There’s a very interesting story in today’s New York Times (read it here) about golf in Vietnam and how the development of courses is displacing farmers, using up valuable farm land, and using too much water. I was in Vietnam just about this time last year and had the chance to play four or five courses, but not the Da Lai course mentioned here, which is up north. The newest one I saw, the very good Montgomerie Links just south of Da Nang, is one of those cases where farmers had to be moved and I was told that there were some issues with compensation, which were being worked out. I don’t know how that situation was resolved, if it was, the but course did have its official opening earlier this year.
Simliar problems seem to be occurring throughout Asia, and probably throughout the developing world, where high-end recreation like golf is placed in juxtaposition with workers and rural traditions. It’s been a problem in China, too, and in both of those countries—and probably others—the government goes back and forth between wanting to encourage and squash golf development. The countries want the rich golfers from abroad (mostly from other Asian countries), the income, and to build tourism. The fact that these countries are, at least nominally, Communist (capital or small “C,” your choice) only adds to the irony. I was told that the younger leaders in Vietnam love golf so the game will be allowed to grow there.
The other development mentioned in this article, Sea Links, which is along the spectacular beach near Phan Thiet, is an abomination. The course is ridiculously difficult (I didn’t play it, but didn’t have to; just one look said enough), so it’s likely to dissuade rather than entice new golfers. It’s surrounded by hundreds of villas packed in cheek-by-jowl and a new hotel, and as I recall, even featured tall light poles for night play. This is the sort of development-gone-mad that not only Asia but the entire world has to be wary of, I don’t care who or how much is involved in the development.
I’m off to Thailand next week for the first time. Amazingly, according to what I’ve read there are already 250 courses there. I expect to play 8-10 of the best, from north to south. I’m sure all these issues will come up there, as well. I will do my best to report on what I find as I travel (assuming I can get good internet service) and upon my return. If anyone has any information about Thailand and golf over there before I leave, please pass it on.
And extra credit for anyone who gets the reference in the title. Double credit if you’re younger than 30.
