Ho Tram resort gambles that it can woo the public

MGM Grand Ho Tram

Asian Coast Development (Canada) Limited (ACDL)  last week announced a summer opening date after a delay obtaining an amended investment certificate from the government.

The project owner, through its subsidiary Ho Tram Project Company, said the Ba Ria-Vung Tau province resort would be open on July 26, 2013 under the name of “The Grand – Ho Tram Strip.”

“Extraordinary resort properties should be identified by a name and brand that reflect their quality, stature and uniqueness. After a long discussion process with stakeholders, branding experts and all departments within our organisation, we found ourselves coming full circle - all the way back to the first name that was put on the table: The Grand,” said John Webb, The Grand – Ho Tram Strip’s vice president of hospitality.

The announcement comes three months after MGM Resorts International withdrew from a contract with ACDL for managing this first integrated resort, which was initially named MGM Grand Ho Tram. This move also comes despite an internal dispute involving a lawsuit between the company’s high-ranking executives, showing ACDL’s determination to launch the project.

“We could not be more excited,” said Ho Tram Project Company general director Colin Pine.

If things go according to plan, Vietnam will have the first casino integrated resort that which could enhance the nation’s tourism appeal and bring thousands of visitors to the country.

The first phase of The Grand Ho Tram Strip includes 541 five-star rooms, gaming facilities, meeting and convention space, ten bars and restaurants, a spa, teens’ and children’s areas, three swimming pools and luxury retail shops.

 Last October the developer also commenced the construction of the second phase of The Grand Ho Tram Strip, which will include a second tower of 559 rooms and additional leisure facilities. In addition, The Bluffs Championship Golf Course designed by Greg Norman is under construction.

Apart from The Grand Ho Tram Strip, another similar sized integrated resort operated by Pinnacle Entertainment Group and three other five star resorts will be built in the future.