Golf
Getaways
Make your travel plans now, and
be prepared to go!
by Ed Holbrook
Tips
In the immortal words of beloved cartoon character Snuffy Smith,
"TIME'S- A-WASTIN!"
If this is your year to do the golf traveling you've always wanted
to do, you'd best be making your plans and booking your trips. It's
not a minute too early (and in some cases, it may be too late
already!). The most important TIP I have for you is BOOK IT NOW! Do
you want to attend a golf tournament...or is a leisurely journey
through the famous old courses in Scotland your cup of tea? Whatever
your choice, the advice is the same...BOOK IT NOW!
Golf galleries at major events have grown ever bigger in recent
years, making tickets and lodging bigger challenges. This year, the
"Tiger Factor" is sending attendance figures through the roof, so if
you plan to see the "Phenom" in action up close and personal, plan
now and plan carefully.
Gentle Reminders
Just to jog your memory, the dates and places of golf's 1997
biggest events are as follows (and I don't have to tell you how time
flies...they'll be here before you know it!):
The Masters - April 7-13
Augusta, Georgia
Augusta National will be its beautiful self and Nick Faldo will
defend his title. It's very late to make Masters arrangements but if
you really want to go, get to a golf travel professional today. It
doesn't hurt to ask. Start planning NOW for 1998!
U.S. Open - June 12-15
Congressional Country Club, Bethesda, Maryland
Steve Jones completed his comeback from a finger injury to be the
surprise winner last year. Who will provide our Father's Day
excitement this year?
British Open - July 17-20
Royal Troon Golf Club, Ayrshire,Scotland
Mark Calcavecchia won the last time this event was played at
Troon. Will an American take the Claret Jug again this year?
Ryder Cup - September 23-29
Valderrama, Spain
This is the famous cup's first trek to sunny Spain and reports are
that travel and lodging will be difficult and prices are going up
daily. Being part of the Ryder Cup drama will be worth it...but don't
hesitate another day to lock in your reservations. Wouldn't you love
to say, "I was there when the cup came back to America?
Play your own game
Creating your own group, mapping out the itinerary of your dreams
and having your own tournaments as you go makes a fun trip. Golf
travel professionals can help you plan your time and your
destinations to best advantage and arrange side trips and shopping
excursions for the non-golfers who love to tag along. Scotland and
Ireland are golf heaven from May to October; Spain's Costa Del Sol is
nice any time of year (although mid-summer may get pretty warm)...the
world is full of terrific places to play golf and travel at the same
time. Check it out!
Tidbits
Rotarians should know that the Rotary International convention is
mid-June in Glasgow, Scotland. What a time to find your game in
Scotland and Ireland, either before or after the convention...or
both!
Get in shape! Whatever your golf travel plans...attendance at a
tournament or playing at some far-away course...chances are you'll be
doing a lot of walking. Get out of that cart and get those legs
ready!
Plan a small wardrobe that will fit in a small suitcase. The
general rule of thumb is...you brought it, you tote it. Also, obtain
a lightweight carry bag for your clubs. You may end up carrying your
own because caddies may not be available.
Remember, everything is an adventure! Brush up on your best "roll
with the punches" attitude and take it with you wherever you go!
Travel is life's greatest adventure, and to be able to travel and
enjoy golf at the same time is the ultimate good time. Take some time
today to decide what your vacation desires are and...BOOK IT NOW!
Ed Holbrook is a golf travel connoisseur in his spare time, as
well as by occupation. He is the South Florida Rep for SGH Golf Inc.,
providers of custom, worldwide golf travel packages. You can reach Ed
by calling 561-770-2222 or 800-785-7180.
edh@floridagolfing.com
