Pinehurst Golf Resort

For the third straight year GOLF MAGAZINE chose the Pinehurst Golf Resort as the “Best Golf Resort In America.”  With eight world-class courses and the Pinehurst Golf Academy, the historic resort offers an unparalleled golf experience.

The course that Bobby Jones once called the “St. Andrews of United States Golf,” has witnessed some of the greatest golf dramas in history; including Ben Hogan’s first PGA win.

Overnight rates start at $229.00 with several packages available.  The ”Buddy Trip of a Lifetime” package includes 3 days and 2 nights, unlimited golf, breakfast and dinner daily, one steak & lobster dinner, unlimited spa services, a $50.00 gift card and much more.  The package is $2,300 double occupancy.  For more information call 800 487-4653 or visit www.pinehurst.com.

Desert Golf

photo credit: danperry.com   If you are planning a southwestern golf vacation and are unfamiliar with playing in the desert, there are certain things to be aware of to make your golf experience more enjoyable.

Its a good idea to carry at least one “desert club” (a beater) in your bag.  Hitting one of your brand new irons off the rocky terrain can be hard on your wallet.  Be careful not to brush or bump into cactus plants, doing so can ruin your day.  In hot weather, watch for rattlesnakes when looking for lost balls.  Drink plenty of water, if its not hot, its still very dry in the desert.  Bring rain gear and a sweater for sudden desert showers.  Make sure to use sunblock, desert sun is very intense.

Group Travel Tips

photo credit: avlxyz   Going on a golf vacation with a group of 8 or more fellow golfers can be very frustrating unless plans are established in advance.  Every group needs a person that will not only coordinate travel plans but make decisions when on location.  Sometimes, not everyone in the group will agree but it does prevents squabbles.

Travel Tips: (1) Designate one individual to make all travel arrangements including plane, hotel and tee time reservations.  (2) Form a committee (3 people) to settle any controversies that arise.  (3) Collect all wages before the round begins.  (4) Be very selective about inviting a new member to your group.    (5) When on location, don’t always travel as a group.  (6) Make travel plans for the following year before ending your present vacation.

Golf Texas

photo credit: foxypar4 Horshoe Bay Resort is located in the Texas hill country on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. The Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed course rambles through the beautiful south Texas hill country with stunning view of the Gulf.

The Unlimited Golf Getaway includes unlimited golf and cart on three 18 hole championship layouts. You can choose between hotel, villa or condo lodgings for $168.00 per person, per night based on double occupancy (there is a two night minimum stay). The package also includes the use of a putting course and a daily breakfast at the Lantana Grill. For reservations 877 611-0112 or www.hsbresort.com.

Texas is one of the most underated golfing destinations in the continental US but that “Texas hospitality” will keep you coming back for more.

Golf In Puerto Rico

With lush vegetation, emerald blue water and a perfect tropical climate Puerto Rico has it all including some of the most beautiful golf courses in the world. The Rio Mar Beach Resort and Spa in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico offers one of the best resorts on the island.

Enjoy yourself with umbrella drinks, a casino, and a state of the art health spa at Rio Mar.
The resort course was designed by Tom Fazio and Greg Norman and is set in some of the most scenic locations on the island. For reservations 877 636-0636 or www.wyndhamriomar.com

The Unlimited Golf Package features a room with balcony, daily breakfast for two in the Marbella restaurant and unlimited golf including taxes and fees. The packages start at $559.00 per room based on double occupancy. The rates are good through December 20, 2008.

Golfing Fun In The Sun

With the onset of winter it’s time for snowbirds to start planning their golf vacations to sunland.
Hawaii is one of those wonderful golf destinations that can place you in a lush, green, tropical paradise. The Four Seasons Resort, on the big island of Hawaii, is worth considering.

The Four Season rates begin at $980.00 per night for all the golf you can play at the Jack Nicklaus designed Hualalai golf course. The “unlimited” golf package includes golf, rooms and breakfast. There are also complimentary golf clinics, non alcoholic beverages and rental clubs available at no extra charge. The golf package runs through December 18, 2008. For your winter golf vacation in paradise, make your reservations at ph: 236-3026 or at wwwfourseasons.com.