Halong Bay in Vietnam is one of the most spectacularly beautiful stretches of water on the planet.
is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features thousands of dramatic limestone karsts and uninhabited islands in various shapes and sizes.
Some critics felt pre-Covid that the many cruise boats in the waters were starting to destroy the region's charm - and cause major environmental damage. Now a high-rise hotel may be set to cause further dissent.
A press release I received today announced that WorldHotels will expand its portfolio in Vietnam with the launch of a brand-new Elite collection hotel in Halong.
It promises a "magnificent backdrop of nature, offering views of the horizon that embraces the natural wonder of Halong Bay".
All well and good - except the images attached show the proposed hotel is a high-rise monstrosity (below).
Surely the Vietnamese authorities should be encouraging appropriate low-rise, low-impact developments rather than one that looks like a city centre property?
Expected to open its doors in the first quarter of 2023, MW Luxury Halong is described as "an elegant and iconic lifestyle hotel with world-class architecture and sophisticated interior design".
How something can be an icon before it has even been built is a moot point - PR excess may be to blame. .
The hotel will offer an infinity pool offering "panoramic bay views" and a spa and fitness centre.
It is situated in the centre of Halong, a relatively small city where it will be unmissable. For all the wrong reasons.
Progress, apparently.
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