Danang, Vietnam, November 24, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Five-star sanctuary on Vietnam’s Son Tra Peninsula invites couples, families and groups to learn about the conservation of red-shanked douc langurs and support the preservation of indigenous flora and fauna InterContinental Danang creates bridges to allow red-shanked douc langurs to access their feeding grounds. InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, the five-star resort nestled in 39 hectares of nature on Vietnam’s Son Tra Peninsula, is a destination that helps travellers to connect with the environment, authentic local culture and each other. This commitment to building bridges is not only metaphorical, however; as part of the resort’s dedication to conservation, it has also helped to create a network of natural bridges to accommodate its most precious residents: the local community of red-shanked douc langurs.
• Discover Vietnam and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels at TOP25Hotels.com
Classified as “critically endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), red-shanked douc langurs are one of the world’s rarest species of primate. These beautiful creatures only live in central parts of Vietnam and Laos, and the largest numbers are found on the Son Tra Peninsula, the 3,000-square kilometre nature reserve on Vietnam’s central coast. According to the latest count, there are approximately 150 families with a total of 1,100 adults and 450 juveniles living in and around resort’s estate.
To ensure the survival of this important species, InterContinental Danang has developed a network of natural bridges and rope ladders to allow the red-shanked douc langurs to move freely around the forest and access their feeding grounds without coming into contact with the ground, where potential dangers such as poachers and predators may lie.
The hotel’s work is also woven into the guest experience with a regular series of wildlife workshops and guided tours to raise awareness about the resort’s activities and the importance of conservation. In recent weeks, InterContinental Danang has introduced a new experience for corporate groups: the planting of “feed trees” and new “monkey bridges” for the red-shanked douc langurs. With CSR now at the top of the agenda for many businesses, these meaningful initiatives help to create closer bonds between team members and have a lasting positive impact on the planet.
“At InterContinental Danang, we have always strived to connect our guests with the natural and cultural heritage of Central Vietnam. The creation of our monkey bridges is wonderfully symbolic; not only do they help our resident community of red-shanked douc langurs to move around the jungle; they also help to foster stronger bonds between loved ones, team members and the environment,” said Mr. Seif Hamdy, the resort’s General Manager.
The development of these natural bridges is just one of the ways that InterContinental Danang is helping to conserve wildlife. Sadly, poaching and trafficking are still the biggest threats to native species in Vietnam, so the resort has created a stricter security zone within the reserve. Dedicated staff also conduct regular perimeter walks to ensure that no paths have been made or traps laid by poachers.
Now, as part of a major transformation to mark its 10th anniversary in 2022, InterContinental Danang is preparing to launch a new Discovery Center. Set to open in mid-2023, this dedicated onsite conservation hub will allow visitors, staff and community groups to learn about the area’s wildlife and the resort’s latest environmental projects.
Alternatively, guests can immerse themselves in the tropical landscape with a two- to three-hour hike to an 800-year-old banyan tree, or even hike all the way to the peak of Son Tra Mountain, where they will be rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views. To discover the offshore ecosystems, travellers can go snorkelling in the pristine waters of Bai Bac Bay, or even learn how to steer a traditional Vietnamese basket boat. For younger explorers, Planet Trekkers Kids’ Club offers nature trails, outdoor games, sandcastle building and more, and all ages can discover local vegetables, herbs and spices at the resort’s organic garden.
So, whether you’re seeking a rewarding couple’s retreat, an educational and engaging family escape, or a meaningful group CSR activity, InterContinental Danang is the perfect destination to build bridges, forge close connections and make lasting memories.
• Discover Vietnam and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels at TOP25Hotels.com
About InterContinental Hotels & Resorts
The InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand makes travel alluring, with insights from 75 years of experience. Each of our properties provides a gateway to the glamour of the InterContinental Life. As a brand, we aim to embody global sophistication through our superior, understated service and exceptional amenities. What makes us truly different is the genuine interest we show our guests through personalised and attentive services. We offer our most valued guests signature VIP services through a dedicated InterContinental Ambassador programme and an exclusive Club InterContinental experience. We connect our well-travelled guests to what’s special about a destination, so they enjoy authentic local experiences that will enrich their lives.
About InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort
InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort is a 39-hectare paradise that blends personalised service and unparalleled amenities across four levels – Heaven, Sky, Earth and Sea – all linked by a funicular railway that rises up the forested hillside. Nestled on the spectacular natural preserve of the Son Tra Peninsula, north of Danang City, Vietnam, guests can enjoy culinary artistry at four restaurants and bars, including La Maison 1888, which is helmed by three Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire, soothe their senses at The Lagoon Spa, or simply unwind on the 700-metre-long beach. The Summit sets the stage for the world’s grandest gatherings and one-of-a-kind weddings, with a purpose-built auditorium, ballroom and multiple meeting spaces.
