Planning Perfect Golf Vacations
With your tour guide,
Anne P. Mitchell
| Summary: When it comes to planning golf vacations, think like the boy scouts: be prepared. A little bit of preparation in advance can ensure that your golf vacations provide maximum fun with minimum fuss. |
When it comes to planning golf vacations, think like the boy scouts: be prepared. A little bit of preparation in advance can ensure that your golf vacations provide maximum fun with minimum fuss.
The first step to planning the perfect golf vacation is knowing how much you have to spend. If cash is not a problem, start thinking about an all-inclusive, international destination such as Scotland or Italy. If that’s out of your range, the next best option is a similar package in the US. From California to Hawaii to Las Vegas, you’re bound to find something that fits both your style and budget. While all-inclusive packages may seem expensive at first, they often save you money on hotel stays, so it may be worth it to spend the extra cash up front.
Next, consider your golf companions. Are you traveling alone, with other golfers, or with your family? What is the skill level of the various players? If you’re just starting out but all the other players are intermediate golfers, the trip will probably not be as much fun for you. Will some of you need instruction? Should you consider a golf school vacation rather than a golf resort?
Be sure to think about what else you or your companions might want to do during the vacation. Is golf the only goal of the trip or would you like to do some sightseeing along the way? If you’re interested in a particular golf destination, the local Chamber of Commerce or convention bureau may be able to provide you with information about additional activities, especially if you’re traveling with non-golfers. And some golf packages now offer “play & see” trips, with half-day sightseeing tours included in the price.
The more research you do up front, the more you will avoid unpleasant surprises when you get there, so take time to explore all of your options. Make sure that sleeping accommodations are not more than 30 minutes away from the golf course, that transportation is available (unless you plan to rent a car while you’re there), and that you’re comfortable with the services offered. If you’re creating your own package, work out an itinerary beforehand.
And before you commit to anything, make sure that you understand what’s included in any package and what extras are available for a fee. Some things may not be so obvious, such as transportation to and from the course, meals, and golf cart rental fees. Consider the minor things too. For example, what happens in case of bad weather? Do you get a partial refund for the days you can’t play or are they lost?
Don’t leave your golf vacation up to chance. A well-planned getaway will guarantee that you and your companions will enjoy both the golf and the trip.
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