USA to Vietnam for Golf

Golf players from the United States of America, or USA golfers, make up the majority of golf tourists to Vietnam. They often prefer a Vietnam golf holiday in combination with free days to explore this country’s scenic spots. In this article, we will give you an ultimate guide on how to travel from the USA to Vietnam for golf holiday. 

1. General Vietnam information

• Location: Southeast Asia
• Capital: Hanoi
• Language: Vietnamese
• Currency: Vietnam Dong (VND)
• Main religion: Buddhism, Catholicism, Confucianism, Caodaism
• Ethnic groups: 54
• Time zone: UTC + 7

Vietnam is considered one of the fastest-growing golf markets in the world. In 2019 and 2021, this country was named the World’s Best Golf Destination by the World Golf Awards. This country has more than 30 golf courses, and many of them are built to international standards. In 2009, there were about 10,000 people playing golf in Vietnam. In 2018, this number was 70,000, increasing seven times in 10 years.

Vietnam is also Asia’s Best Golf Destination for five consecutive years, from 2017 to 2021. Thanks to the large collection of stunning golf courses, Vietnam attracts worldwide golf enthusiasts. Many of them not only come to Vietnam once but return every few years. 

2. Visa application & Packaging tips

Visa

Players traveling from the USA to Vietnam for golf need a visa to get into the country. Those who arrive in Vietnam by air can pick up a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Vietnam international airports; however, it is not an optimal method and you are advised to complete all processes of Vietnam visa application before departure to avoid unexpected things. 

USA golfers are eligible for Vietnam E-Visa application system. This is also the most convenient way to get a Vietnam Visa up to now. Simply fill in the online Vietnam visa application form issued by the Immigration Department of Vietnam, pay $25 of applying fee and wait for several days for the result. You will receive an actual visa instead of an approval letter. This way, you don’t need to queue in line for Visa application at the embassy and save a lot of money for middlemen. You will also enjoy free stamping fee at the airport on arrival.

However, an E-visa is valid for 30 days for a foreigner to enter Vietnam once for tourism purposes only. If you want to stay for a longer time, please contact us for more advices.

>>> For detailed information on how to apply for a Vietnam visa, you can refer to our article on Vietnam Visa Requirements here.

Packaging tips

There are three main points you should remember when packing for a golf holiday in Vietnam. First, check out the weather. Vietnam is divided into three regions with different climates. Playing golf in Hanoi and north Vietnam, remember to bring warm clothes if you come here in winter (from November to April). However, Ho Chi Minh and South Vietnam is hot all year round, and some lightweight clothes are enough.

Secondly, re-check the bag of golf essentials several times before departing. Empty your bag and add a set of golf balls, a fresh glove, a clean towel, and a light jacket respectively. Lack of these equipments is like giving away money because you will not buy them cheap at the price in Vietnam golf courses. 

Finally, to ensure a wonderful Vietnam golf tour, don’t forget medications such as painkillers, medicines for headaches, allergies, etc., because the weather change may make you feel uncomfortable sometimes during your trip. Mosquito repellent and sunscreen are also vital.

3. Best time to play golf in Vietnam

Golfing weather in Vietnam

In general, spring (from February to April) and autumn (from August to October) are the best time to play golf in Vietnam when it has weak sunlight and mild temperature. Travelers from the USA to Vietnam for golf can enjoy a golf tour throughout Vietnam without worrying about the extreme weather phenomena.

However, each part of the country has different weather conditions. Let’s see how the climate varies from region to region of Vietnam so that you can have the most wonderful golf trip.

• Hanoi and north Vietnam have four seasons, with the late spring (from March to April) and autumn (from September to November) being the ideal time for a golf round. During this time, the weather is warm and less humid. The temperature is comfortable at around 25 degrees Celcius. Other times of the year witness harsh weather. It is scorching in the summer and extremely cold in the winter. The fog in the air is also an inhibition as it obstructs the vision.
• Da Nang and Central Vietnam are warm all year round, with peak golf season from February to May, when it is cool and has little rainfall. The fresh air from the sea will bring golfers an extremely comfortable feeling while playing on links courses such as Montgomerie Links Vietnam, Hoiana Shores, etc. 
• Ho Chi Minh City and South Vietnam are rainy from May to October, so you should visit this region from November to April. During this dry season, golfers will experience a mild climate with a temperature of around 32 degrees Celcius. You can still play golf in Ho Chi Minh City during the rainy season but expect some stops during the golf round to let the rain pass, especially in the late afternoon.

High and low golf seasons in Vietnam

With the information presented above, you can easily realize the high and low golf seasons in Vietnam. The high season generally takes place in the dry season, from November to April. Traveling from the USA to Vietnam for golf at this time, you can expect ultimate weather and have several golf rounds per day. However, escalating green fees and crowded conditions should be taken into consideration. 

In contrast, playing golf in Vietnam during the low season, you can enjoy lower prices and a quiet scenery at courses as compensation for harsh weather conditions. Consider which factors are more important to you and choose a suitable time.

4. Transportation

Travel between USA and Vietnam

Traveling from the USA to Vietnam for golf is no more a difficult task as there are many airlines operating flights between these two countries nowadays. From an east coast airport in the USA (New York, for example), you can take a one-stop 22-hour flight to Vietnam. West coast cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, etc. also offer flights with the same flying time. 

You can refer to the following sites to book a flight from the USA to Vietnam for golf:

• China Airlines: https://www.china-airlines.com/us/en
• Asiana Airlines: https://flyasiana.com/C/US/EN/index
• Eva Airlines: https://flights.evaair.com/en/flights-from-united-states-to-vietnam
• American Airlines: https://www.aa.com/en-us/flights-to-asia
• Cathay Pacific: https://flights.cathaypacific.com/destinations/en_US/flights-to-vietnam

Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways are two branches providing non-stop flights from the USA to Vietnam. With an average flying time of more than 16 hours and a frequency of 2 – 5 flights per day, traveling from the USA to Vietnam for golf has become easier and easier. To buy direct air tickets, visit:

• Vietnam Airlines: https://www.vietnamairlines.com/en-us/flights-to-vietnam
• Bamboo Airways: https://www.bambooairways.com/us-en/

Transportation in Vietnam

Due to the diversity of landscapes, Vietnam offers a variety of modes of transportation. You can fly from point to point, ride a motorbike, take a train or bus, use a tech-based motorbike taxi, etc. However, for those who arrive in this country for the first time, a private car rental service is more appropriate. It is highly recommended for golfers because of the heavy club bags and luggage.

Firstly, it is safe to rent a private car with a driver. You don’t need to worry about traffic jams, find a route, or face unexpected events on roads. Just let the driver know your destination, and he will take you there safely. You can also spend time on the road relaxing, reading books, chatting with friends, etc.

Secondly, there are many types of cars for you to pick out, from luxurious branches such as Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover Sport, and Lexus GX-460 to casual ones like Toyota Prado, Toyota Fortuner, and Deluxe Van Ford Transit. Not to mention the elegance and affluence, these are the best performance cars that can carry two to three people with club bags. If you go in a group of four or six, consider the Deluxe Van Ford Transit. 

The experienced and friendly driver should be the most important reason for you to choose this service. You will be cared for by local drivers who are always punctual, have good route knowledge, and are experienced in dealing with unforeseen driving situations. They are the most affectionate and knowledgeable drivers who work intending to create golfers not only safe but also comfortable travels between golf courses.

>>> Read more about car rental services in Vietnam, where to rent a car with or without a driver in Vietnam.

5. Accommodation

Vietnam has a wide range of accommodations to serve tourists from the USA to Vietnam for golf, from 4-star and 5-star hotels to high-end play & stay resorts. Wherever you go in Vietnam, you can easily find a luxurious settlement. 

Many famous hospitability brands are investing in Vietnam with all-inclusive golf & resort complexes, bringing golfers a chance to not only satisfy their passions but also unwind with their families and friends. Some can be named the FLC Ha Long Bay Golf Club & Luxury Resort in the north and Hoiana Resort & Golf in central Vietnam. In the south of Vietnam, there is Vinpearl Golf Phu Quoc – the most iconic property of Vingroup.

Here are some suggestions if you are finding a stay & play destination in Vietnam:

• Stay & Play at Vinpearl Phu Quoc
• Laguna golf stay & play package – Laguna Lang Co 3 days
• Stay & Play at Hoiana Shores Resort & Golf
• Hanoi golf stopover & Ha Long Bay cruise 4 days 
• FLC Ha Long wonder golfing experience

6. Recommended golf & sightseeing tours

Nowadays, more and more tourists travel from the USA to Vietnam for golf & sightseeing. They prefer big cities with international standardized golf courses and modern tourism infrastructures, such as Hanoi, Da Nang, Da Lat, Ho Chi Minh City, etc. Many of them combine these destinations within a grand sightseeing and golf tour. Imagine a golf round on the East Sea’s shoreline, on the white sand beaches over the edge of Ha Long Bay, or within the romantic atmosphere of Da Lat – the European city of Vietnam. Everything is in your hands when you visit this country.

Here we provide a wide range of Vietnam golf tours with courses from north to south of the country, golf rounds alternating sightseeing days for you to relax and recharge your batteries. Refer to:

• Best Vietnam golf tours & holiday packages
• 19 days Vietnam grand golf & sightseeing tours
• Hanoi – Saigon golf & holiday package 12 days
• 1-day helicopter golf tour Da Nang

Remember that all itineraries can be customized depending on your time and interest. You can create your holiday and Vietnam golf tours yourself. Or, let us know your desire, and we will provide you with a tailor-made trip.

7. Address for reference

• US Embassy in Hanoi

Address: No.7, Lang Ha Street, Hanoi, Vietnam

Telephone: +84-24-3850-5000

Website: Click here

• US Consulate in Ho Chi Minh city

Address: 4 Le Duan Blvd., District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Telephone: +84-28-3520-4200

Website: Click here

• Vietnam Embassy in the United States

Address: 1233 20th St NW, Ste 400, Washington, DC 20036

Telephone: 202-861-0737

Website: Click here

Wish this information is helpful to you while preparing for a golf holiday in Vietnam. Please let us know if you still have any questions or need help. With a fully licensed international tour operator, GolfLux is proud to offer all travel services for visitors from the USA to Vietnam for golf, such as visa application, land transportation, air tickets, accommodation, etc. Looking forward to seeing you in our stunning S-shaped country.