real. I’m actually in Vietnam… about to play golf.” I stepped up to the tee, hit my drive, and the caddies all reacted with this chorus of “ooohs” and “ahhhs.” It was so fun and unexpected, it honestly set the tone for the entire trip.

As a KOL and golf content creator, what stood out to you about Vietnam’s landscapes, people, or culture when blended with the sport?

The people. Everyone was so kind and welcoming. It really made the trip special. And one thing that really stood out? All the caddies were women. That’s rare in the U.S., and it added such a unique energy to every round. And the contrast is what I loved most. One minute you’re playing a championship-level course, and the next you’re exploring a local market or having pho on the sidewalk. That blend of golf and everyday culture is something I’ll never forget.

Did your golf fashion style shift or evolve while you were in Vietnam? Did you find any new inspirations from the local culture?

You know what, yes! I definitely found some inspo while shopping in the markets. I’m big on having a signature style, but I started leaning into looser, more breathable fabrics. There were so many flowy pieces and bright colors that caught my eye. I left with a few new looks in my suitcase.

How do you usually combine travel and golf to create unique content for social media?

For me, it’s all about storytelling. I don’t just want people to watch me hit golf shots – I want them to feel like they’re on the trip with me. I try to show the little things: sunrise views, cultural moments, funny interactions with caddies. Those small details are what bring the experience to life and connect with people, especially those who may never get to visit these places themselves.

Compared to other countries where you’ve played, what makes golfing in Vietnam feel different?

It felt personal. Every course, every hotel, every meal – it felt like people were genuinely excited to share their world with you. That warmth isn’t something you always get when traveling. And the variety? Unreal. One day you’re in the mountains, the next you’re teeing off next to the ocean. It’s hard to beat that.

Do you have any tips for international golfers considering Vietnam as their next golf and travel destination?

Yes – don’t just show up to play golf and go home. Eat the food, wander the streets, talk to people. Vietnam has so much to offer beyond the course. Oh, and pack breathable clothing. It gets hot! Also, shoutout to Golf Asian – they handled everything for me, created my dream itinerary and it made the trip so smooth. Total VIP experience.

As someone passionate about storytelling through visuals, which places in Vietnam did you find the most “visual-friendly”?

Honestly? Everywhere. Hanoi has that organized chaos that looks amazing on camera. Ha Long Bay is like something out of a movie. And Hoi An? Just... wow. Lanterns, color, textures – it was all so dreamy to shoot. I don’t think I took a single bad photo the entire trip.

If you had to describe your golf journey in Vietnam using just three words, what would they be?

Breathtaking. Grounding. Unforgettable.

Beyond the golf course, what did you explore in terms of culture, food, or local life? Anything that surprised you?

Hanoi was wild – in the best way. It was my first-time seeing street markets that were actually on the street. Everything was so lively and full of energy. I couldn’t believe how many people were on motorbikes – millions, just weaving around like a dance. And then Da Nang was such a contrast – super modern, clean, a little more relaxed. Both places had their own charm. What really stuck with me was how community-based everything is. People are always out together, eating, playing, laughing. It made me realize how different daily life is from what I’m used to in the States.

What Vietnamese dish did you fall in love with during your trip? Any favorites you think could be a hit back in the U.S.?

Beef pho was my ride or die. I could eat it every day and never get tired of it. And the rice-wrapped spring rolls? So fresh and flavorful. What amazed me was how fresh everything is. People go to the market daily – it’s just part of life. No one’s keeping leftovers for days. It honestly made me want to rethink how I eat at home.

Did you have any memorable interactions with locals or Vietnamese golfers that stood out to you?

Yes! I had the chance to play with Vietnam’s top amateur male and female golfers, Nguyen Anh Minh and Chuc An Le. They’re both heading to college in the U.S., and hearing their stories – how they grew up, their goals, their love for the game – it really moved me. It reminded me that golf is such a powerful connector, no matter where you're from.

As someone who grew up playing golf in the U.S., how would you compare the golf scene in Vietnam – from the service and course design to the overall vibe?

Vietnam’s golf scene feels fresh and elevated. The service is incredible – it’s like everyone truly cares about your experience. And what’s cool is that these public courses feel like private clubs in the U.S. You get top-tier conditions and service, but they’re actually accessible to more people. That’s a game-changer.

What do you think Vietnam is doing particularly well in terms of developing golf, and where do you see its biggest potential?

Vietnam is doing such a great job blending culture with high-quality golf. The courses are stunning, the service is strong, and it’s all wrapped in this uniquely Vietnamese experience. I think the biggest opportunity is just showing more people what golf here looks like. Once you’ve been, you get it, and you’ll want to come back again and again.

If you were to introduce Vietnam to the international golf community, what would you say to spark their curiosity and inspire them to visit?

I’d say: Imagine playing golf on a mountain, then having pho for dinner in the markets, then exploring a lantern-lit river market all in one day. Vietnam isn’t just a golf destination. It’s a full-on experience. And once you go, it’s going to change the way you think about golf travel forever.

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GABI POWEL
Golfer, KOL, content creator
Nationality: USA

College Golf: NCAA Division 1 at Florida International University
Handicap: 0
Countries played golf: Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, South Africa, Japan, Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, Bahamas, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and the UK — 13 countries and counting.
Instagram: @gabipowel

Style: Modern, inspiring, passionate about travel-infused golf experiences
Interests: golf, fashion, culture, storytelling