Class Goes Hand in Hand with National Dignity

Gold Phuc Hotel, Lao PDR (Five Green Stars). (Photo: Gold Phuc)

Class Goes Hand in Hand with National Dignity

WAJ: Hello, Mrs. Minh Huong! First, could you share a bit about the newly established Gold Phuc Hotel? Where did the idea for this project come from?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: Hello to the readers and the esteemed publication! Our hotel, Gold Phuc, is the first five-star green hotel in Laos. It is not only a luxurious retreat but also a symbol of sustainable development in the country. The inspiration for this project stemmed from my passion for tourism and my desire to create a high-end resort while still preserving the environment. I firmly believe that tourism should not sacrifice nature for comfort; rather, the two can coexist harmoniously.

WAJ: What motivated you to invest in an eco-friendly hotel instead of a traditional one?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: In recent years, sustainable tourism has been a growing global trend, yet it remains relatively new in Laos. I wanted our hotel to be more than just a luxurious destination—I wanted it to be an integral part of the green ecosystem, where guests could relax without negatively impacting the environment.

WAJ: What specific standards helped your hotel earn the five green stars certification?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: To achieve this prestigious certification, we adhered to a strict set of sustainability standards, including:

Renewable Energy Usage – The hotel primarily operates on solar energy and an intelligent energy-saving system.
Water and Waste Management – Water is efficiently treated and reused, and plastic waste is minimized as much as possible.
Eco-Friendly Design – The architecture maximizes natural light and ventilation to reduce electricity consumption.
Environmental Conservation Programs – We collaborate with local communities to protect the surrounding ecosystem.

WAJ: Gold Phuc Hotel is the first Vietnamese-owned hotel in Laos to receive the Green 5-Star certification. Do you think that class should go hand in hand with national dignity?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: Yes, I believe so as well. This is a great honor for us. In addition to business, we are always aware of the importance of nurturing the image and national dignity of the Vietnamese people abroad. We constantly strive to contribute to the development of the socio-economic situation of our second homeland, thereby strengthening the friendship between Vietnam and Laos.

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong on a business trip to Europe (Photo: NVCC)

Architecture & Sustainable Design

WAJ: What elements in the hotel’s design make it environmentally friendly?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: The entire architectural concept follows a green model, optimizing natural ventilation and using sustainable materials such as recycled wood, natural stone, and low-energy glass. Each room is equipped with an intelligent air-conditioning system to conserve electricity and reduce carbon emissions.

WAJ: What technologies have you and your team implemented to minimize environmental impact?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: We utilize solar energy, a biological water filtration system, and energy-saving appliances. Additionally, the hotel has adopted a zero-plastic waste policy.

WAJ: Are there any unique aspects of the building materials used?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: We prioritize locally sourced materials to reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation.

Sunset view at Gold Phuc Hotel (Photo: Gold Phuc)

Amenities & Guest Experience

WAJ: What unique experiences can guests expect when staying at your hotel?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: Our hotel is more than just a place to stay—it offers a holistic green lifestyle experience. We are located within one of the largest golf resorts in Laos, spanning 550 hectares. However, our hotel only occupies a small portion of this area, with the rest dedicated to green spaces. Guests can indulge in organic cuisine made from sustainably sourced ingredients.

WAJ: Does the hotel offer any programs to encourage guests to adopt a greener lifestyle?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: Yes! We have a carbon footprint reduction program, encourage guests to use bicycles or electric vehicles within the premises, participate in tree-planting activities, and attend environmental awareness workshops.

WAJ: How has been the feedback of the guests?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: Extremely positive! Many guests have shared that they truly feel the difference when staying at a green hotel, where nature and modern comfort blend seamlessly.

WAJ: Does the hotel plan to collaborate with international organizations or participate in global green hotel networks?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: We are committed to sustainability and environmental protection. We are actively exploring collaborations with international organizations to host Zero Carbon conferences and Green Earth protection initiatives. Additionally, we aim to join global green hotel networks to elevate our standards and reinforce our dedication to environmental sustainability.

Impact on Tourism & Society

WAJ: What does this five green stars recognition mean for the tourism industry in Laos?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: This marks a major milestone for Laotian tourism, paving the way for sustainable and eco-friendly travel while attracting international visitors who value environmental conservation.

WAJ: Do you believe your hotel can influence the future of sustainable tourism in Laos?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: Absolutely! I hope this hotel serves as an inspiration for other businesses, fostering a more responsible and sustainable tourism industry.

WAJ: Does your hotel engage in any community-based initiatives?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: Yes! We actively collaborate with local households, support community-based tourism, and help them develop sustainable handicraft products to be sold at the hotel.

View of Gold Phuc Hotel (Photo: Gold Phuc)

Future Vision

WAJ: Do you have plans to expand this model?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: Yes! We are planning to expand our sustainable and low-carbon resort model in Laos. We also welcome partnerships with both local and international investors to develop eco-friendly destinations at the right time.

WAJ: What advice would you give to young Businesswomans looking to invest in sustainable hospitality?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: Always prioritize quality and sustainability. Sustainable development is not just a trend; it is a responsibility that every business should embrace.

WAJ: Lastly, do you have any message for travelers?

Businesswoman Pham Thi Minh Huong: I hope that visitors will not only come here to enjoy their stay but also become part of the journey to protect the environment, helping us spread green tourism values across Laos and the world.

WAJ: Thank you very much!