GIMMICK COULD BE A GOLD MINE

The self-proclaimed “world’s first goldplated hotel” has opened for business — and its Vietnamese owners insist they have the Midas touch despite the shutdown of global travel during the coronavirus pandemic. The Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake cost $200m (R3.4bn) to build, with 24carat plating on several features including the lobby, the 200m² rooftop infinity pool, the cutlery, cups, shower heads and toilet seats.

Meals at the 25-storey hotel in downtown Hanoi may be mixed with a mysterious “gold substance”, according to the owners.

Its expensive for Vietnam, but the $250per-night price-tag it is not prohibitive for wealthy locals craving a few nights of glitzy living, its owners say. Nguyen Huu Duong, chair of the Hoa Binh group, which owns the hotel, said they expect “ordinary people” as well as “the super rich … to check in”.

So far, the smattering of customers appear to be delighted with Hanoi’s flashiest new digs. “When I arrived here … I felt like a king, you know, the Pharaoh … the king of Egypt,” said Phillip Park, from South Korea.

Vietnam’s swift lockdown in April helped it contain the spread of Covid-19. Earlier this week, its official count was 369 infections,

341 recoveries, and no deaths. Only citizens, foreigners on diplomatic or official business, and highly skilled workers are allowed to enter the country, and all arrivals must undergo medical checks and a 14-day quarantine.

Despite this, the hotel group saw no reason to delay the opening. In fact, Duong expressed confidence that 2021 would be golden. “For sure next year, we will make money,” he said.

See dolcehanoigoldenlake.com/en.