Orlando's Shingle Creek Golf Club Combines Chip and Sip Into The Perfect Golfing Twosome

It'll be a marvelous day and evening of Sauvignon Blanc and birdies and Pinot and pars (along, likely, with a nice Cabernet or two) when Shingle Creek Golf Club hosts Chip and Sip, the perfect blending of Chardonnay and couples.

Chip and Sip combines the fineness of a long-stemmed wine glass with the sturdiness of a long-stemmed golf tee. Couples play a 9-hole late-afternoon golf outing at the acclaimed Shingle Creek Golf Club and then adjourn to another acclaimed location, A Land Remembered classic steakhouse, for après golf festiveness of a reception and wine tasting.

A Land Remembered is located in the Shingle Creek Golf Clubhouse, adjacent to Orlando's newest luxury hotel, the AAA Four Diamond Rosen Shingle Creek. The restaurant has been drawing rave reviews since opening this past June.

The first Chip and Sip will be on Friday, November 2 at 4 pm - the perfect day to finish's the weekend's unwinding - while the other will be Saturday, December 15 at 3 pm - the perfect day to unwind from a hard week's work.

Chip and Sip is $69 plus tax. A Land Remembered will help make the occasion even more memorable as couples staying for dinner after the Chip and Sip will get 20 percent off their dinner bill. For reservations for Chip and Sip, call 407-996-9933. For reservations for post-golf dining at A Land Remembered, call 407-996-FOOD (3663).

A Land Remembered, named for the famed Patrick Smith novel about Florida's rich history, is enriching gastronomes with its stature as a classic American steakhouse. The long-awaited steakhouse serves Prime Beef. The menu features Harris Ranch Five Diamond Black Angus Prime, which has been a leader in the foodservice industry for more than 30 years.

Leading top-quality choices include an 8-or 10 oz. Filet Mignon with Roasted Garlic and Fried Green Tomatoes, a 24-oz. Chiefland Porterhouse with Burgundy Mushrooms and Vidalia Onion Gravy, and a Slow-Roasted 12- or 24-oz. cut of Prime Rib with Fresh Horseradish and Au Jus. Tempting steak toppings like Crab and Rock Shrimp, Oregon Blue Cheese, Béarnaise Sauce, and Sauce Au Poivre turn the special into the spectatular. For those who love to Surf and Turf - as well as Chip and Sip - try combining a Filet or the New York Strip with a 1-Pound Cold Water Lobster Tail.

There are unique house specialties including Spit Roasted Hacked Duck with Lavender and Honey Glaze, Key West Seafood Au Gratin with Baked Lobster, Scallops and Shrimp and the Tobias Braised Short Ribs served with Roasted Root Vegetables. For the seafood lover, there are original dishes like Red Snapper Basted with Cilantro Butter, Wild Salmon Basted with Herbed Lemon Oil or Pan Seared Diver Scallops with Sweet Potato Polenta.

For those loyal to Florida tradition, there are starters like the Cajun-Spiced Little Creek Frog Legs in a Mango Rum Glaze and the Cypress Scallops with Kiwi Jam and Crispy Pancetta. Where's there's starters, there are also finishers, like a creative homemade dessert of Banana Cream Pie and a delicious Chocolate Filet which even has grill marks like it was cooked on a grill. Traditionalists can choose from Strawberry Cheesecake, Pioneer Napolean, Homemade Ice Cream or a savory Cheese Plate.

In June 2005, Shingle Creek Golf Club was named a "Top 40 Best New Course" by Golfweek magazine. The David Harman designed course features undulating fairways and interconnecting waterways bordered by the natural backdrop of dense oaks and pines along historic Shingle Creek. Shingle Creek Golf Club features a state-of-the-art practice facility, the Brad Brewer Golf Academy, a world-class clubhouse, golf carts with UpLink GPS yardage system, complimentary valet parking, full-service golf shop, and club and shoe rentals.

Rosen Shingle Creek is located at 9939 Universal Blvd., Orlando, Fla., just ten minutes from the Orlando International Airport, one mile from the Orlando/Orange County Convention Center and minutes from the International Drive shopping, dining and attractions district.

For more information, visit www.rosenshinglecreek.com or call (866) 996-9939.

KPMG: South Africa, Turkey and Dubai set to become new golf holiday hot spots

Spain and Portugal could be overtaken, say tour operators and golf course architects, in two exclusive surveys by KPMG Golf Advisory Services
South Africa, Turkey and Dubai could overtake Spain and Portugal as the most popular destinations for golf holidays, according to two exclusive surveys conducted by KPMG Golf Advisory Services.

More than 70 tour operators and 50 golf course architects in Europe, the Middle East and Africa were interviewed for the surveys.

When asked which countries or regions had the most potential to become significant golf tourism destinations, both the tour operators and golf course architects tipped South Africa, Turkey and Dubai for future growth. And while golf tour operators anticipated continued growth in the established markets of Spain and Portugal, they were also seen to be the most threatened by the emerging golf destinations.

Andrea Sartori, head of KPMG's specialist Golf Advisory Services Team for the EMA region, said: "The golf industry as a whole is likely to benefit from the continued growth of the broader travel and tourism industry. However, the traditional golf markets of Europe and North America can expect increasing competition from the emerging golf destinations that offer high quality golfing experiences at affordable prices."

The Caribbean and Latin America were also seen as emerging golf destinations. Ireland, Scotland and England were viewed as the most 'stable' markets over the next 10-15 years.

Overall, 33 per cent of golf tour operators said they expected 'spectacular' growth in the golf travel market over the next 15 years, while 56 per cent believed there would be 'steady' growth. Eleven per cent expected the market to stagnate.

"The results confirm the changing face of the travel and tourism industry, boosted by more frequent travel, lower air fares, greater accessibility of new destinations, plus increases in family travel and sports and activity based holidays," added Andrea Sartori.

KPMG Golf Advisory Services is part of KPMG's Central and Eastern European Real Estate, Leisure and Tourism practice, and will publish its second annual Golf Benchmark Survey in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMA) region in December 2007 (http://www.golfbenchmark.com>www.golfbenchmark.com http://www.golfbenchmark.com>www.golfbenchmark.com> ).

UTour Golf and GOLF.com Team up to Offer a Trip for Two to the Michael Jordan Celebrity Golf Invitational

TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--UTour Golf, the world’s most rewarding virtual golf experience, is giving players a new chance to win big with The GOLF.com Challenge. Groove Media and GOLF.com have joined forces to offer a trip for two to the 2008 Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational in the Bahamas. Players can enter The GOLF.com Challenge by playing in designated golf tournaments at www.utourGolf.com from October 27 to November 4, 2007.

“Our relationship with GOLF.com gives UTour players yet another reason to visit the virtual links,” said Jon Walsh, CEO of Groove Media Inc. “A trip to the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational is a golf fan’s dream, and it’s just the kind of high-value prize that UTour players can expect to compete for in the coming months.”

The Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational takes place January 16-20, 2008 at the Ocean Club Golf Course at Paradise Island in the Bahamas. The winner will receive a GOLF.com sponsored trip for two, including round trip airfare, accommodations at the Atlantis hotel on Paradise Island, access to the Celebrity Invitational and exclusive charity party and one round of golf.

By playing in designated tournaments at www.utourGolf.com, players will earn entries into a random drawing for a chance to win. Tournaments start at 12:01 a.m. EDT October 27, 2007 and end at 11:59 p.m. EDT November 4, 2007. Complete details are available here (http://www.utourgolf.com/golfmjci/index.html).

Advertising on the site allows UTour Golf to offer players a top quality online golf experience free of charge. In turn, UTour delivers advertisers unparalleled access to the highly sought after male 18-34 demographic - a targeted and measurable way of reaching their intended audience. UTour’s ad-serving technology utilizes pre-game videos, sponsored events and tournaments, and customizable in-game ads to deliver the most powerful promotional opportunities available in online gaming.

About GOLF.com

GOLF.com combines the resources of GOLF Magazine and Sports Illustrated’s Golf Plus to bring golfers and fans of the game the most comprehensive online destination for news, instruction, equipment and courses & travel. Highlights include:

Up-to-the-minute coverage of every PGA Tour event, with exclusive material from SI and GOLF.

Customizable leader board with hole-by-hole results and links to player profiles and statistics.

Unrivaled coverage of the latest in golf equipment to give you an edge on the competition.

Free video lessons from the Top 100 Teachers at GOLF Magazine.

GOLF columnist David Feherty’s original video commentary, Fly on the Ball.
Top-notch guide to the resorts and courses, including maps, satellite photos and driving directions for more than 20,000 destinations.
About the SI Golf Group

GOLF Magazine is at the core of the most powerful media company in the game, the SI GOLF GROUP. The magazine, which delivers a monthly circulation of 1.4 million golf enthusiasts and a readership of 6 million, provides the best instruction, equipment reviews and travel coverage in the category. With the combined resources of GOLF, SI’s Golf Plus and their home on the web, GOLF.com, the SI GOLF GROUP delivers a monthly audience of 13 million avid golfers and fans. GOLF Magazine is published by TIME INC., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc.

About UTour Golf

UTour Golf is the world’s first free online full-featured golf video game. Players of all levels can download the game in minutes and tee off online against competitors for fun or cash prizes. Courses are inspired by golfing locations from around the world and offer multiple game rules including traditional Stroke Play and Match Play. Every game offers a new challenge with game variables that include dynamic wind and weather conditions, variable pin and tee block placements and even variable green speed and rough length. To play, visit www.utourGolf.com.

About Groove Media Inc.

Headquartered in Toronto, Canada with offices in Dublin, Ireland, Groove Media Inc. is a global publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software. Groove's mission is to revolutionize the video gaming industry by combining traditional video games, skill gaming and e-commerce. For more information, visit www.groovegames.com.

Discover Classic Mountain Golf at Pole Creek

Discover Classic Mountain Golf at Pole Creek
By Adam Morien | On May 4, 2007 | In Golf | 220 Viewings | Rated
Elevate your golf game and your spirit. Pole Creek Golf Club is everything a Colorado mountain golf course should be. Stunning alpine views, drastic elevation changes, cool clear mountain air and the right amount of quiet and solitude make Pole Creek a Colorado classic; a mountain course like no other.


Elevate your golf game and your spirit. Pole Creek Golf Club is everything a Colorado golf" href="http://www.polecreekgolf.com" target=_blank>mountain golf course should be. Stunning alpine views, drastic elevation changes, cool clear mountain air and the right amount of quiet and solitude make Pole Creek a Colorado classic; a mountain course like no other.

Our patio is surrounded by dazzling perennial and annual flowers and has the best view in the county. Directly in front of the Club House, we offer excellent practice facilities with a Putting Green, Driving Range and Chipping Green.

The Club House at Pole Creek Golf Course
Club House Hours of Operation:
7:00am - 8:00pm
Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Book your next tournament at Pole Creek and prepare to be awed by the Club's alpine beauty and an expert staff experienced with operating smooth and fun events. We offer amenities and professional services sure to keep your guests happy and returning year-after-year.

Amenities:
• 27 Championship Holes
• On-Site Catering with Clubhouse and Beverage Cart Service
• PGA Certified Professional Staff
• Full-Service Tournament Organizing
• Practice Facilities include Grass Driving Range, Putting Green
• Separate Chipping Green with Sand Bunker
• Rental Clubs for Men, Women and Children
• Private Tented Area for Awards Party or Banquet
• Upper Deck Patio for Private Cocktail Parties

Professional Services
• Cart and Hole Assignments
• Handicapping
• List of Participants
• On-Course Events
• Personalized Local Rules Sheet
• Placement of Proximity Markers
• Registration Table Set-up with Optional Check-In Service
• Scoring Services
• Score Sheets
• Tournament Pairings
• Welcome Speech

Pole Creek Golf Club Awards
2006 – Zagat Survey – Best course to play in the Rocky Mountain Region including CO, ID, MT, NV, UT & WY.

2005 – Avid Golfer Magazine:
1. 5th best course to bring out of town guests
2. Best Finishing hole #9 Ridge
3. 2nd Place – Best Public Mountain Course
4. 3rd Place – Best Golf Course in the $50-$99 range
5. 4th Place – Most Scenic Course (public or Resort)
6. 3rd Place – Most underrated Golf Course (public or resort)
2004 – Denver Post, Colorado Peaks – Best Mountain Golf Course
2003 – Rocky Mountain News – Top Mountain Golf Course – Top of the Rockies Award
1995 – Golf Digest – Americas 500 best places you can play – Colorado #1 Pole Creek
1990 – Golf Digest – Americas Best 75 Public Golf Courses Pole Creek rated in the top 75
1988 – Golf Digest – Americas Best 75 Public Golf Courses Pole Creek rated in the top 50
1985 – Golf Digest – Best New Public Golf Course

Treat yourself to 27 holes of Classic Mountain Golf on three distinct courses: The Ranch , The Meadow and The Ridge (see descriptions below). Pole Creek's Golf resort in Colorado" href="http://www.polecreekgolf.com" target=_blank>Golf resort in Colorado was designed by Denis Griffiths, who incorporated existing lodgepole pine, valley meadows, sagebrush and a variety of water hazards including five lakes to create a diverse course appealing to a wide range of golfers.

The Ranch 9 and The Meadow 9 wander through lush fields, while The Ridge 9 showcases what golf pro JT Thompson calls "the most spectacular view in Colorado."

Ranch
The Ranch has a variety of terrain, with Pole Creek meandering through the course. The Ridge has a serene setting with views that can only be described as breathtaking, combined with only two holes where players will be able to see other golfers.

Meadow
The Meadow is a nice blend of tree-lined and open holes that cross Pole Creek and two lakes several times. The Ranch has a variety of terrain, with Pole Creek meandering through the course.

Ridge
The Ridge has a serene setting with views that can only be described as breathtaking, combined with only two holes where players will be able to see other golfers.

For the non-golfer, Pole Creek is minutes from endless Rocky Mountain adventures. Enjoy white water rafting, hiking, fishing and boating, mountain biking, rodeo, horseback riding , or simply spend your day shopping, dining and relaxing. Colorado's crown jewel, Rocky Mountain National Park is minutes away and Winter Park Resort offers fun for the whole family just 12 miles away.

Contact Pole Creek's friendly staff for assistance with reserving tee times, planning a golf vacation, and organizing events, tournaments and weddings.

Pole Creek and Winter Park are located 67 miles from Denver. Take I-70 West to Exit 232 onto U.S. 40, then follow U.S. 40 to Winter Park. Pole Creek is 11 miles beyond the Town of Winter Park. Turn left at the 220 mile marker and follow the signs to the course where you can begin your Golf Vacation" href="http://www.polecreekgolf.com" target=_blank>Colorado Golf Vacation.

Golf Club" href="http://www.polecreekgolf.com" target=_blank>Pole Creek Golf Club
6827 County Road 51
Tabernash CO 80478
Telephone: 970-887-9195
Toll Free: 800-511-5076
info@polecreekgolf.com

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 3348
Winter Park, CO 80482

Take A Shot At One Of Ireland's Pride, The Beaufort Golf Club

The competition to be regarded as among the best golf

The competition to be regarded as among the best golf courses in Ireland is fierce. Ina country where there is only about 6 million people, Ireland has about 410 golf courses that caters to golfers from all over the world. They offer both parkland and links golf courses and is a premier golf vacation spot where game styles and accommodations vary. Situated in Killarney and is a part of the Churchtown Estate, the Beaufort Golf Club is a parkland championship course that is engulfed by the renowned McGillycuddy Reeks Mountains that provides spectacular scenery laden all throughout the course. Along the scenic views, the ruins of the Castle Core sit beside the 13th green. Entering the course, you will see two hundred year old trees lined up. With its exceptional mild climate and the natural drainage of this par 71 course, playing in the Beaufort Golf Club will most certainly be very enjoyable. The first nine holes can be found at the west side of the avenue while its back nine provides more eye candy as they are nearer to the highest mountains in Ireland on the south side. Measuring 6,587 yards, the Beaufort Golf Club is a great alternative for the many beautiful link courses that abound in Ireland.
You could also lounge around in their cozy clubhouse that permeates an aura of mixture of tradition, history and modern developments. The clubhouse is easily located being nearby to the main house of the club. Beyond it is a formal rose garden and inside the clubhouse, you will be able to see the practice putting green. Here you will be able to find many facilities that you could go to for all your golf needs, fine dining or maybe just a couple of pints of Guinness. Just 4 miles from Killarney, Ireland's most vibrant town, the site for the Beaufort Golf Club is in a valley that was said to be created 10,000 years ago by the Ice Age. Getting there is easy but living the warm welcome and the great environment can be pretty hard. You and your family will be able to enjoy a golf vacation together. It doesn’t matter if not all of you plays golf. The rich culture and history of Ireland and the town of Killarney coupled with its many fine dining restaurants and countless points of interest can cater to all the needs of the group.
The nearby Killarney golf course also can offer you an alternative choice as you can alternate from each course to the other for variation. Both are just stone's throw away from the town of Killarney and can be easily gone to everyday. After your round of golf, you can just go back to the town, dress up and explore the many wonders and forms of entertainment that the town offers. Going to Ireland for a golf vacation trip can be quite costly. But with all the wondrous sites, great accommodations and the warm welcome you will get will make every penny spent truly well worth it. You can check out the internet for contact information to the Beaufort Golf Club or you can just visit their website. You may also talk to your local travel agency or to any other online agency to see about travel golf packages to Ireland.

About The Author: Edwin Shackleford has been helping individuals improve thier golf game for years. Visit His Site Today golf-game.com href="http://www.improve-your-golf-game.com" target=_blank>http://www.improve-your-golf-game.com

Mix Fun With Instruction With Orlando Golf Schools

When you mention the word Orlando golf schools don't generally come to mind first. The first things you think about are Disney World, vacations and lying in the sun. And why not, because these are what Orlando revolves around.


When you mention the word Orlando golf schools don't generally come to mind first. The first things you think about are Disney World, vacations and lying in the sun. And why not, because these are what Orlando revolves around.

However, when it comes to golf schools, Orlando has most of the best and many of the rest. The Bird Golf School is here and Brad Brewer, not to mention Arnold Palmer. If you are looking for golf instruction you have lots of choice in Orlando. Not only that, but Orlando provides you with all the facilities you could ever need for a family vacation.

Combine Golf Coaching with a Family vacation in Orlando

If your golf game has been going off the boil lately, and the greens and the holes seem a bit smaller than normal, perhaps you could do with a bit of coaching. Maybe you have lost length on your drive after an illness or injury and need some guidance on how best to get your game back on par. You may also want to fit that in with a family vacation; somewhere that the rest of the family can get out of your way while you get your problem solved, and also give you some time to yourself on the golf course.

If any of these scenarios fit you then Orlando is the ideal choice. Not only do you have a wide choice of golf schools in Orlando, but you also have the ideal resort for a family vacation. There are golf schools that help you overcome any problem that you have with your game, whether something has gone wrong with your swing or you need some rehabilitation after an injury. You can even arrange one on one individual golf lessons if that is what you need.

The Children are Easily Entertained in Orlando

Entertainment, of course, is not a problem in Orlando. You have just about everything you could want to keep everybody entertained, day and night. The children will be delighted with Disney World and SeaWorld and the shopping is fabulous. You will be able to get out on the course after your golf lesson and relax while the rest of your family take in everything else that Orlando has to offer.


In the evening there are lots to do, and child minding facilities are available in most hotels and resort accommodation. There is absolutely no reason why you should not enjoy a complete family vacation in Orlando and return home with your golf problems all ironed out, ready for the new season and to make the rest of your foursome look on with amazement as you blast that ball 300 yards off the first tee.

There are so many Orlando golf schools available that you will find exactly what you need to sort out whatever problem that you have. It does not matter if it is a technical problem or a physical one, or whether you have had an injury or illness that is forcing you to change the way you play the game. There is something for you in Orlando, and something for your family.

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About the Author
For more golf-trainer.com/golf-schools/orlando-golf-schools.html">Orlando Golf Schools information, visit Golf-Trainer.com today!

Professional Golfer Jason Buha Opens Golf Academy at Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

When golfers at Ross Bridge start playing better and getting lower scores, they may have a secret weapon - Buha Golf Academy. Founded by Jason Buha, a former PGA Tour player, Nationwide Tour Champion, and Collegiate All-American, the Buha Golf Academy offers innovative golf instruction in a picturesque setting.

Located at Renaissance Ross Bridge Alabama Golf Resort & Spa, the Buha Golf Academy offers individual and group lessons to everyone from beginning golfers to LPGA professionals. Located at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail's newest resort, the Buha Golf Academy appeals to both corporate meeting groups and individual leisure guests.

"From beginning golfers to top touring professionals, I am establishing this academy to offer state-of-the-art golfing instruction along with a wonderful resort experience," said Buha. "And just as the Retirement Systems of Alabama has put Alabama on the map as a destination for the best collection of public golf courses in the world, my goal is to complement this with the highest level of golf instruction."

Structured like many of the nation's leading golf academies, the Buha Golf Academy offers personal one-on-one sessions; one- to three-day mini schools and retreats; junior camps, and custom corporate clinics. The academy's programs incorporate the latest technology including comprehensive computer and video analysis, a club fitting evaluation, as well as a specific plan for ongoing improvement designed to enhance a player's full swing and their short game. For more advanced students looking to "build a lifelong game", playing lessons and a player's school focus on playing and scoring.

After playing at Ross Bridge during a practice session while on the Nationwide Tour, Buha realized that the high profile course would be an ideal location for his academy. According to Buha, Ross Bridge is the perfect course for the academy because instruction packages will cater to every level of player. "From the beginner to the tour player, Ross Bridge has an awesome playability…and that's the sign of a great resort golf course," Buha said.

"It has been proven that more business can happen in four to five hours on the golf course than through just about any other outlet," said Buha. "When you're playing golf, you get to know the personalities of those you're playing with. It's just a great vehicle for business and I hope to reach out to Alabama companies as well as others visiting our state to help them grow through unique golfing experiences for their employees, top executives, sales staff, and clients." Renaissance Ross Bridge is committed to maintaining its status as the top Birmingham, Alabama convention center hotel.

While Buha is a native of Farmington Hills, Mich., his wife is from Alabama and the couple always knew they would eventually call Alabama home. "While the competitiveness and notoriety of being on tour and winning a Nationwide championship was the experience of a lifetime, I always knew that the life of a professional golfer wouldn't allow me to commit completely to my family, which has always been first," Buha said. "Being able to stay connected intimately with golf and do it from home here in Alabama is a wonderful opportunity."

Experience the world-class golf amidst the luxurious setting of Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa and turn a golf trip into an amazing Birmingham, Alabama vacation

Buha Golf Academy is located at Ross Bridge; 4000 Grand Avenue; Hoover, AL 35226. Reservations for private sessions, group lessons, junior camps, corporate clinics and a variety of custom golf schools can be booked by calling (205) 837-5871.

About the Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa
Retreat to the beautiful rolling hills of a Birmingham, AL hotel secluded from everyday cares, yet close to a vibrant city at the Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa. The plush guest rooms at this Hoover, Alabama hotel include balconies overlooking stunning grounds and a signature pool featuring enchanting waterfalls and fountains. This Birmingham, Alabama resort features a Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail course highlighted by sweeping majestic views of the surrounding foothills. Stimulate your senses at the lavish 12,000 square foot European spa, exclusively designed to ensure complete relaxation and tranquility. Experience Renaissance Ross Bridge and discover a delightful escape at this remarkable resort town and luxury hotel in Birmingham, Alabama. For more information or to make a reservation, call (800) 593-6419, or visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bhmhv-renaissance-ross-bridge-golf-resort-and-spa/

Torrevieja Spain: Relax, Shop, Golf And Enjoy

Torrevieja, Spain is located a little over thirty miles south Alicante along the Costa Blanca coastline. It is in the Province of Alicante situated half way between Alicante and Cartegena and east of Murcia. No different than many of cities on the Costa Blanca, tourism is a central to Torrevieja's economy and offers all tourists plenty to do during their stay.

Torrevieja, Spain is located a little over thirty miles south Alicante along the Costa Blanca coastline. It is in the Province of Alicante situated half way between Alicante and Cartegena and east of Murcia. No different than many of cities on the Costa Blanca, tourism is a central to Torrevieja's economy and offers all tourists plenty to do during their stay. It is particularly a popular destination for British, German and Scandinavian tourists with its population largely European. The summer climate is very hot while the winters are rather mild. With its beautiful summer climate, though, it is one of the most popular vacation areas in the Costa Blanca.

The region around Torrevieja is known for its natural salt production producing about a half a million tons of salt annually. The salt is produced from its two nearby salt lakes. Originally, the city was only a small salt-mine and fishing village but with the growth in tourism, it has expanded to meet the tourism demand. Presently, salt, fishing and tourism are Torrevieja's main economic forces but its salt production also has benefits for its tourists. The Natural Park of the Lagoons of the La Mata and Torrevieja is a protected park in the area and especially noted for its population of flamingos among other exotic birds. For the visitor, the park offers more than simply beautiful scenery but also offers relaxing salt baths. Salt baths offer many health benefits and are especially beneficial for illnesses such as arthritis and certain skin conditions.


There is no shortage of shopping opportunities in Torrevieja with thousands of shopping establishments as well as one of the largest open markets in Spain, offering fruits, vegetables, crafts, jewelry and many other goods. Note, though, that all markets are not open every day. For example, the main market in Torrevieja is only open on Fridays while the craft market is only open on the weekends.

If not shopping or enjoying the natural park, there is always golf to play in the Costa Blanca. The Torrevieja Golf Club is one of many great golf courses in the area. Fees range from thirty five to eighty Euros depending on the course and season. Because of its beautiful climate, Torrevieja has become a popular golfing destination. There will be no need to travel far to find the perfect golf course, as there are several large courses in the area.

The Alicante International Airport is the closet airport. Upon arrival at the airport, there are numerous transportation choices available for you to reach the city including the bus, a taxi or local car hire companies. Whether you simply need to reach Torrevieja or prefer the freedom of your own car, there is no need to worry about transportation during you stay in Torrevieja. You will quickly be on your way to a fabulous visit in one of the most popular destinations on Spain's beautiful coastline.

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About the Author
Robert Carlton publishes mostly for http://www.alicante-spain.com , an online publication covering information on Alicante . His contributions on Torrevieja are found on his website .

Why Spain is the Perfect Country for Golf

If golf is a passion of yours, perhaps Golf property Costa Blanca style is exactly what you need to scratch that itch. Maybe the wife would rather relax in the sun or by the pool however, well there are numerous places in Costablanca, Spain where you can both have what you desire from your vacations.

If golf is a passion of yours, perhaps Golf property Costa Blanca style is exactly what you need to scratch that itch. Maybe the wife would rather relax in the sun or by the pool however, well there are numerous places in Costablanca, Spain where you can both have what you desire from your vacations. This area of Spain puts you within minutes of several picturesque courses, and the closeness lets you enjoy some time on the course as well as by the pool or beach.

There are some top four-star golf courses along the Costa Blanca. With each you will find lavish accommodations, perfectly kept greens and often, superior golf instruction.

A taste of some of the best properties within 50 km of the Alicante and Murcia airports include:

Campoamor Golf, Alicante Golf, Don Cayo Golf, Alenda Golf, and El Plantio Golf,. These courses are not only considered first class, but also offer bargain greens fees for guests staying at the close by resorts, such as the Campoamor Golf Hotel.

If a golf vacation isn't enough, you can buy a golf property that will give you the option of popping in and finishing a round anytime the urge to travel to Costablanca hits you. You can buy a penthouse and high-end apartment property that is merely steps from the golf courses. On the off-season, not that there's much of one in Costa Blanca, you'll find the perfect opportunity to rent out your property for a little investment income. You can also buy yourself a time-share and choose the dates you want to vacation.

There are new projects from some of Spain's top developers close to the Puerto Banus, Atalaya, San Pedro, and Alcantara golf courses. These new developments and others like them have what is known as a golf share. The site of the development along the golf course and near others in the area takes into account residency and offers membership shares in the courses themselves.


A good golf vacation obviously includes many hours of golf. But, there are other activities both on and off the course that are fun for the visitor looking for both serious golf and some serious relaxation.

After a lengthy, yet enjoyable day on the course, you can anticipate spa treatments of the plushest kind. Massages, manicures, facials, etc. are conveniently housed on the grounds and appointments run into the evening hours.

There's a nightlife aspect to a golf property Costa Blanca vacation too. Bars and restaurants and can start the day off perfectly, followed by a quiet stroll along the waterfront or dancing. Shops will usually stay open late in the evenings during high tourist times to capitalize on your vacation experience.

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About the Author
The free-lance writer Johnathan Bakers is particularly passionate about ideas relating to costablanca. His abstracts on Spain and Costa Blanca can be discovered on his web publications .

The Best European Golf Destinations For Family Holidays

Golf holidaying with a family presents its own special challenges. Keeping non-golfers in the family happy and feeling like they are having a real holiday, while at the same time getting your fill of golf, is worth that bit of extra travel planning. The following European golf resort holiday destinations are perfect for family holidays.


Golf holidaying with a family presents its own special challenges. Keeping non-golfers in the family happy and feeling like they are having a real holiday, while at the same time getting your fill of golf, is worth that bit of extra travel planning. The following European golf resort holiday destinations are perfect for family holidays.

Central Algarve Central Algarve, with its beautiful scenery, perfect weather, and exceptional golf courses, is one of Europe's top golfing destinations. Resorts such as Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Vale do Lobo, and Vilamoura offer much more than golf and will provide non-golfers with all the holiday variety they would expect from a first-class resort. At Quinta do Lago, a 2,000-acre exclusive residential and recreational estate, you have countryside and pine forests, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Ria Formosa nature reserve as your playground, plus 72 holes of golf. Horse riding and tennis as well as a variety of water sports will keep your family occupied during the day, and there are classy restaurants, hip nightclubs for night-time entertainment, as well as the Bourganvilla Shopping Centre and a health club. The stunning two-mile stretch of golden-sand is a bonus.

Vale do Lobo, receiver of accolades such as "Best Resort of the Millennium", and the Algarve's largest leisure resort, has quality accommodation and diverse sporting facilities, including one of the largest tennis facilities in Portugal. Vale do Lobo, with its two (going on three) 18-hole championship courses, hosts around 100,000 golfers each year.


Vilamoura, twice the size of Vale do Lobo, has tennis courts, a riding school, fishing and shooting facilities, and indoor and outdoor sports complexes, as well as five golf courses. Amazing vessels are moored at the large marina, home to restaurants, cafes and shops. A surprisingly cosmopolitan nightlife consists of bars, clubs and restaurants.

Costa Del Sol Costa del Sol offers variety both on and off the fairways, and the mild winters and beautiful springs and autumns are perfect for golf. There are around 20 courses, leisure areas, playgrounds and family attractions, as well as beaches and seaside promenades. Three excellent water parks are open from Easter for the summer season, with water slides, pools for all ages and abilities, as well as picnic areas and restaurants. At a number of nature parks you can see animals and enjoy educational programs. Selwo Aventura has over 2,000 wild animals and an unrivalled nature reserve, and Selwo Marina has exotic birds, an underwater observation centre, and dolphins. At the Benalmádena Sea Life Centre, an interactive underwater park, you can walk on the bottom of the sea and view thousands of aquatic species.

The Lisbon Coast There are great golf courses here and the beaches are perfect for families. The scenery, magnificent with its small fishing bays and towering cliffs, and the superb local cuisine worth the trip alone. And nearby Lisbon, has all the diversity that a capital city can offer. Quinta da Marinha resort has leisure facilities including three salt-water outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre with heated indoor swimming pool, six tennis courts and a tennis school, a Turkish bath, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym, massage room, bicycle hire, horse riding, and, last but not least, an 18-hole golf course.

Praia D'el Rey Marriott, just 60-minute drive from Lisbon airport, is a beachfront hotel with spacious family rooms, away from the tourist crush. The hotel has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a health club, Jacuzzi and tennis courts. Nearby Obidos, a charming hill town set within 14th-century castellated walls, is a perfect day trip destination. And the Praia d'el Rey golf course, one of Europe's finest, is right on your doorstep.

Articles Source - Free Articles

About the Author
Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and Longshot Golf Holidays offer great value golfing breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

WaterColor Inn & Resort Announces Fall, Winter Signature Golf Packages

Tom Fazio, Greg Norman and Davis Love III-Designed Courses Featured

(WATERSOUND, Fla.) – The St. Joe Company’s WaterColor Inn & Resort, the award-winning hotel located on the Gulf of Mexico, today announces the availability of its fall and winter “Signature Series” Golf Packages, featuring Tom Fazio-designed Camp Creek, Greg Norman-designed Shark’s Tooth and The Origins Course at WaterSound, designed by Davis Love III.

All packages include accommodations at the WaterColor Inn & Resort, a 60-room boutique property designed by David Rockwell with rooms overlooking the white sugar sand beaches and wind-swept coastal dunes of South Walton County. Camp Creek, The Origins Course and Shark’s Tooth are located just minutes from the Inn, and shuttle van transportation is provided by request.

Signature Series Golf Packages

Signature Guys Golf Gorge Experience (Oct. 2, 2007 – Feb. 29, 2008) – Includes unlimited golf at Camp Creek and Shark’s Tooth, one round at Origins and dinner at Fish Out of Water, located at the Inn. Stays available starting at $300 per night per person, based on double occupancy. Two-night minimum stay required.

Signature Family Golf Experience (Oct. 2, 2007 – Feb. 29, 2008) – Includes one round of golf at Origins per family member, per stay. Three-night stays available starting at $785, based on double occupancy.

Signature Day with a Pro Golf Experience (Oct. 2, 2007 – Feb. 29, 2008) -- Includes lessons with a PGA professional from Camp Creek or Shark’s Tooth, lunch, videoed instruction, two rounds of golf (one with the teaching professional) and dinner at Fish Out of Water. Minimum three-night stay and double occupancy ($480 - $565).

Camp Creek and Shark’s Tooth offer golfers exclusive, championship-level playing experiences that truly adhere to the “country club for a day” adage. Only members, their guests, and guests of WaterColor and WaterSound resort properties have access to both courses, creating a truly memorable golf experience unique to the region. The Origins Course, open to the public, is a concept course that plays as a six-hole regulation, nine-hole executive and 10-hole par-3 layout.

“Our Signature Series Golf Packages provide our guests with an exclusive golfing experience that few destinations can match,” says Stephen Hilliard, Vice President of Resort and Club Operations. “The one-two punch of Camp Creek and Shark’s Tooth – both considered among the most challenging private courses in the state -- is a strong combination that appeals to avid golfers. The Origins Course, designed with beginners, juniors and family golf in mind, is the perfect complement.”

All packages are customizable at the time of booking and can include additional golf, instruction, dinners and nights. For more information and package pricing, visit www.watercolorinn.com or WaterColor Vacations, www.watercolorvacations.com.

About Camp Creek

Since opening in 2001, Camp Creek has been consistently cited as one of Tom Fazio's most thought-provoking, aesthetically-stunning design credits. Featuring a unique “dunescape” appearance, the course was created as a private club for members who are owners of St. Joe selected communities and resort guests of St. Joe’s WaterColor and WaterSound Beach resorts. From the back green tees, the course plays to a championship caliber yardage of 7,159 and a formidable slope rating of 152. Camp Creek’s five-tee configuration, which also includes gold (senior) and red (women’s) tees, accommodates players of all skill and experience levels. Travel + Leisure Golf recently recognized Camp Creek as “Florida’s No. 1 Course of the New Millennium.” It has also been recognized for its environmental stewardship through designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary ! System (ACSS). Superintendent Larry Livingston was similarly distinguished as a certified Audubon Steward.

About Shark’s Tooth

Designed by Greg Norman and voted the second best new private course by Golf Digest upon opening in 2002, Shark’s Tooth Golf Club was recently purchased by The St. Joe Company to bolster its high-end, golf course holdings. The course stretches to 7,209 yards from the back tees and features five fairways that border scenic Lake Powell, two holes that play toward the water and numerous wooden cart path bridges that cross over streams and estuaries. Tucked among the oaks and pines along the shores of the historic lake, which has been designated an Outstanding Florida Waterway, Shark's Tooth is a challenging course that co-exists with its surroundings. Grass from the Greg Norman Turf Company was used on the fairways, approaches and rough. Shark’s Tooth is located just 10 miles from Camp Creek and the Origins Course at WaterSound, collectively creating one of west Florida’s great golf destin! ations. The course is a Silver Signature Sanctuary Course as accredited by the Audubon Signature Program.

About The Origins Course at WaterSound

The Origins Course at WaterSound’s mission is to make golf more fun, accessible and attractive to families, beginners and casual golfers. A six-hole regulation course that alternatively plays as a nine-hole executive course and a ten-hole par 3 layout, The Origins Course was conceived with the “short course” concept at its core. Designed by Love Golf Design, founded by PGA Tour player Davis Love III, the course is consistent with the Scottish origins of the game, in which six, nine and 12-hole courses were commonplace. The Origins Course appeals and caters to novices via its non-penal design and manageable distance of approximately 1,800 yards. Yet its regulation-length holes and traditionally wrought green complexes provide enough challenge and strategy to retain the interest of experienced golfers. Turfed with “Sealsle Supreme Paspalum,” which requires fewer chemicals for! weed and pest control, The Origins Course supports St. Joe’s commitment to environmental sensitivity and preservation.

About WaterColor

WaterColor is a 499-acre coastal resort and residential community in Northwest Florida directly on the Gulf of Mexico, adjacent to the acclaimed Grayton Beach State Recreation Area along Walton County's scenic highway 30A. Developed by The St. Joe Company, the resort features a 60-room inn, fine dining restaurant Fish Out of Water, Camp WaterColor, spa, swimming pools, tennis center, Orvis accredited fishing excursions, dune walkovers, lakefront parks and BoatHouse for water sports. At full build-out the community is planned to include 1,140 residences. Nearly half the property is devoted to open space and preservation areas.

WaterColor Inn is Northwest Florida's only AAA Four Diamond hotel. In 2007 and 2006 readers of Travel + Leisure voted the property one of the "World's Best," and in 2006 Travel + Leisure Family rated it "#1 Family-Friendly Resort in North America." WaterColor was also named the 2006 "Grand Award Winner" in Andrew Harper's Hideaway Report. WaterColor Inn is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.
More information can be found at http://www.watercolorvacations.com

About JOE

The St. Joe Company (NYSE: JOE), a publicly held company based in Jacksonville, is one of Florida’s largest real estate development companies. We are primarily engaged in real estate development and sales, with significant interests in timber. JOE’s mission is to create places that inspire people and make the region an even better place to live, work and play. We’re no ordinary JOE.

More information about JOE can be found at our website at www.joe.com .

© 2007 The St. Joe Company. “Camp Creek,” “JOE,” “St. Joe”, “WaterColor,” “Shark’s Tooth,” “WaterSound” and the “Taking Flight” design are service marks of The St. Joe Company.

Schmidt-Curley Renovates Venerable Hong Kong Golf Club

Schmidt-Curley Design – the full-service golf-course architecture, master-planning and construction-management firm – today announces that its renovation of the historic Hong Kong Golf Club will be exhibited during the PGA European Tour’s UBS Hong Kong Open, November 15-18.

Schmidt-Curley has been performing renovations and general maintenance on the 54-hole club’s Old, New, and Eden courses for the last five years. Their work has included green replacements, bunker repairs, building a new par-3 hole on the New Course, and converting the Old Course’s fairways to the revolutionary salt-water tolerant Paspalum grass while installing a network of engineered cart paths.

“The club is located in a hot, humid valley, making it a really difficult place to grow grass,” says Brian Curley. “Due to less-than-ideal turf conditions, the Old Course wasn’t getting very much member play prior to the change to Paspalum. But it’s been a completely different story after the introduction of the new turf and cart paths. They now love it.”

The UBS Hong Kong Open will be played on the club’s Composite Course, a par-70, 6,749-yard compilation of holes from the New and Eden Courses known for its narrow fairways and small greens. The Composite Course includes the aforementioned 144-yard par-3 hole designed by Schmidt-Curley.

“It’s an honor to have that hole integrated into the Composite Course,” continues Curley. “The UBS Hong Kong Open has been played on the Composite Course for many years and has been won by some of the game’s greatest players. The inclusion of our hole is a testament to the many hours we spent making sure that it would seamlessly fit with the established layout.”

The UBS Hong Kong Open dates back to 1959 and is the longest-running sports event in Hong Kong. Past champions of the event include Greg Norman, Peter Thomson, Tom Watson, Jose Maria Olazabal, and Padraig Harrington. The defending champion is Jose Manual Lara of Spain.

For more information about Schmidt-Curley and its full suite of masterplanning, design and construction services, visit www.schmidt-curley.com or call 480-483-1994.

About Schmidt-Curley Design, Inc.

Founded by partners Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley and based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Schmidt-Curley is a full-service, international golf-course architecture and master-planning firm with more than 100 layouts in 24 countries, including the U.S., Thailand, China, Vietnam, Mexico, Egypt, Sweden, and Korea. The tandem is responsible for crafting 10 of the 12 courses at storied Mission Hills Golf Resort in Shenzhen, China – the largest golf complex in the world.

Schmidt-Curley teamed with long-time partner Nick Faldo, as well as Ernie Els, Jose Maria Olazabal, David Duval, Annika Sorenstam, Vijay Singh, David Ledbetter and Jumbo Ozaki to create a golf experience unlike any other globally. High profile, award-winning projects from Schmidt-Curley include Bali Hai and Siena Golf Clubs (Las Vegas), Amata Spring Golf Club (Chonburi, Thailand, host of the Royal Trophy), Terra Lago Golf Club (Indio, California, site of the Skins Game for four years), Twin Creeks Golf Club (Cedar Park, Texas), and Crosby National Golf Club (Rancho Santa Fe, California).

Schmidt-Curley has also worked extensively with golf’s biggest names – including Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, Fred Couples and Faldo on numerous high-profile projects. Producing demanding yet beautiful and enjoyable courses, Schmidt-Curley strives to create golf experiences that stir the senses and elevate golfers’ appreciations for the land and the game. By balancing classic golf course architecture with ever-changing contemporary technology, Schmidt-Curley places an emphasis on site-adaptive courses, memorable and enjoyable for all levels of play and always designed for cost-efficient maintenance and operations.

Lexington, Kentucky Golf Resort: Griffin Gate

With gaping bunkers guarding every green, breathtaking water views on 12 of 18 holes and few flat putts, golfers will enjoy this unique golf course located in the heart of Kentucky. Package includes deluxe accommodations for two people, unlimited rounds of golf for two, including green fees and cart, and breakfast for two in the Griffin Gardens. Rates vary from $309 - $369.

Booking
Please call 1-800-228-9290 and ask for promotional code GFP or book online at www.marriott.com and enter promotional code GFP in the Corporate/Promotional code box.

Terms & Conditions
For advance tee times, please call 1-859-288-6193. This package does not apply to groups of 10 or more rooms and blackout dates may apply.

Valid Until
12/31/2007

Phoenix Arizona Golf Resort: Wildfire Golf Club

Wildfire Golf Club is situated in the rugged Sonoran Desert of Northeast Phoenix, and features two picturesque 18-hole courses designed by two of golf's greatest legends--Arnold Palmer and Nick Faldo.

The Palmer Signature Course at Wildfire Golf Club offers scenic and expansive fairways allowing the ball to remain in play even on an errant shot. The Faldo Championship Course features generous fairways, large bent grass greens and tee boxes. Surrounding both courses are the majestic McDowell Mountains and century-old saguaro cacti, providing a spectacular setting for golfers. The two courses of Wildfire Golf Club are an integral part of the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, voted one of the Top 75 Resorts in North America by Conde Nast readers.

Reserve a tee time at Wildfire Golf Club.

Discover more about the spa, recreational and dining amenities of JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa.

The PGA Golf Club Unveils "To Dye Fore" Golf Package

Exciting Stay & Play Package Highlighted by Round of Golf on Newly Refined Pete Dye Design; 3-Night Stay Includes Complimentary Round

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. - The PGA Golf Club, in Port St. Lucie, Fla., home to 54-holes of Championship golf, the prestigious PGA Learning Center and PGA Historical Center, unveiled in conjunction with the recent grand re-opening of the 18-hole restoration of the Dye Course, the "To Dye Fore" golf package. On the heels of famed architect Pete Dye refining his original links style design, The PGA Golf Club is now offering golfers a unique 3-day, 3-night "Stay and Play" option at one of the premier golf facilities in the country through travel partner Golfpac.

The "To Dye Fore" package includes three rounds of golf at The PGA Golf Club, highlighted by rounds on the recently renovated Dye Course and the two recently renovated Tom Fazio designs - the Carolina-style Ryder Course and the classic Florida-style Wanamaker Course at The PGA Golf Club. This is in addition to a complimentary round of golf on the day of arrival for guests who have booked three rounds or more during their visit.

"Golfers from around the world are going to fall in love with the beautification and restoration that was completed over the past year on the Dye, Wanamaker and Ryder Courses at The PGA Golf Club," said Bob Baldassari, PGA general manager of The PGA Golf Club. "With the 'To Dye Fore' Package, golf enthusiasts have an attractively priced means of enjoying these three unique courses at The PGA Golf Club, ranked by Golf Digest as one of the '75 Best Golf Resorts.'"

Landscaping modifications to the Dye Course are most evident on the first hole, which was enhanced to create an open bowl effect, offering golfers stunning views of the 100-acre "Big Mamu" Wetlands. Additional refinements include the installation of new Champion Ultra Dwarf putting surfaces, Paspalum teeing grounds, bunker improvements, and a new coquina base and irrigation system along the car paths. The "To Dye Fore" package celebrates the culmination of the renovations of all three Championship courses.

Golfers can also enjoy the nearby PGA Historical Center, one of the game's most significant golf museums that serves as The PGA of America's showcase of rare golf memorabilia and artifacts dating back to the 1600s; and the incredible PGA Learning Center, home to one of the world's largest and most advanced practice facilities.

Packages begin at $404.70 per night, per golfer, based on four-person occupancy with all golf car fees and taxes included. Accommodations and golf are subject to availability, with prices subject to change. To reserve this exclusive package, call (888) 471-4712, and ask for the "To Dye Fore" Special (code PSL-PGA-FC) at The PGA Golf Club.

To reserve individual rounds of golf, instruction, PGA of America Golf Schools and tee times at The PGA Golf Club and The PGA Learning Center, in Port St. Lucie, Fla., call (800) 800-GOLF or visit www.pgavillage.com.

About The PGA Golf Club
The Ryder, Wanamaker and Dye Courses form a trio of world-class public courses at The PGA Golf Club, in Port St. Lucie, Fla. Named by Golf Digest as one of the "75 Best Golf Resorts in North America" for 2007-08, The PGA Golf Club also features the award-winning 35-acre PGA Learning Center golf park and PGA Historical Center. The PGA Golf Club, exists to be one of the premier daily fee facilities in America, and to serve as a home club for our 28,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals. For more information, please visit www.pgavillage.com.

About The PGA of America
The PGA of America is the world's largest working sports organization, comprised of 28,000 men and women golf Professionals who are the recognized experts in growing, teaching and managing the game of golf while serving millions of people throughout its 41 PGA Sections nationwide. Since its founding in 1916, The PGA of America has enhanced its leadership position in a $62 billion-a-year industry by growing the game of golf through its premier spectator events, world-class education and training programs, significant philanthropic outreach initiatives, and award-winning golf promotions. Today's PGA Professional is the public's link to the game, serving an essential role in the operation of golf facilities throughout the country.

The Territory Golf Club Named to 'Top 50 Best New Golf Courses' List

Golfweek Magazine Bestows Praise Upon Southwest Oklahoma Randy Heckenkemper Design

(Southwest Oklahoma) - The Territory, a golf and residential community near the town of Duncan, today announces that it garnered a spot in Golfweek's 2007 ranking of the Top 50 Best New Courses in the United States.

Golfweek defines new courses as those having opened in the past three calendar years (2005-2007) and the ranking takes into account overall strength of routing, feature shaping, natural setting, greens, variety and memorability of holes, conditioning and maintenance, landscape management and other criteria. Golfweek, which has a readership of more than 500,000, sends approximately 400 "America's Best" raters in search of the country's finest golf courses. Those raters submit ballots grading on a 10-point scale and the scores for each course are averaged to get the overall rating.

"When we set out to create The Territory our goal was to build something that would stand the test of time and be one of the finest clubs anywhere, on and off the course," says Rick Braught, who along with wife Barbara, own The Territory. "We're honored to receive this prestigious recognition and it is extremely gratifying as our vision from Day One has been to be a top-notch golf club and residential community."

The Territory joins high-profile courses such as Bandon Trails (Bandon, Ore.), designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, and Liberty National, the $129 million layout from architects Bob Cupp and Tom Kite.

Hard on the Chisholm Trail, amid the rolling hills and native grasses which define The Territory's terrain, the Randy Heckenkemper-designed golf course features five sets of tees (ranging from 4,845 to 7,110 yards), a state-of-the-art training facility and a three-hole short course.

"From the moment we stepped onto this property, we knew this was a special piece of land on which to build a championship golf course," says Heckenkemper. "The terrain dictated many of the holes, while the rest fell beautifully into place."

In its first years of operation, The Territory has already hosted the state amateur, state senior amateur and an NCAA Division II Super Regional. In addition, the course will host an Adams Golf Pro tour Series tournament in 2008.

Not only is The Territory within a short drive of lakes for boating and fishing and mere minutes from a pair of schools, shopping, dining and churches, but also the Duncan Regional Hospital was named to the Solucient Top 100 Hospitals - a list of more than 3,000 hospitals that identifies industry benchmarks by recognizing U.S. hospitals that have achieved excellence in quality of care, operational efficiency, financial performance and adaptation to the environment.

For more information on The Territory, call 580.475.0075 or visit www.territorygolf.com.

About The Territory

The Territory is a golf and country club community located in Southwest Oklahoma. The course is a modified target-golf layout that offers playability and enjoyment to players of all ages and skill levels. The greens are an A1-A4 creeping bentgrass blend, the tees, fairways and roughs are Tifsport Bermudagrass and native vegetation frames the playing corridors.

Prospector's Ridge, the first planned phase at The Territory, is in the early stages of development. Prices of lots available range from $61,000 to $144,000. Were a similar, high-quality property like The Territory located in the nearby Dallas-Fort Worth area it would likely cost three times as much.

Owners Rick and Barbara Braught - members of the McCasland Oil family - are graduates of the University of Oklahoma and remain active through university fund raising, support and holding season tickets to Sooner athletic events. Barbara (BA 1986, MBA 1990) is the granddaughter of T.H. McCasland - the founder of Mack Oil Company - and serves as Executive Director of the McCasland Foundation, while Rick (BBA 1984, MBA 1989) oversees numerous companies.

LOONIE PRICE PLUNGE: Ultimate Golf & Ski Vacations Up to 20% Cheaper This Year

LOONIE PRICE PLUNGE: Ultimate Golf & Ski Vacations Up to 20% Cheaper This Year

- Price comparisons with previous years are dramatic
- Resort costs have held steady in recent years, package prices have
dropped
- Ultimate Golf and Ski vacations are up to 20% cheaper than last year!

TORONTO, Oct. 23 /CNW/ - 'Over par' are two words golfers don't usually
like to hear. But when you're talking about the Canadian dollar in relation to
its U.S. counterpart, all of a sudden 'over par' has a whole new - and
positive - meaning.

The meteoric rise of the Canadian dollar hasn't been matched with a
corresponding decline in prices on many items, as Canadians have been quick to
notice. But when it comes to holiday packages from Ultimate Ski Vacations and
Ultimate Golf Vacations, the proof is right there in the brochure.

"Price comparisons with previous years are dramatic," says Ron Dawick,
President of the two companies that are Canadian leaders in customized golf
and ski holidays. "Less than a year ago we had to price at $1.20 CAD per U.S.
dollar. Based on current rates this translates into a 20% price reduction.
Resort costs haven't risen much over the past few years, so package prices
have actually dropped significantly in real terms. As they say, there's never
been a better time..."

Here are a couple of sample golf packages, with price comparisons from
last year to this year:

PGA National Gold Package: Featuring five championship-level golf
courses, a world class spa, seven spectacular restaurants and nine pools, PGA
National Resort & Spa is more than just a golfer's paradise. The Ultimate Golf
Vacations package includes three nights double accommodation in a superior
room, daily golf on the General, Haig, Estate and Squire Courses, with carts,
advance tee times and all taxes. Price is based on travel between January 1st
and April 6th. Last year's price: $1,499 per person. This year's price:
$1,199.

Florida Suncoast Properties Package: In the beautiful Fort Myers area,
this budget-conscious package includes five nights accommodation in a
three-bedroom private rental home with pool. Four rounds of golf with advance
tee times and carts are included, at the Hills Course, Palms Course, Long
Marsh and The Links. Package also includes a five-day Avis minivan rental with
unlimited mileage. The price is based on a group of four for travel between
January 1st and April 30th, 2008. Last year's price: $669 per person. This
year's price: $539.

Ski season is on the way and as prices slide downhill Ultimate is ready
for increased demand to U.S. locations. As an example of ski savings for 2008,
a 5-night, 4-day March Break ski package to Killington, Vermont with slopeside
lodging in a 1 bedroom condo is priced $298.00 less per couple than a similar
package last year.

Ultimate Ski Vacations has picked the perfect time to expand its U.S.
program, with the Canadian dollar going further than it has in 30 years. New
to the lineup this year are Stowe and Smuggler's Notch in Vermont and
Steamboat Springs in Colorado. Ultimate Ski has also expanded its Vail
offerings and also features Copper Mountain in Colorado and Lake Placid and
Killington in the east.

On the golf side, Ultimate Golf offers customized packages to all major
US golf destinations including Florida, North and South Carolina, Texas,
Nevada, Arizona and California.

As well as the savings from positive currency exchange, Ultimate Golf and
Ultimate Ski use long-term relationships and volume sales to offer a 'lowest
price guarantee' on golf and ski getaways. They're happy to match competitor
pricing on identical arrangements.

For further information: or to view or order brochures, visit
www.ultimategolf.ca or www.ultimateski.ca; Media Information: Ron Dawick,
President, rdawick@ugv.net

Have you considered The Cliffs Communities?

Many images come to mind when people talk about The Cliff’s Communities at Lake Keowee. For some it is a special place for resorts and relaxation, while for others it houses the best golf communities and retirement communities in South Carolina. Miles away from the hustle and bustle of work, it is a private community with the best lake front real estate in South Carolina. With the best golf courses, lake front homes and the most luxurious gated communities in South Carolina, The Cliff’s Communities are truly special.

Not only is the area home to some of the most prized South Carolina real estate, but it is loaded with some of the most beautiful natural landscape on the east coast. With growing cities all around, including Asheville, NC and Greenville, SC, The Cliff’s is the perfect balance with a beautiful outdoor getaway and a growing urban community.

For home buyers and investors who are interested in Lake Keowee property for sale or Cliff’s homes for sale, contact a genuine real estate agent for some of the best homes at the best prices. Lots start at $100,000 and beautiful custom homes start around $700,000.

The gated communities at The Cliffs make this a place like no other. Each community has something different which means there's something for everyone. In addition, the Cliffs Communities offers a unique membership program that gives residents access to the outstanding amenities of each community, including all of the world-class golf courses. The private communities include:

The Cliffs at High Carolina -This newest Cliffs community rises 4,000 feet above sea level amidst the Blue Ridge mountains and it will feature the first golf course designed by Tiger Wood’s in the US.
The Cliffs at Mountain Park – Spread over 5,000 acres of stunning mountain views, this area boasts some splendid homes. More than anything else, it’s the golf course and open spaces that hold your gaze.
The Cliffs at Keowee – This community features Keowee Vineyards, Keowee Falls, and Keowee Springs which are all communities set on pristine Lake Keowee. The Cliffs at Keowee Falls also features a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course that opened in May of 2006.
The Cliffs at Walnut Cove – This is the reason why people travel hundreds of miles to come to South Carolina - the veritable, award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.
The Cliffs Valley – Cliffs Valley boasts a Ben Wright designed championship golf course, a 15,000-square-foot Wellness Complex, trails in the Panther Mountain Reserve and so much more.
The Cliffs at Glassy – Now, this is a rarity. The Cliffs at Glassy is the sole mountaintop community in the whole state of South Carolina.



Joe Black writes informative articles on communities and developments in the Carolinas. You can learn more about the Cliffs Communities by visiting websites like http://www.judyandlibby.com/communities.php

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Hilton Head Golf Vacations Provide Everything You Could Ask For

If you are stuck for a vacation this year why not try one of the many Hilton Head golf vacations on offer, at the southern end of South Carolina. Combine a great climate with a marvelous golfing and seaside vacation that nobody in your family will gripe about.

Who can gripe about the otters, bobcats and mink? Or just off-island, the dolphins and loggerhead turtles? Your family will love you for this vacation so much that you will be able to golf all day without so much as a murmur of complaint...well, perhaps! I can't see why not, though. The shopping is fine and the entertainment is great. The kids will be happy with the beaches to play on and there are also miniature golf courses for them to learn on.

Golf Schools and Bowling Alleys - Something for Everyone

Can your partner play golf? If not, there are lots of golf schools here you can take him or her to visit and get a few lessons. There is plenty for everybody to do and almost three hundred places to eat! There are bowling alleys, a huge tennis complex and water sports to die for. If anybody complains about there being 'nothing to do' on Hilton Head Island, they are nuts!

The courses themselves are great and have been designed by the best. Davis Love III, Arnold Palmer and the Golden Bear himself all designed courses here. Being on an island, they are mainly links courses, and offer you a different challenge to that of an inland golf course. It's less target golf and more a knowledge of conditions, wind and bounce, though it's still a lot of fun and provides valuable experience. You will love it, believe me!

You Must Play the Harbor Town Links Course

Hilton Head Harbor Town Golf Links is the most famous of the courses, with its trademark red and white lighthouse designed specifically for the eighteenth hole. Its 18th hole has been featured in Golf Magazine, and it is a course that every visitor to Hilton Head than can hold a club must play. There's no excuse and there is a lot for the other family members to be getting on with while the golfers enjoy their round.

If you have had golfing holidays in the past that you have enjoyed, but your family has not been too enamored with due to the lack of facilities for the non-golfers among them, then you must try this island. Hilton Head golf vacations have a lot to offer everybody, whether they play golf or not. Give yourself and your family a treat this summer.

Article Source: http://www.fresh-article-directory.com


Mike Pedersen is an internationally known golf performance expert. He is the founder of Golf-Trainer.com. For more Hilton Head golf vacations information, go to Golf-Trainer.com today!

Myrtle Beach Golf Vacations Combine Golf with Family Fun

Myrtle Beach golf vacations offer you a resort based golf holiday that is smack in the center of the 60 mile stretch of beach in Carolina that is known as the Grand Strand. With its hotels, night life and fabulous beach facilities, what else could you ask for? Golf courses? Well, of course: there are over one hundred of them!

The climate is great. The sun shines most of the year, yet it is not so hot that you cannot enjoy the golf. It can cater for every size of pocket from the small to the downright bottomless, yet everybody enjoys the same sun, the same beaches and the same choice of golf courses.

The Whole Family is Kept Happy

Myrtle Beach has so many golf courses that it is unlikely you will find the time to do a lot more than play golf, but your family will still want to be entertained, especially if they do not follow your passion for the game. A lot depends on whether the other half is male or female, and if you have brought the children with you. There is certainly no lack of shopping: Myrtle Beach has so much to offer, with up to the minute fashion boutiques, lots of shopping malls with the nationwide labels and retail outlets where there are lots of brand name stores to browse round.

For you there are an almost unlimited number of golf shops offering everything from a pack of tees to a full set of clubs, or the latest golf gear. It's up to you if you want to let them loose downtown...rather you than me!

What about the rest of the family that wouldn't know a golf ball from a ping pong ball? No problem. There are water sports of all kinds, parasailing, water skiing and jet skiing. There are hire shops everywhere so you don't have to bring your own gear. They can try a round of putting while you play a round of golf. Who knows, they might catch the bug and be on the course with you this time next year.

Keep an Eye on the Waistline

After all that exercise you will all be hungry and the cuisine in Myrtle Beach is very varied. Every possible taste is met and you will probably need the exercise to work off all these little treats and luxuries you allow yourself while on vacation. You can have what you want, from lobster and steak to wings and slaw, and if you are not careful you will be returning home a few inches or a couple of sizes bigger than when you left. So use these gyms and try out these water sports because it's unlikely your golf will work off all these extra calories.

As for the kids...well, it is a beach resort, so they will be well catered for with the white knuckle rides they love, and all the amusements for those too young for the more exciting rides. Myrtle Beach is truly a resort where the needs of every member of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, are met. Not just met but fully satisfied.

Myrtle Beach golf vacations are exactly what families need to make sure that everybody enjoys the vacation. No more complaining from the youngsters or your partner. They will be fully occupied and you will be able to enjoy your golf without worrying about what they will be saying next year when you suggest the same.

Article Source: http://www.fresh-article-directory.com


Mike Pedersen is an internationally known golf performance expert. He is the founder of Golf-Trainer.com. For more Myrtle Beach golf vacations information, visit Golf-Trainer.com today!

If You Are Considering A Golf Vacation You Should Consider A Mexican Golf Resort

Mexico has often been visited by tourists for its beautiful beaches. Annually, millions of tourists come to Mexico in hopes of vacationing on some the hottest beaches in the world. While most tourists are vacationing at overcrowded beaches, you could be staying at a Mexican golf resort.

As with all other well known destinations, Mexico has a huge number of golf resorts to choose from. In fact, there are so many golf resorts that you may be wondering how you are going to pick which one is for you. Your first step should be to look over the well known courses in the area you are looking to stay. Below is a look of three top rated golf resorts that you can find in Mexico.

The Casa del Mar Golf Resort and Spa is located in Cabo San Lucas. Although being a rather small golf resort, it is also one of the best in all of Mexico. The small resort setting often makes it a good getaway for those looking for more of a private resort.

The Casa del Mar Golf Resort is most famously known for their Robert Trent Jones golf course. In addition to their well-known golf course, facilities include beaches, spas, beauty salons, pools, and tennis courts. As with most other golf resorts in Mexico, the Casa del Mar Golf Course caters to those who love to golf and all the beachgoers who love to just sit back and tan on the beach.

The Isle Navidad Golf Course, Marina and Resort is not only one of the best golf resorts in Mexico, it is one of the best and top rated beach resorts. The resort is located in Manazanillo. What is most active about the Isle Navidad Golf Course, Marina and Resort is that it is the most secluded you can get these days in Mexico.

The Isle Navidad Golf Course, Marina, and Resort offers an unlimited number of activities that are geared at the mature crowd. Popular activities, aside from golfing, include boating, swimming, and playing tennis. The Isle Navidad Golf Course, Marina, and Resort is an ideal vacation destination for those who love golf and even for those who don't.

The Westin Regina Golf Course and Beach Resort is located in Los Cabos. This modern resort offers a huge number of activities and attractions to tourist.In addition they are well known for their great deals on golf packages.

Tourists, who are interested in spending time away from the onsite golf courses, have a number of choices. Being right by the shoreline, the Melia Cabo Real Beach and Golf Resort is ideal for those who want to spend their vacation laying on the beach. Well known beach activities include snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. The snorkeling around Mexico is some of the best in the world and will leave you stunned at the beauty of the water and the world beneath it. There are all kinds of reefs and corals that you can snorkel around.

The fishing here is also very good offshore and inshore. You can catch all kinds of fish ranging from grouper in the Caribbean to marlin in the pacific. Most resorts most likely have a charter boat that you can go out on, that will take you to their favorite fishing spots where they catch only the biggest and best of everything. Another thing you might be able to do here is dive offshore if you can get certified. If you can get certified before you go do it because you'll be able to witness way better things then you would have snorkeling.

Article Source: http://www.fresh-article-directory.com


Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about golf as well as golf gear at www.everythingforgolfgame.com

Golf Vacations in Beautiful PEI

Not only is Prince Edward Island's landscape a feast for the eyes but there is something for all golf enthusiasts, regardless of skill level. Canada's smallest province has gained the reputation of being the country's number one golf vacation spot, not just once, but twice! PEI boasts over 26 courses in total ranging from executive, intermediate and beginner skill levels. The Island has also played host in recent years to a number of professional golfers such as in the 1998 "Skins Game" with Fred Couples, Mark O'Meara, Mike Weir and John Daly. Mike Weir was once again on the Island for the Making the Connection Legends of Golf event in July 2007 where he and golf legend Vijay Singh played The Links at Crowbush Cove in beautiful Lakeside, PEI.

If it is an executive course you seek, there is one on every corner of the island. If you happen to be in the west give Mill River a whirl. As a par 72 course with 14 par 4 and above holes and greens fees at $45- $60, why waste another second? In the north Glasgow Hills is another par 72 designed by Les Furber and is classified as a "World Class Signature Golf Course". If visiting central Prince Edward Island the Glen Afton Golf Club is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. This par 70 course offers the biggest bang for its buck, $26- $33 for a round - an absolute steal. When you finally get out to the eastern side of PEI be sure to pay the red sandstone championship Dundarave golf course a visit. After opening in July of 1999 it was quick to grab the attention of Golf Digest and SCORE golf magazine with both giving it top marks. These courses promise to give you the opportunity to use all of the clubs in your bag.

If you love the game but are not ready to play with the pros, why not brush up on one of Prince Edward Island's many 9 hole golf courses. Not only will it do some good to brush up, these courses are a great way to include the whole family. If your kids have an interest, or someone looking to play a shorter game is along, visiting St. Felix in the West, Forest Hills in the North, Country View in central PEI or Eagles View in the East are all great ways to get out and enjoy the sights PEI has to offer.

If you happen to be feeling ambitious you could try your luck with a double header at the beautiful Brudenell River and adjoining Dundarave. Offering 36 holes this day of golf promises to be quite memorable.

The next time you think about planning a golf vacation, keep Prince Edward Island top of mind!

Article Source: http://www.fresh-article-directory.com


About PEI Prince Edward Island the Gentle Island is widely known as the historic birthplace of Canada. The Charlottetown conference held in 1864 was the first meeting of a series which ultimately led to the confederation of Canada in 1867.

By: Amy Nutt

Your Perfect Golf Vacation – Step 3, the Conclusion

Your perfect golf vacation with your friends starts and stops with you. Toss the vacation package brochures in a heap and design your own ideal golf getaway. This is the final of four articles to assist you in providing an outing for yourself and your friends that will make you want to do it every year (as we have for 19 years running).

From the last article, you are now at the minus one month point. So far you have rallied the troops, picked the dates, selected the lodging and golf courses and are in the final preparation stage. You will soon see your friends smiling faces at the airport baggage claim. The final preps and smoothly running the whole show are child's play. The tough part was getting your bunch of friends to buy the tickets to enjoy the event. Here are a few things you will want to do before the scream of the aircraft's tires on the tarmac.

1. Transportation. The limiting factor is arrival and departure from the airport due to clubs AND suitcases. If you can just barely stuff everyone in the vehicles at this point, the rest of the week is gravy. From your experience, you know that when you pack up four guys to go golfing locally, you will entirely fill the trunk of a full sized car. With that in mind, you should plan on a full sized car for every three people. We use one minivan/SUV augmented with cars for our adventures. Just make sure you allow for the limiting case.

You need to arrange these rental vehicles ahead of time, but you can only drive one yourself. Here is the minus one-month mandatory. When you figure out your vehicle requirements, contact the group to arrange among them and you who will contact and rent the remaining vehicles. There will probably be some in your group that have existing discounts and can score a great rate. Hash this one out via email.

2. Entertainment. Unless you are going to the deserts in Arizona or get exceedingly lucky, you will have a rain day or two. You will also have a bunch of time at night after golf (after you have all told your lies). We suck that time up pretty effectively watching the golf channel, ESPN, playing cards, or watching videos. The latter is what you can address ahead of time. We have a guy that is pretty good at selecting movies to watch and we task him to bring them with him. Movies like "Gladiator", "Miracle", etc. are big. More risque' titles are optional. On severe rain days, we also have gone bowling (a real hoot), done the local movie theater, and toured the area.

3. Checklists. After about ten years of being asked twenty times per day where we were playing the next day, or when we had to leave, or what was for supper, or who stole my teddy bear, I finally started typing out these things. I make a copy of each and post sporadically throughout the house. I make individual laminated cards and hand to each golfer. Know what? It reduced the questions to half and now when asked, I say that I can't remember. Let me walk over to the frig and read it for you. Here are the things I prepare ahead of time:

-#- Listing of course, tee times, course contact number, and departure time. I base departure time on MapBlast directions and factor in a stop for ice for the coolers and if we will need to hit range balls.
-#- Listing of the menu for the evening meals. If this is your first time, keep the menu simple and make sure you have the recipes in hand. With any size group, you are going to have a chef or two and this won't be a big deal.
-#- Multiple copies of the "order sheet" for sandwiches. For most of our noon meals between rounds, we dine on our self-prepared, gourmet sandwiches prepared the night before. As you saw from the previous articles, I solicit what the group wants and have that on the shopping list. What winds up being the least confusing way is to have some sheet for people to circle or fill in to specify what sandwiches they want for the next day. You rotate the preparers (two is best) every night and with that sheet, they manufacture the gourmet feast. (Don't discount this! The sandwiches you make will be superior to anything short of the full meal at the course AND you will not have to wait on it if you are pressed for time between your rounds.)
-#- Biggy! We did not keep a record of our scores for our first few years. Big mistake. What great history we tossed out. Keep a record! I prepare a hard copy sheet to fill in as we go. It allows us to follow who is the overall stroke leader and gives us all ammo to use in negotiating the next day's bets. I take this home and plant it permanently on our golf website.
-#- Expenses. I pay for everything with minor exceptions and collect everyone's share the final evening. That keeps it simple. I currently use a spreadsheet to administer this. It works great. I would provide this for you, but this article format doesn't allow. Before that, I simply used pen and paper and got it to within a penny. My point is that from the minute you start your adventure, keep a tally of what you have spent! Streamline course check in by paying for everyone, buy all the food and drink, buy all the gas, etc. If someone pays for anything, log it in immediately. If you are religious in this, you will have no complaints, only praise.

4. Things nobody else will bring but you:

- Several decks of cards, poker chips
- Cribbage boards
- Screw driver and pliers (you never know)
- Pens, pencils and permanent markers (you will need all)
- Over the counter pain killers
- Band-Aids
- Game

5. Arrival. So here you have a rambunctious group of friends descending on the Mecca of golf. You have motored to the house your staying in and it is the mad dash to the best room to be found. NOT. To avoid any hard feelings between the lodger that got the queen bed and the lodger that got the twin bed, simply set up a quick draw out of the hat. For subsequent years, do the same, but use the seniority system. Once a person misses, he goes to the end of the list.

6. Once you have dumped your bags in the drawn rooms, it is time to go shopping. With the template I gave you in the last article, and with your modifications based on menu and orders, grab one or two volunteers and get what you need.

This is the conclusion of my recommendations on how you can have the best golf outing or outings you have ever had. The fact that folks have been coming to enjoy my preparations for 19 years should be testimony to you. At least give it a shot once. The first time may not be exactly perfect, but my guess is that it will be superior to and more remembered than anything you can buy as a package. Go for it!

About The Author


Randall Ulbricht is a retired Nuclear Submarine Officer and works from home sharing information via several web sites, including: http://www.article-outlet.com, http://www.family-tree-templates.com and http://www.ezpromotes.com/love-poem.

www.articlecity.com

Traveling and Playing Golf Today

Taking the family out for a holiday and you play golf!

If you’re a golf enthusiast, you will know that golf is all about who you play golf with and where you play golf. It makes a world of difference! In fact, it’s a good idea for you to take your family on an outing or a holiday in a golf course. Although not all your family members will like to play golf with you but you get to kill two birds with one stone. You get to play your golf and your family gets to enjoy the luxurious hotel and resort setting and visit from travel destinations.

The golf courses will keep changing to give golfers a fresh layout

Before you start looking for a golf resort to play golf in, check whether the golf course is actually a public one, a private one or a semi-private one. The classifications determine whether you’ll get to play golf there or not. A private golf course is reserved and is not open to the public. The semi-private golf courses are a membership-based golf course that allows certain public to play on their golf courses, for instance, hotel customers. Bear in mind that re-design and renovation of golf courses is an extremely common thing. Hotels and golf course owners usually renovate their golf courses consistently because people get bored playing in the same golf course over a certain period of time. So, to make it more attractive for golf enthusiasts, they will renovate or improve on the layout of the golf courses. It’ll also be more challenging for return golf enthusiasts.

Keen on improving your golf? Enroll in a golf school, of course!

And if you’re keen on improving your golf, you can even enroll yourself into a golf school. A one-on-one golf course is probably going to cost you an arm and a leg – especially if you’re talking about engaging the services of a professional golf instructor. Budget and time may become an obstacle to a golf enthusiast. So, what is the next best thing to do? To enroll yourself in an affordable golf school, of course. You’ll get to play and have fun at the same time – and if it’s a crash course, it won’t take up too much of your time because the syllabus is cramped into a certain period of time. And because these golf schools give golf lessons in small groups and not on a one-on-one basis, the cost of enrolling in the schools is much more affordable. The newer and broader types of packages offered from some of these golf schools can accommodate golf enthusiasts with all kinds of abilities – from amateurs, beginners to expert golfers.

About The Author


Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.travel-and-play.com on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.

www.articlecity.com

USGA Museum And Arnold Palmer Center On Schedule For 2008 Opening

Extensive progress has been made in the renovation and expansion of the United States Golf Association Museum in north-central New Jersey, where the new home for the world's premier collection of golf artifacts, memorabilia and historical items is on track to open in the spring of 2008.

Located adjacent to the USGA's headquarters, the fully renovated Museum, together with the new Arnold Palmer Center for Golf History will comprise a 33,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility that will display more than 2,000 of the USGA's most treasured artifacts.

"The development of the Palmer Center is just one step -- albeit the most critical one -- in our effort to strengthen the Museum, its programs and its role within the USGA," said USGA President Walter Driver. "Our goal moving forward is to develop and brand the Palmer Center as the premier institution in the world for the study and education of golf history."

Construction of the Palmer Center began in December 2006 and is now more than 70 percent complete. With the exterior of the structure now fully enclosed, workers are focusing on the installation of the building systems and the construction of the interior walls, floors and ceilings.

The Palmer Center will offer more than 7,500 square feet of public space, with more than 5,000 square feet of that space devoted to permanent exhibitions discussing key moments in USGA Championship history. A collection of the nation's most significant golf artifacts and documents also will be displayed here. Many of these artifacts will be on display to the public for the first time.

The museum's galleries will provide visitors with engaging displays enhanced by multi-media elements and interactive kiosks. Collectively, the exhibits will present a new history of golf in the United States, focusing on the relationship between the game and the major historical, political and cultural events of the nation.

The signature architectural feature of the Palmer Center, the Hall of Champions, will celebrate every USGA champion and championship, beginning in 1895 with the first U.S. Amateur. A rotunda, illuminated by a clerestory, will feature all 13 USGA trophies, while listing winners of every championship on bronze panels that encircle the hall. Several kiosks situated throughout the exhibition galleries will host a new USGA Championship database that will allow visitors to search every championship by player, site and year.

Renovations to the interior of the existing museum, which has been closed since March 2005, are concurrently underway. Home for the past 35 years to the USGA Museum (the oldest museum in the country dedicated solely to sports), the renovated building will house offices and meeting rooms on the upper level. The main level will continue to function as a public space, featuring galleries devoted to the accomplishments of Bob Jones, Ben Hogan and Arnold Palmer. The Museum will continue to serve as the main focus for visitors to USGA headquarters and the gift shop will offer newly created products derived from the exhibition experience and world-class collection.

The new USGA Museum and Arnold Palmer Center for Golf History will open to visitors in spring of 2008. A grand opening celebration is planned for June.

For more information, go to www.usga.org or call (908) 234-2300.

Scotland Golf Resort: Dalmahoy Country Club - East Course, Edinburgh, Scotland

The prestigious East Course has recently undergone a £1 million redevelopment and is now the longest course in Scotland at 7,475 yards. The charm, character and challenge inspired by James Braid in 1927 have been retained, yet the extended and beautifully altered course provides a test of nerve for every golfer.

The East Course has hosted major championships such as the Solheim Cup in 1992 and other notable tournaments such as the Scottish PGA Championship on 9 occasions.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: James Braid
* Yardage: 7,475
* Par: 72
* Slope: -
* Rating: -

Orlando Golf Resort: Grande Vista Golf Club

"The course is designed for utmost enjoyment and requires the golfer to use every club in the bag." Ron Garl, Grande Vista Course Architect

Grande Vista Golf Club sits at the headwaters of the Florida Everglades ecosystem. Towering pines, magnificent oaks and beautiful cypress trees surround this 9-hole, 2,300 yard, par 32 gem. Grande Vista works closely with the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary program to preserve the diverse wildlife, flourishing palmettos and exotic wetlands of the property, providing an ambiance that is unlike any other.

While the course will challenge the avid golfer, it was designed with the family in mind to encourage new golfers, both young and old alike, to come and experience the wonderful game of golf. Reserve a tee time at Grande Vista Golf Club.

The golf course is also home to Faldo Golf Institute by Marriott®, where golfers of all skill levels can enroll in instructional programs to learn the technique of six-time major champion, Nick Faldo. This one-of-a-kind golf club is situated next to Marriott's Grande Vista Resort, one of Marriott Vacation Club's most luxurious resorts, and close to all of Orlando's major attractions.

Discover all the amenities of Marriott's Grande Vista Resort.

Royal St. Kitts Golf Club

Breathtaking views of the ocean and the sea.

One of the top rated championship courses in the Caribbean region, Royal St. Kitts Golf Club offers 18 picturesque holes alongside the black sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean and stretching to the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea.

The magnificent layout by famed Canadian architect Thomas McBroom features 125 acres of lush grass that takes full advantage of the spectacular natural terrain of this much-loved Caribbean destination island. Royal St. Kitts Golf Club prides itself on providing impeccable course conditions, unsurpassed customer service and the most scenic course in the region. Reserve a tee time at the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club.

The golf course is adjacent to the St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino, offering luxurious accommodations amidst a relaxing tropical setting. Discover more about all of the recreational and spa amenities of the St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino.

New Fought Design Set To Open In November in Indian Wells

Also underway: new course in southern Utah, restoration in Toronto

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., … The newest John Fought design, the Player’s Course, is to formally debut the week after Thanksgiving at Indian Wells Golf Resort in Indian Wells, Calif.

“It’s a wonderful design that presents challenges and rewards that can be experienced by all golfers,” said Roger Behling, golf resort director, City of Indian Wells. “John’s knowledge clearly shows through. The course just came out great and will be a lot of fun to play.”

While the 7,400-yard, par 72 officially opens Nov. 27, a grand opening celebration is planned for early 2008 in conjunction with the completion of the resort’s new 53,000-square-foot clubhouse.

Fought also designed the resort’s new practice facility, as well as a lighted 18-hole putting course.

The Player’s Course will be unveiled just days after the resort plays host to the 2007 LG Skins Game. The 25th anniversary version is set for Thanksgiving weekend (Nov. 24-25) at Indian Wells Golf Resort’s already completed Celebrity Course, which was designed by Clive Clark. This year’s participants are Zach Johnson, Brett Wetterich, Stephen Ames and Fred Couples.

No decision has been reached on the site of the 2008 Skins Game but it is anticipated that Fought’s new Player’s Course, part of a $61 million construction project at Indian Wells Golf Resort, will command serious consideration. The event is in its first year of a three-year contract to remain in the Coachella Valley.

Elsewhere, other new Fought projects include:

• Golf Club at Sand Hollow Resort; Hurricane, Utah. The latest addition to the southern Utah golf landscape is scheduled to open next spring. Fought is constructing both an 18-hole Championship Course and a St. Andrews Nine at this new residential golf resort 10 miles from St. George. The 27-hole complex incorporates ridgeline, canyon and elevation variations into a memorable golf experience.

“John has done a phenomenal job with the courses,” said Thomas Seneca, president, Sand Hollow Golf Resort. “We had high expectations here and I’m very pleased to say he has exceeded those expectations.”

Fought, a collegiate golf star at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, said he has been visiting the St. George area for 35 years and has never tired of the region because of its rugged, natural beauty.

“This is a great site because it has some of the most stunning views of the beautiful red rock formations and mountains as a backdrop,” Fought said. “The topography is wonderful and I think it will compare favorably to anything in the western part of the United States.”

The 900-acre resort is accessible with flights into St. George from Los Angeles or Salt Lake City, or a 90-minute drive from McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas.

• Rosedale Golf Club; Toronto, Canada. Fought, who has gained a reputation for deftly restoring classic courses, is in the midst of restoring this course (1909) in two phases.

“The course has undergone subtle changes over the years and lost its identity. John has done an incredible job restoring 18 holes that are consistent and have the feel of one architect,” said Peter Oldfield, general manager, Rosedale Golf Club.

Fought’s initial efforts are focused on the reshaping of all the bunkers and tees on the courses, while the next phase, to begin in 2008, will concentrate on the rebuilding of one to three greens and finishing off any work not completed in 2007.

The 6,500-yard, par 71 (par 73 for women) course is the centerpiece of this venerable club.

A banner year

A former PGA Tour competitor, Fought has enjoyed a design career breakout 2007, with five courses — a blend of solo designs, co-designs and restorations —hosting significant events:

The Gallery Golf Club-South Course, located near Tucson, Ariz., and one of Fought’s most heralded solo designs, was the site of February’s Accenture Match Play Championship.

Pine Needles Golf Club, where Fought earlier had completed a widely acclaimed restoration of the Ross classic in Southern Pines, N.C., hosted the U.S. Women’s Open in late June/early July.

Somerby Golf Club, a Fought co-design in Byron, Minn., welcomed the Nationwide Tour’s Scholarship America Showdown in mid-July.

Crosswater Golf Club at Sunriver Resort in Sunriver, Ore., was home to both the Jeld-Wen Tradition, a major on the Champions Tour, in August as well as the PGA Club National Championship in June.

Meadows Golf Club, also at Sunriver Resort, served as the host course for the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship in September.

For more information about Scottsdale, Ariz.-based John Fought Design, call (480) 991-9858 or visit www.foughtdesign.com.

National Panel Of Raters Recognizes Golfweek's Best New Courses

Golfweek Magazine, the publication preferred by serious golfers, released its annual list of Golfweek's Best New Courses for 2007, in its October 20 issue.

Golfweek's Best New Courses list recognizes the high quality that architects and builders have delivered at the top 50 public, private and resort courses all of which have opened since 2005.

"Golfweek's list of the best new courses is a fascinating cross-section of what it takes today to have an impact in a tough market," said Golfweek's Best Courses program director and architecture editor, Bradley S. Klein. "Tradition seems to be a major element, with many of our top new designs, including No. 1 Bandon Trails, No. 2 Chambers Bay, and No. 3 Sebonack, emphasizing walkability, caddies, and links-style golf."

The No. 1 spot on the list was awarded for the second year in a row to Bandon Trails, a Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw design that opened in 2005 in Bandon, Ore. Coming in a close second is Chambers Bay Golf Club, designed by Bruce Charlton & Robert Trent Jones Jr. The Rees Jones-designed Daniel Island - Ralston Creek in Charleston, S.C., rounds out the Top 50.

The list is derived from the efforts of Golfweek's course raters. This nationwide team of more than 450 evaluators regularly surveys over 1,800 golf courses and renders their judgment on the basis of 10 standards of evaluation.

The Golfweek's Best New Courses, Classic, Modern, and state-by-state lists, may be found at Golfweek.com.

Founded in 1975, Golfweek magazine is the publication preferred by serious golfers. It delivers the most complete news and information about the game, the people and the golf lifestyle, to golf's most important audience. Golfweek is part of Turnstile Publishing Company, which is one of the nation's leading publishing companies, specializing in high-end publications for active and affluent audiences. Turnstile Publishing Co. is the parent corporation of such publications as TurfNet, GLO, Fish & Fly, Art Calendar, GeezerJock, TurfNet.com, GLOliving.com, ArtCalendar.com, GolfweekHomes.com, GeezerJock.com and Golfweek.com which features golf's first online television network, GolfweekTV. Turnstile Publishing Co., is headquartered in Orlando, Fla., and is also affiliated with Skyhorse Publishing.


2007 Golfweek's Best New Courses

1. Bandon Trails, Bandon, OR, Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw, 2005
2. Chambers Bay GC, University Place, WA, Bruce Charlton, Robert Trent Jones, Jr., 2007
3. Sebonak GC, Southampton, NY, Tom Doak, Jack Nicklaus, 2006
4. Ballyneal, Holyoke, CO, Tom Doak, 2006
5. Bright's Creek GC, Mill Spring, NC, Tom Fazio, 2006
6. Bayonne GC, Bayonne, NJ, Eric Bergstol, 2006
7. Concession GC, Sarasota, FL, Jack Nicklaus, 2006
8. Colorado GC, Parker, CO, Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw, 2007
9. Pronghorn - Fazio Course, Bend, OR, Tom Fazio, 2006
10. Boston GG, Hingham, MA, Gil Hanse, 2005

11. Fallen Oak, Saucier, MS, Tom Fazio, 2006
12. The Territory, Duncan, OK, Randy Heckenkemper, 2005
13. Whisper Rock - Upper Course, Scottsdale, AZ, Tom Fazio, 2005
14. Olde Stone, Bowling Green, KY, Arthur Hills, 2006
15. We-Ko-Pa GC - Saguaro, Fountain Hills, AZ, Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw, 2006
16. Forest Creek GC - North Course, Southern Pines, NC, Tom Fazio, 2005
17. Three Creek Ranch, Jackson, WY, Rees Jones, 2005
18. Creek Club, Oconee, GA, Jim Engh, 2007
19. Liberty National, Jersey City, NJ, Bob Cupp, Tom Kite, 2006
20. Lakota Canyon, New Castle, CO, Jim Engh, 2005

21. Greywalls, Marquette, MI, Mike Devries, 2005
22. Atchafalaya GC at Idlewild, Patterson, LA, Robert von Hagge, 2005
23. Headwaters Club at Teton Springs, Victor, ID, Gary Stephenson, 2005
24. Shelter Harbor GC, Westerly, RI, Dana Fry, Michael Hurdzan, 2005
25. Spring Creek GC, Xions Crossroads, VA, Ed Carton, 2006
26. Erin Hills GC, Hartford, WI, Dana Fry, Michael Hurdzan, 2006
27. Blackstone GC, Peoria, AZ, Jim Engh, 2006
28. Stone Eagle GC, Palm Desert, CA, Tom Doak, 2005
29. Three Crowns GC, Casper, WY, Robert Trent Jones, Jr., 2005
30. Tesoro Club, Port St. Lucie, FL, Arnold Palmer, 2005

31. Tumble Creek, Roslyn, WA, Tom Doak, 2005
32. The Classic Club, Palm Desert, CA, Arnold Palmer, 2006
33. Tuhaye, Tuhaye, UT, Mark O'Meara, 2005
34. Lake of Isles - North Course, North Stonington, CT, Rees Jones, 2005
35. Lake of Isles - South Course, North Stonington, CT, Rees Jones, 2005
36. Osprey Meadows GC, Donnelly, ID, Bruce Charlton, Robert Trent Jones, Jr., 2006
37. Canyata, Marshall, IL, Mike Benkusky, 2005
38. Grande Dunes - Members Course, Myrtle Beach, SC, Craig Schreiner, 2005
39. The River Club, Suwanee, GA, Greg Norman, 2005
40. Grizzly Ranch GC, Portola, CA, Bob Cupp, 2005

41. Andalusia CC, LaQuinta, CA, Rees Jones, 2006
42. Dismal River Club, Mullen, NE, Jack Nicklaus, 2006
43. Pradera, Parker, CO, Jim Engh, 2005
44. Cliffs at Walnut Cove, Arden, NC, Jack Nicklaus, 2005
45. Bayside GC, Fenwick Island, DE, Rick Jacobson, Jack Nicklaus, 2005
46. Southern Hills Plantation Club, Brooksville, FL, Pete Dye, 2005
47. Oxford Greens GC, Oxford, CT, Mark Mungeam, 2005
48. The Peninsula Golf Course, Millsboro, DE, Jack Nicklaus, 2006
49. Home Course, DuPont, WA, Mike Asmundson, 2007
50. Daniel Island - Ralston Creek, Charleston, SC, Rees Jones, 2006

Marriott Golf's Grande Pines Golf Club Recognized As A Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary

Marriott Golf, one of the world's premier golf operators, today announced that Grande Pines Golf Club, in Orlando, FL, has become Audubon Certified through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for golf courses (ACSP). The ACSP is a program that helps golf facilities protect the environment by enhancing precious natural areas and wildlife habitats that golf courses provide.

Featuring 18-holes of Championship golf designed by renowned architect Steve Smyers, in collaboration with player consultant Nick Faldo, Grande Pines Golf Club is one of two Marriott Golf operated courses that are Audubon Certified. Stone Mountain Golf Club, in Stone Mountain, GA, received this eco-friendly recognition in 2006.

As part of its environmental stewardship, Marriott Golf initiates extensive community education and outreach in the Orlando-area to promote its breadth of programs at Grande Pines. In fact, Grande Pines partnered with Boy Scouts of America Troop 996, and the Endeavor Elementary School, to develop a butterfly garden at the school, which serves as an outdoor classroom. As part of the program, the staff at Grande Pines supports the Endeavor Elementary School to educate students on the importance of preserving the environment and assisting with routine maintenance of the garden.

"We are thrilled to announce that another Marriott Golf managed course has become Audubon Certified," said Robert Waller, Senior Director of Golf Grounds. "Marriott Golf's overall commitment to protecting and preserving the environment is at the forefront of the golf industry, and moving forward, our goal is to have all of our facilities reach this high level of environmental consciousness."

Waller adds, "What makes this program even more important, especially in the Orlando-area, is the community outreach that enables us to utilize our environmental programs to benefit kids, such as with the butterfly garden that we created at Endeavor Elementary School. Working with schools, Boy Scouts, and other organizations allows us to educate the community on the important role that golf courses can play in enhancing the environment."

In order to achieve Audubon Certification, a golf facility is required to demonstrate that it is maintaining the highest degree of environmental quality in several areas including Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management. Thus, one of Grande Pines' first projects was to implement a long range environmental plan encompassing all of these areas, which included improvements to the drainage system, irrigation upgrades, turf renovation, native area enhancements, and facility/clubhouse improvements. As part of the Chemical Use Reduction, the facility implemented an integrated pest management program, which limits the amount of preventative pesticides used on the greens. In addition, enhancements to native areas of the course were made on several holes.

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat, and protect natural resources. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, and Southeast Asia have also achieved certification in the program.

About Marriott Golf
Marriott Golf manages 63 golf courses at 47 locations in 15 countries, offering more than 1,000 holes of Championship golf. Marriott has been managing golf operations since 1970 and is one of the world's premier golf operators. Marriott provides golf management and consulting services to a variety of operational environments including resort, private club, daily fee, golf school and franchises. For more information, visit www.marriottgolf.com.

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, INC. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company with nearly 2,900 lodging properties in the United States and 67 other countries and territories. Marriott International operates and franchises hotels under the Marriott, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Courtyard, TownePlace Suites, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites and Bulgari brand names; develops and operates vacation ownership resorts under the Marriott Vacation Club, Horizons by Marriott Vacation Club, The Ritz-Carlton Club and Grand Residences by Marriott brands; operates Marriott Executive Apartments; provides furnished corporate housing through its Marriott ExecuStay division; and operates conference centers. The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and had approximately 151,000 employees at 2006 year-end. It is ranked as the lodging industry's most admired company and one of the best places to work for by FORTUNE®. The company is also a 2006 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ENERGY STAR® Partner. In fiscal year 2006, Marriott International reported sales from continuing operations of $12.2 billion. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com.

Golfpac Travel Announces "The Trip Of A Lifetime" Giveaway

Golfpac Travel will once again award one lucky winner a six night trip for two to The St. Andrews Golf Week to be held April 20-26, 2008 in "The Trip of A Lifetime" Giveaway.

Golfpac International and Links Golf St. Andrews have teamed up to offer this once in a lifetime opportunity to win a vacation for two to the St. Andrews Golf Week. The grand prize package includes a six night stay at the famous Old Course Hotel, five rounds of golf on the area's finest courses (St. Andrews Old Course; St. Andrews New Course; St. Andrews Jubilee Course; St. Andrews Eden Course and The Duke's Course), full Scottish breakfast each day, six dinners including the Gala dinner on the final evening with presentation of prizes, and courtesy transfers from hotels to golf courses.

To make the trip even more memorable, the winner and his guest will enjoy coaching sessions with leading Scottish professionals, as well as competitions with and against other golfers from all over the world. During the week the winner will participate in scramble, stableford, greensome, am-am, medal play, nearest the hole, and longest drive competitions. There's also plenty of time to relax and enjoy the magical atmosphere of this historic university town.

Golfers are encouraged to register now by visiting the contest page online at: http://www.golfpacinternational.com/Intl/index.cfm/action/standrews/

About Golfpac®. Since 1975, Golfpac has specialized in custom tailored golf vacations to world-class golf destinations such as Florida, the Carolinas, Vegas, California, Arizona, Scotland and Ireland. Golfpac sales agents (aka "Golf Travel Experts") deal directly with each group to ensure all trip details are well taken care of including tee times, accommodations, and ground transportation. Golfpac's high-powered website, www.golfpactravel.com, allows travelers to research, quote, and book their golf vacation. Best of all, there's something for every budget with over 800 hotels, resorts, and golf courses represented. Call our toll-free reservations line at 800-327-0878 for more information or visit www.golfpactravel.com.

Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa Invites You to Experience Sensational Golf with the New Escape Golf Package

With prices starting at an unbelievable $195 per night, Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa is inviting all who love the game of golf to experience the highly anticipated Escape Northern Alabama Golf Package at the Shoals.

Florence, AL (PRWEB) -- With prices starting at an unbelievable $195 per night, Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa is inviting all who love the game of golf to experience the highly anticipated Escape Northern Alabama Golf Package at the Shoals.

From beginning golfers to the pros, all are welcome to discover the beauty and magnitude of the legendary Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.

Sometimes it's all about the golf, especially on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Yet, when you add in a luxurious spa, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the Tennessee River, you've got a getaway to remember at Alabama's newest Four Diamond Hotel, the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa.

The Escape Golf Package includes the following:


- Luxury accommodations for one night
- Two rounds of golf at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at the Shoals
- Rates from $195 - $250 per night*

Indulge in four remarkable Muscle Shoals, Alabama restaurants including the acclaimed 360 Grille & Lounge, featuring eclectic cuisine in Alabama's only revolving restaurant atop the Renaissance Tower. Bronzeback Café boasts comfort cuisine, while Swampers Bar & Grill honors the rich musical heritage of Alabama by hosting live music celebrating local sounds.

This world-class hotel also houses a state-of-the-art, European spa. The Spa at the Shoals offers luxurious treatments to rejuvenate the body and invigorate the mind. With an array of spa options, from body scrubs and facials to massages and steam rooms, this refreshing Florence, Alabama spa is a step above the rest.**

Wonderful for a weekend away or a week-long golf getaway, the Marriott Shoals Hotel offers every desired amenity, creating the pinnacle of peace of mind.

About Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa:
Inspired by Southern hospitality, discover a Florence, Alabama hotel where conservative elegance and the beauty of nature combine for a memorable experience. Set in the heart of the Tennessee River Valley, this Alabama golf resort invites you to experience a new level of refinement and charm among hotels in Florence, Alabama. Plush guest rooms feature comfortable luxury and modern conveniences, as well as private balconies providing stunning views of the river. Just minutes away are two championship Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail courses that offer a challenge, yet attract players of all skill levels, from amateur to pro. This Alabama spa resort allows you to refresh your body, mind, and spirit at the 6,000 square foot European spa, delivering the pinnacle of rejuvenation. Versatile meeting space, elegant banquet facilities, and a delicious selection of restaurants enhance the cultured ambiance found at the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa. For more information, or to make a reservation, call (800) 593-6450 or visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mslmc-marriott-shoals-hotel-and-spa/

*Packages are based on availability and start at $195. Be sure that the promotional code GOF appears in the Corporate/Promotional code box when making your online reservation, or call 1-800-228-9290 in the US and ask for promotional code GOF.

**Appointments are required for The Spa at the Shoals, call (256) 246- 3696 for appointments.

Spain Golf Resort: Son Antem, Mallorca

Two stunning courses in a Mediterranean paradise. Nestled in the heart of the Mallorcan landscape, among trees fragrant with olives and almonds, is the Son Antem Golf Club. Only 20 minutes from Palma and its airport, Son Antem is a world away from anything you’ve experienced on a golf course before. Its two 18-hole golf courses are beautifully designed, but offer challenges to experts and beginners alike.

Reserve a tee time at Son Antem Golf Club. Son Antem Golf Club is adjacent to the Mallorca Marriott Son Antem Golf Resort & Spa, which offers luxurious rooms and suites, delightful Mediterranean cuisine, and the Holistic Lifestyle Spa. Discover more about the business conference and personal vacation amenities available at Mallorca Marriott Son Antem Golf Resort & Spa.



With fragrant olive and almond trees perfuming the sun-kissed air, the Mallorca Marriott Son Antem Golf Resort & Spa is a paradise for golfers, pleasure seekers and meeting attendees alike. Close to Palma, the airport and famed beaches, it provides an exceptional experience often emulated by other hotels in Mallorca. Its beguiling local country decor offers guests a rare haven, especially in spacious, finely furnished guest rooms offering plush new bedding and tranquil views from the balcony or terrace. Two tempting restaurants offer the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. And for challenging golf, the Mallorca Marriott Son Antem is the only resort in the area with two 18-hole courses, and features an impressive driving range and Golf Academy staffed with PGA pros. The Holistic Lifestyle Spa is a blissful retreat, with a warm water pool, fitness center and indulgent spa treatments. For special events, 467 square meters of meeting space can be transformed to meet your most exacting needs.
Hotel Highlights

* The wide and spacious resort offers two 18-hole golf courses and a luxurious Spa.
* The Mediterranean destination is located close to the airport, Palma and stunning beaches.
* The 5 star service is one of the main priorities in the resort.

Jamaica Golf Resort: White Witch Golf Club

Winding through the mountains of Jamaica's historic 4,000 acre Rose Hall Plantation, The White Witch golf course is carved out of 600 acres of lush greenery and rolling countryside, featuring panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea on 16 of its 18 holes.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: Robert von Hagge and Rick Baril
* Yardage: 6,719
* Par: 71
* Slope: 139
* Rating: 74.0

Pocono Mountains Provide Excellent Setting to Pair Championship Golf with Meetings, Corporate Outings, Other Large-Scale Functions

POCONO MOUNTAINS, Pennsylvania - The Pocono Mountains - easily accessible from New York City, Philadelphia and Washington D.C. and a stone's throw from Newark, New Jersey - are the ideal location for meeting planners to schedule their next event. Whether it's a weeklong convention for many or an afternoon meeting for a few, the venerable destination offers all the necessary facilities and additional amenities to make the event a success.

A popular vacation spot for generations, the Pocono Mountains have undergone a rejuvenation over the last few years and now offer state-of-the-art meetings facilities, while not losing the charm and comfortable familiarity people have grown to know and embrace.

The Pocono Mountains properties are competitively priced and well versed in catering to the business world. That said, all events, from religious retreats to teambuilding programs and everything in between, fall within the expertise of the hospitality professionals. Organizations hosting events can take comfort in knowing their clients, members and guests will be treated with unmatched excellence.

"The location of the Pocono Mountains has made our properties increasingly popular among big-city businesses and organizations when planning an event," says Robert Uguccioni, Executive Director of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. "The Pocono Mountains are close enough to make the trip convenient, but seemingly miles away when you step outside and into this lush mountain setting."

Successful events aren't solely about what takes place within the meeting facility. With that in mind, the Pocono Mountains are flush with hundreds of holes of golf from legendary designers from the Golden Era of golf course architecture such as Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast and today's top names like the Golden Bear, Jack Nicklaus.

The assortment of golf courses provides something for every golfer's taste - tough enough to challenge the lowest handicaps or fair enough for a novice to enjoy a round in this spectacular setting.

Understanding that meetings don't always work around the ideal golf schedule, the Pocono Mountains also feature a nine-hole lighted golf course for evening play.

The four-season destination boasts much more than golf alone on its list of amenities. Countless rivers and streams allow for outdoor water activities such as fishing, kayaking and white water rafting, while sporting clays, biking, horseback riding, camping and hiking are plentiful. In addition, snow boarding, downhill and cross country skiing are just a few of the winter activities available in the Pocono Mountains.

If it's time to schedule a business meeting or a long overdue retreat for family, friends or colleagues, it's time for the Pocono Mountains.

For more information on scheduling the perfect meeting while discovering golf's great destination secret, visit www.800poconos.com or call 800-POCONOS (800-762-6667).

About the "Pocono Mountains: Discover Golf's Great Destination Secret"

The Pocono Mountains has long been known to avid travelers and mountain aficionados for its lush, relaxing family friendly ambiance and romantic setting, as well as its fall foliage, winter skiing, spring-summer outdoor recreation options and natural beauty. Numerous lakes, parks and other environmental wonderlands are found throughout the four-county Pocono Mountains region.

Discerning golfers are well aware that the Pocono Mountains are home to golf courses designed by renowned architects such as Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast. Pocono Mountains golf properties and value-laden golf packages are available on www.poconosgolf.com, which allows players to enjoy majestic mountain-view scenery, the area's natural splendor, year-round amenities and unequaled value and variety.

Attributes of the golf-and-resort properties and destination include:

Home to hundreds of golf holes at numerous clubs, many located close to one another:
• Two NASCAR races held annually each spring-summer
• Golden Era of Golf Architecture period designs strongly represented by legendary designers Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast
• Golf, lodging and resort accommodations at all price points, from luxury to value
• Hiking, biking, camping, spas, horseback riding, boating, fishing, hunting and many other activities
• Attractions, festivals and other special events
• Meeting and conference facilities
• Great food at a wide array of eating establishments and resort restaurants
• Bed & breakfasts, country inns and resorts
• Antique shops, outlet malls and other unique shopping venues

Egypt Golf Resort: Mirage City Golf Club, Cairo

When it comes to premier golf experiences in Egypt, Mirage City Golf Club has it all. Combining the highest level of golf conditions with Marriott's signature service makes Mirage City one of the best courses in the area. Playing 6,944 yards, this par 72 course will provide a friendly challenge for golfers of all skill levels.

About the Course: 18 holes, Par 72, 6944 yards, rating 73, three tees
Who can Play: Annual memberships, daily golf for guests at Marriott, tourist groups welcome
Golf Services: Pro Shop, caddies, power carts, driving range, club rental, tournaments, beverage and food service on the course
Learning to Play: Golf Pro, lessons, swing analyzer and other electronic equipment, golf academy
About the Clubhouse: Three restaurants, function rooms, bar, billiards, library, board room
The JW Marriott Hotel: Opening in May 2001, the JW Marriott has 375 guest rooms and suites, six restaurants, four bars, function rooms, four swimming pools, sauna, steam, exercise facilities, health spa, equestrian club

When it comes to great golf experiences, the newly opened Golf Club at the Mirage City JW Marriott hotel doesn't miss a detail. Visitors to Cairo can now experience a new level of excellence in both hospitality and golf. By erecting one of the world's most palatial clubhouses and the Mid-East's most unique and challenging golf designs, the Mirage City Golf Club and Marriott can provide both individuals and groups with all their golf, catering and dining needs.

Costa Rica Golf Resort: Los Suenos, Herradura Bay

Nestled alongside an exotic rainforest with beautiful ocean views of the Costa Rican Pacific Coast, the Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort hosts an extraordinary encounter with nature for any golfer...an excellent test of golf, one hole after another. It's a unique golf experience that will impress you while playing in this tropical paradise.


18-hole championship golf course (Course rating: 73.4, Par 72, Slope 145). Get into the swing of things on Costa Rica´s most exotic golf course.

To play this Par 72, 6.700 yard course is a golfers dream. Designed by Ted Robinson, this championship golf course is considered to be naturally challenging as golfers play through the wilds of the Costa Rican jungle.

Landscaped to include exotic native plants, banana trees and orchids, more than 150 species of birds as well as monkeys and other wildlife have been identified on the grounds. Imagine the surprise of one player whose golf ball was stolen by a monkey off of the 4th green.

PGA Qualified Golf Professionals, a vast driving range, putting green and Taylormade rental equipment provide members with the finest in facilities and services. No matter what your current level of play, our state-of-the-art equipment and team of professionals are dedicated to assisting you with achieving your golfing goals.

Blue Monster Golf Course To Feature Inclusive Caddie Service

Playing The Famed Blue Course At Doral Golf Resort & Spa Now Enhanced By Caddie Program That Provides Expert Guides To One Of The Game's Greatest Golf Experiences

Miami, Fla. - October 11, 2007…Doral Golf Resort & Spa, A Marriott Resort, one of the world's premier golf destinations, today announced that from January 1st to May 20th, 2008, any round of golf purchased on the famed Blue Monster, one of Doral's five Championship golf courses, will feature an inclusive caddie service. With this new program, a forecaddie will be assigned to each foursome, providing golfers with an expert guide to one of the game's great golf experiences.

Doral, which introduced an optional resort caddie program in 2006, is making the Blue Course "caddie inclusive" in an effort to further enhance the already world class experience for golfers playing on the famed course, which is home to the CA Championship, a World Golf Championship event, and site of the longest running PGA TOUR event in Florida.

As part of the Blue Monster's "caddie inclusive" program, each foursome of golf will receive one forecaddie that is trained on every aspect of the course, including history, layout, course conditions, distances and even the many legendary stories that have become synonymous with the Blue Monster among both professional and celebrity golfers since 1962.

"We decided to make the Blue Monster caddie inclusive because we want golfers to experience the history and tradition of the course, from strategic shot making to entertaining stories that have been passed on over the years," said Darrin Helfrick, General Manager of Golf, Doral Golf Resort & Spa, A Marriott Resort. "This is truly one of the game's treasured courses, and this caddie program will enhance the overall golfing experience, while making history come to life."

Doral's overall resort caddie program, which is managed and maintained by CADDIEMASTER, the leading provider of caddie services, based in Pinehurst, N.C., features two options: the full service caddie and the forecaddie. The full service caddie option provides golfers with the ultimate caddie experience and will include carrying bags, offering shot selection advice, raking bunkers, spotting wayward shots, reading greens, tending pins, cleaning balls and getting yardage. For golfers that prefer to ride, the forecaddie service provides all of the above mentioned services with the exception of carrying bags.

The 693-room Doral Resort, which is managed by Marriott International and is officially named the Doral Golf Resort & Spa, A Marriott Resort, joined Marriott's first-class portfolio of 60 resorts worldwide in August of 2004. In managing the golf business operations at Doral, Marriott International enlisted its in-house golf management arm, Marriott Golf, the world's largest resort golf management company, and the first in-house golf management team ever established by a lodging company. Currently, Marriott Golf oversees more than 150,000 rounds of golf per year on Doral's five Championship golf courses.

CADDIEMASTER is the leading provider of caddie management services in the United States and Abroad. Founded in 1993, CADDIEMASTER now manages the caddie services at a variety of world-class golf venues including Augusta National Golf Club, Kiawah Island Club, Pebble Beach Golf Links, PGA National Resort, Pinehurst Resort, TPC Sawgrass, Whistling Straits, and numerous Ritz-Carlton golf facilities, among others.

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, INC. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company with nearly 2,900 lodging properties in the United States and 67 other countries and territories. Marriott International operates and franchises hotels under the Marriott, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Courtyard, TownePlace Suites, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites and Bulgari brand names; develops and operates vacation ownership resorts under the Marriott Vacation Club, Horizons by Marriott Vacation Club, The Ritz-Carlton Club and Grand Residences by Marriott brands; operates Marriott Executive Apartments; provides furnished corporate housing through its Marriott ExecuStay division; and operates conference centers. The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and had approximately 151,000 employees at 2006 year-end. It is ranked as the lodging industry's most admired company and one of the best places to work for by FORTUNE®. The company is also a 2006 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ENERGY STAR® Partner. In fiscal year 2006, Marriott International reported sales from continuing operations of $12.2 billion. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com.

Course Renovation at Meadowlands Country Club Takes another Step toward Completion

There are two basic paths toward renovation of the golf course at a private country club. The first, and most complete renovation, means closing the course to all play and doing the work over a 12-to18 month period. During that time members depend on the hospitality of neighboring private clubs to continue playing golf.

The other path is a gradual one. It takes a lot longer but, if done properly, play is minimally affected on the home course.

The latter path is the one that was recently chosen by Meadowlands CC in Blue Bell, Pa., after first embarking on the former, with mixed results.

In 1995 a major step was taken when the entire course was closed and rebuilt over a period of 12 months. At that time, a decision was made not to rebuild 11 of the original 1950 vintage greens because of their classic contouring. Unfortunately, the ravages of 21st century agronomic diseases care little for such niceties and those greens became prone to fungi related problems. In 2000, three additional new greens were constructed. That left the course with eight old holes - excellent designs, but hampered by old, clay-based, disease prone green complexes.

This year, with the addition of two newly built additional greens, giving the course 20 greens, two entirely new green complexes were installed on holes 4 and 18. At the same time, member play continued through the construction period on an 18-hole golf course that was still enjoyable and challenging.

"I was instructed to do the renovations in such a way that we could keep the golf course open," said Len Ehrlich, green chairman at Meadowlands. "That's not always the easiest path, but it's the one that keeps the members happiest."

First, the design team headed by highly acclaimed architect Rick Jacobsen was brought in to re-shape the greens and bring the bunker complexes into unison with the others on the course. Jacobsen was responsible for the designs at two other courses in the Philadelphia area - Makefield Highlands in Bucks County and Bear Trap Dunes at the Delaware Shore. He has designed courses all over the world, including recent work in China.

Also, Total Turf of Chalfont, Pa. was hired to do the construction.

"We researched both of these companies thoroughly and felt they were best equipped to do what we wanted, the way we wanted things done," stressed Ehrlich. "We have a definitive master plan and we are determined to stick to it."

Superintendent Jim Lynagh has seen the entire process evolve and understands the impact.

"Sure, some of the renovations target playability, adding more challenge to some holes, improving the aesthetics and other things," said Lynagh. "But the constant throughout every bit of renovation we have done is that the agronomic condition of the course is improved.

"Whether it involves tree removal, which is one of the most important parts, or aerification techniques or drainage, it results in better conditioning," added Lynagh. "This has been such a long process but every little baby step brings us closer and closer to our final goal and that is to have an exceptional and healthy golf course."

The rest of the plan includes renovation of three more holes without interruption of play next year. The final three holes will be renovated in 2009. By having 20 full greens complexes, the course can be rerouted during the construction process to allow the continued play of 18 holes.

For more information and photos regarding Meadowlands CC, contact TL Golf Services at 610-279-9220.

Travelwell Holidays Launches Great Golfing Breaks Campaign

(PRLEAP.COM) Travelwell Holidays, the golf breaks in Portugal specialists, have launched a new initiative to match the UK’s legions of golfers with their perfect green and terrific tee time views in one of Europe’s most resplendent golfing destinations.

Quinta do Lago on the Portuguese Algarve boasts a number of courses rated amongst the top 25 on the continent. One of thelargest golf destinations in the area and packed full of facilities and specialist amenities for the novice to the professional golfer, Quinta del Lago has hosted several Portuguese opens and is a popular venue for national and international competitions.

Travelwell Holidays has several hand-picked villas and apartments superbly located close to a number of championship golf courses available for immediate occupation. Each property has been visited by a Travelwell Holiday’s representative before being included on the golf break accommodation agenda, ensuring clients of the pioneering golf concierge travel agency enjoy only the best villas and apartments in the area.

Suitable for small groups of golfers and larger club breaks, the Loulé Quinta do Lago villa is particularly popular due to its south facing location in the sought-after Quinta do Lago leisure resort. Sleeping ten people, with private gardens, pool, satellite television, air conditioning, 24-hour security and five en-suite bedrooms is a haven of rest and relaxation after a challenging day on the nearby fairways.

For golfers wanting to experience a slice of village life firsthand, Travelwell Holiday’s is currently marketing a private, single level three bedroom villa, located in a quiet cul-de-sac just a stone’s throw from the golf club and driving range. Perfect for a last minute getaway, this spacious villa sleeps six people and has an outdoor barbeque area, large lounge, mature gardens and private pool.

All Quinta do Lago golf courses have first class driving ranges, golf academy, club houses and putting greens. The perfect place to enjoy winter sunshine and with a climate seemingly designed for year-round golfing, Quinta Do Lago is a member of the PGA European Tour Courses Ltd.

To be matched with your perfect golf break accommodation in Quinta do Lago and the Algarve, visit www.travelwellholidays.com.

Editor’s Note:

Please direct all media enquiries to Rebecca Appleton. E-mail: Rebecca@topposition.co.uk, Tel: 0800 094 9001

About This Release
If you have any questions regarding information in these press releases please contact the organization listed in the press release. Issuers of press releases and not PR Leap are solely responsible for the accuracy of the content.

PGA Tour Player John Daly Helps Unveil Sevillano Links

The first John Daly Signature Course Opened in the West; Grand Opening Event is a Sell-Out and will be a Huge Win for Local Charities

Corning, CA- Sevillano Links at Rolling Hills Casino will officially open its doors on Monday, October 15, 2007 with an Inaugural Golf Tournament benefiting United Way of Northern California. PGA Tour Player John Daly will be on hand for the course unveiling and charity event. Sevillano Links is the first John Daly Signature Course with a West Coast address. It's located in Corning, CA, 90 miles north of the Sacramento region which is coincidently, Daly's birthplace (Carmichael, CA).

The breathtaking highlands links course (collaboratively designed with the help and endorsement of Daly), will kick-off its grand opening with an 8:30 a.m. ribbon cutting ceremony followed by a media conference with the five-time PGA Tour winner. Next, a long game clinic and driving exhibition will be conducted by the ever-popular Daly. During the tournament, Daly will position himself at the par 5 18th hole (which spans 686 yards from the John Daly tees) and will hit a ceremonial drive with each foursome. Following tournament play, participants will attend a reception and awards banquet at Carlino's Event Center hosted by Mr. Daly, Sevillano Links and Rolling Hills Casino.

The par-72 course spans 400 acres of rolling terrain and features native grasses, ponds, and more than fifty bunkers. Bermuda tees and fairways, accented by areas of bluegrass/rye rough, and bentgrass greens, highlight the 120+ acres of manicured turf which meanders through tribal land. With five sets of tee markers ranging from the forward set at 5,429-yards to the John Daly tees measuring 7,823 yards, the course appeals to golfers of varying skill levels. Designed with a tee flexibility factor, mid-to-advanced players may choose to experience the course from a different set of tees from time to time. "You don't have to play the same course out here," said John Daly. "That's what's unique about it."

The rareness of Sevillano Links will be evident during the 2008 season when course operators host their first "grip-it-and-rip-it" style tournament, with all 18 holes set to play as par 5s (from an "unpublished" set of tees) stretching the distance to over 10,000 yards. "We're excited about the novel idea of having our course play ginormously long for a special event now and then," stated PGA director of golf Brian Dahmer. "But in the meantime, we're extremely pleased with the wide selection of tee we are able to provide players on a daily basis."

For more information on Sevillano Links visit http://www.sevillanolinks.com/index2.html.
To learn more about Rolling Hills Casino visit http://www.rollinghillscasino.com/.

It is through the vision of the Pakenta Band of Nomlaki Indians that Sevillano Links and Rolling Hills Casino are available for enjoyment to all who enter course or casino. Additionally, both establishments are committed to enhancing employment opportunities and economic vitality within the neighboring region.

Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa Invites You to Experience Sensational Golf with the New Escape Golf Package

Florence, AL (PRWEB) October 11, 2007 -- With prices starting at an unbelievable $195 per night, Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa is inviting all who love the game of golf to experience the highly anticipated Escape Northern Alabama Golf Package at the Shoals.

From beginning golfers to the pros, all are welcome to discover the beauty and magnitude of the legendary Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.

Sometimes it's all about the golf, especially on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Yet, when you add in a luxurious spa, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the Tennessee River, you've got a getaway to remember at Alabama's newest Four Diamond Hotel, the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa.

The Escape Golf Package includes the following:

- Luxury accommodations for one night
- Two rounds of golf at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at the Shoals
- Rates from $195 - $250 per night*

Indulge in four remarkable Muscle Shoals, Alabama restaurants including the acclaimed 360 Grille & Lounge, featuring eclectic cuisine in Alabama's only revolving restaurant atop the Renaissance Tower. Bronzeback Café boasts comfort cuisine, while Swampers Bar & Grill honors the rich musical heritage of Alabama by hosting live music celebrating local sounds.

This world-class hotel also houses a state-of-the-art, European spa. The Spa at the Shoals offers luxurious treatments to rejuvenate the body and invigorate the mind. With an array of spa options, from body scrubs and facials to massages and steam rooms, this refreshing Florence, Alabama spa is a step above the rest.**

Wonderful for a weekend away or a week-long golf getaway, the Marriott Shoals Hotel offers every desired amenity, creating the pinnacle of peace of mind.

About Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa:
Inspired by Southern hospitality, discover a Florence, Alabama hotel where conservative elegance and the beauty of nature combine for a memorable experience. Set in the heart of the Tennessee River Valley, this Alabama golf resort invites you to experience a new level of refinement and charm among hotels in Florence, Alabama. Plush guest rooms feature comfortable luxury and modern conveniences, as well as private balconies providing stunning views of the river. Just minutes away are two championship Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail courses that offer a challenge, yet attract players of all skill levels, from amateur to pro. This Alabama spa resort allows you to refresh your body, mind, and spirit at the 6,000 square foot European spa, delivering the pinnacle of rejuvenation. Versatile meeting space, elegant banquet facilities, and a delicious selection of restaurants enhance the cultured ambiance found at the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa. For more information, or to make a reservation, call (800) 593-6450 or visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mslmc-marriott-shoals-hotel-and-spa/

*Packages are based on availability and start at $195. Be sure that the promotional code GOF appears in the Corporate/Promotional code box when making your online reservation, or call 1-800-228-9290 in the US and ask for promotional code GOF.

**Appointments are required for The Spa at the Shoals, call (256) 246- 3696 for appointments.

Schmidt-Curley Redesigned Siam Country Club (Pattaya, Thailand) to be Showcased During Honda LPGA Thailand

Storied Golf Course Raised to Championship Caliber by Scottsdale, Arizona-Based Design Duo

(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) – Schmidt-Curley Design – the full-service golf-course architecture, master-planning and construction-management firm – today announces its major redesign of Siam Country Club (Old Course) in Pattaya, Thailand, which will be showcased during the Honda LPGA Thailand, October 25-28.

Schmidt-Curley commenced the redesign in March 2006 and the course re-opened for member play in May 2007. Originally opened for play in 1971, designed by Mr. I. Izumi and founded by Dr. Thaworn Phornprapha, Siam C.C. is hemmed by lush, arching trees and features striking backdrops of pagodas (tiered towers) and giant statues of Buddha.

“The original routing remains intact, but the original layout was bulldozed and rebuilt from tee to green and edge to edge,” says Lee Schmidt.

The redesign involved construction of new greens and bunkers, installation of new turf, expansion of water hazards to bring them more into play and gain more water storage, removal of 20-30 percent of the course’s trees to allow for better air flow around greens and to reclaim playing corridors, and repaving of all cart paths.

“The original greens contained inadequate slope for purposes of drainage,” says Schmidt. “This often led to standing water on the surfaces, thereby limiting locations for pin placements. To alleviate this problem, 18 completely new greens were built using Novatek Ultra Dwarf Bermuda Grass.”

In addition to replacing the greens, the design team tiled every bunker and high-flashed sand on all bunker faces. All turf was replaced with the salt and brackish water tolerant Seashore Pasalum, a revolutionary strand typically used in tropical and subtropical climates in coastal areas.

“Working with mature trees in place was a real treat,” says Schmidt. “So often when building a new course it takes three to five years for its true character to shine through. At Siam we were essentially able to construct a brand new course that could be immediately appreciated by members and guests.”

Flagstick Golf Course Construction Management, Schmidt-Curley Design’s in-house construction arm, was an indispensable partner in the project. It handled all of the budgeting, staffing and scheduling for the redesign, thereby allowing Schmidt-Curley to focus on the more technical aspects of the work.

Siam C.C. is a par-72 that will play at 6,469 yards for the Honda LPGA Thailand. It is a four-day tournament with no cut and features a field comprised of the Top-50 on the money list plus 10 sponsor’s exemptions. Annika Sorenstam, Paula Creamer, Morgan Pressel, and Ai Miyazato are among those who have already committed to play in the $1,300,000 event. Hee Won Han is the defending champion.

About Schmidt-Curley Design, Inc.
Founded by partners Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley and based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Schmidt-Curley is a full-service, international golf-course architecture and master-planning firm with more than 100 layouts in 24 countries, including the U.S., Thailand, China, Vietnam, Mexico, Egypt, Sweden, and Korea. The tandem is responsible for crafting 10 of the 12 courses at storied Mission Hills Golf Resort in Shenzhen, China – the largest golf complex in the world.

Schmidt-Curley teamed with long-time partner Nick Faldo, as well as Ernie Els, Jose Maria Olazabal, David Duval, Annika Sorenstam, Vijay Singh, David Ledbetter and Jumbo Ozaki to create a golf experience unlike any other globally. High profile, award-winning projects from Schmidt-Curley include Bali Hai and Siena Golf Clubs (Las Vegas), Amata Spring Golf Club (Chonburi, Thailand, host of the Royal Trophy), Terra Lago Golf Club (Indio, California, site of the Skins Game for four years), Twin Creeks Golf Club (Cedar Park, Texas), and Crosby National Golf Club (Rancho Santa Fe, California).

Schmidt-Curley has also worked extensively with golf’s biggest names – including Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, Fred Couples and Faldo on numerous high-profile projects. Producing demanding yet beautiful and enjoyable courses, Schmidt-Curley strives to create golf experiences that stir the senses and elevate golfers’ appreciations for the land and the game. By balancing classic golf course architecture with ever-changing contemporary technology, Schmidt-Curley places an emphasis on site-adaptive courses, memorable and enjoyable for all levels of play and always designed for cost-efficient maintenance and operations. For more information, visit www.schmidt-curley.com or call 480-483-1994.

Camp Creek, Shark’s Tooth Golf Clubs Selected as Members of ‘Preferred Golf Club’

Tom Fazio, Greg Norman Designs, WaterColor Inn & Resort Part of Exclusive Network Available to American Express Cardholders

(WATERSOUND, Fla.) – Camp Creek and Shark’s Tooth Golf Clubs -- award-winning Tom Fazio and Greg Norman designs located along Northwest Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast – have been selected as members of “Preferred Golf Club” via their association with the WaterColor Inn & Resort, part of the “Preferred Hotels and Resorts” collection.

St. Joe owned and operated Camp Creek and Shark’s Tooth are able to offer golfers exclusive, championship-level playing experiences that truly adhere to the “country club for a day” adage. Only members, their guests, and guests of WaterColor and WaterSound resort properties (including the WaterColor Inn) have access to both courses. Guests can reserve times a la carte or through golf packages offered by the WaterColor Inn, www.watercolorinn.com and WaterColor Vacations, www.watercolorvacations.com.

Available exclusively to American Express Cardmembers for an annual fee of $595, members can create their own legendary tour of the world’s greatest resort courses. Membership affords many rich benefits including one complimentary round of golf per year at each of its participating resorts - an exalted list that spans both sides of the Atlantic and in addition to Camp Creek and Shark’s Tooth includes: Ireland's K Club Golf and Spa Resort, The Lodge at Sea Island, The Broadmoor, Mauna Lani Resort, The Coeur d'Alene Resort, Ginn Reunion Resort, Sandy Lane Resort, the Grand Del Mar and more.

“We are honored to be a part of this prestigious network,” says Stephen Hilliard, Vice President of Resort and Club Operations. “Preferred Golf Club is an excellent brand extension for Camp Creek, Shark’s Tooth and the St. Joe Company, as the clubs and resorts included are many of the world’s best golf venues.”

Preferred Golf Club members enjoy the following valuable benefits:

- One complimentary round of golf annually at each of the Preferred Golf Club Resorts, based on a two-night minimum stay.
- Club Concierge service to arrange tee times and assist with hotel reservations.
- Special members-only events, including exclusive access to golf tournaments.
- Exclusive offers from travel and golf partners, including travel packages, spa treatments, car rental, golf equipment and other luxury items.
- Automatic enrollment in the I Prefer Global Guest Benefit Program, which offers the following perks at all hotels and resorts within Preferred's four brands, including Preferred Hotels® & Resorts, Preferred Boutique, Summit Hotels & Resorts and Sterling Hotels: room upgrade based on availability; priority early check-in and late check-out; complimentary Internet access (at most locations; restrictions apply); local hotel benefits that might include anything from complimentary valet parking to a specialty cocktail or discounted spa treatment; and exclusive offers promoted through the
- I Prefer newsletter and dedicated members-only website.

American Express Cardmembers can enroll online at www.preferredgolf.com as of September 6th. Upon joining, they will receive a membership card, a book of certificates, each of which can be redeemed for a complimentary round at one participating course, and a Preferred Golf Directory, listing all participating resorts. Currently the impressive list of Preferred Golf Resorts participating in the Club stands at 37 out of 45 members worldwide and continues to grow

For more information about Camp Creek Golf Club, visit www.stjoegolf.com or call 850.231.7600.

About Camp Creek

Since opening in 2001, Camp Creek has been consistently cited as one of Tom Fazio's most thought-provoking, aesthetically-stunning design credits. Featuring a unique “dunescape” appearance, the course was created as a private club for members who are owners of St. Joe selected communities and resort guests of St. Joe’s WaterColor and WaterSound Beach resorts. From the back green tees, the course plays to a championship caliber yardage of 7,159 and a formidable slope rating of 152. Camp Creek’s five-tee configuration, which also includes gold (senior) and red (women’s) tees, accommodates players of all skill and experience levels. Travel + Leisure Golf recently recognized Camp Creek as “Florida’s No. 1 Course of the New Millennium.” It has also been recognized for its environmental stewardship through designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary ! System (ACSS). Superintendent Larry Livingston was similarly distinguished as a certified Audubon Steward.

About Shark’s Tooth

Designed by Greg Norman and voted the second best new private course by Golf Digest upon opening in 2002, Shark’s Tooth Golf Club was recently purchased by The St. Joe Company to bolster its high-end, golf course holdings. The course stretches to 7,209 yards from the back tees and features five fairways that border scenic Lake Powell, two holes that play toward the water and numerous wooden cart path bridges that cross over streams and estuaries. Tucked among the oaks and pines along the shores of the historic lake, which has been designated an Outstanding Florida Waterway, Shark's Tooth is a challenging course that co-exists with its surroundings. Grass from the Greg Norman Turf Company was used on the fairways, approaches and rough. Shark’s Tooth is located just 10 miles from Camp Creek and the Origins Course at WaterSound, collectively creating one of west Florida’s great golf destin! ations. The course is a Silver Signature Sanctuary Course as accredited by the Audubon Signature Program.

About The Origins Course at WaterSound

The Origins Course at WaterSound’s mission is to make golf more fun, accessible and attractive to families, beginners and casual golfers. A six-hole regulation course that alternatively plays as a nine-hole executive course and a ten-hole par 3 layout, The Origins Course was conceived with the “short course” concept at its core. Designed by Love Golf Design, founded by PGA Tour player Davis Love III, the course is consistent with the Scottish origins of the game, in which six, nine and 12-hole courses were commonplace. The Origins Course appeals and caters to novices via its non-penal design and manageable distance of approximately 1,800 yards. Yet its regulation-length holes and traditionally wrought green complexes provide enough challenge and strategy to retain the interest of experienced golfers. Turfed with “Sealsle Supreme Paspalum,” which requires fewer chemicals for! weed and pest control, The Origins Course supports St. Joe’s commitment to environmental sensitivity and preservation.

About JOE

The St. Joe Company (NYSE: JOE), a publicly held company based in Jacksonville, is one of Florida’s largest real estate development companies. We are primarily engaged in real estate development and sales, with significant interests in timber. JOE’s mission is to create places that inspire people and make the region an even better place to live, work and play. We’re no ordinary JOE.

More information about JOE can be found at our website at www.joe.com .

© 2007 The St. Joe Company. “Camp Creek,” “JOE,” “St. Joe”, “WaterColor,” “Shark’s Tooth,” “WaterSound” and the “Taking Flight” design are service marks of The St. Joe Company.

Cayman Islands Golf Resort: Blue Tip

Exclusive to guests and residence owners of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, this Greg Norman designed 9-hole, 3,516 yard "Caribbean Monster" provides a challenging and enjoyable round to golfers of all skill levels. Water comes into play on eight of nine holes, with a dramatic island green par 3 finish. Blue Tip features tournament conditions and a Golf Caddy Concierge to accompany each group.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: Greg Norman
* Yardage: 3,516
* Par: 36
* Slope: 132
* Rating: 38.0

Canadian Golf Resort: The Rock Golf Club, Minett, Canada

The Rock Golf Club, designed by legendary golfer Nick Faldo, has been artfully sculpted on the shores of one of Muskoka's premier lakes, Lake Rosseau. Utilizing the site's dynamic topography, the 6,545 yard course is carved tightly with narrow tree-lined fairways and sloping greens that wind through rock outcroppings, hardwood trees and rolling hills. Nick Faldo's in-depth knowledge of the game's finer subtleties and intricacies, combined with his considerable worldwide experience, is reflected in his talent as a course designer.

The Rock boasts natural hazards and challenges that reward accuracy, a tribute to Faldo's playing abilities as "the shot-maker." The course has been crafted in such a way so as to inspire golfers of all levels with an emphasis on strategy and playability.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: Nick Faldo
* Yardage: 6,545
* Par: 70
* Slope: 144
* Rating: 72.4

Golf Vacations: What You Need To Know

by: Matthew Hick



Vacation time is here! Pack up your clothes. Pack up your shoes. Pack up your toothbrush, toothpaste, and some sunscreen. And, of course, don't forget to pack the most important thing of all: your golf bag. Welcome to Golf Vacation 101. Let's take a look at some things to consider when planning the golf vacation of your dreams.

Well, we may as well get the bad stuff taken out of the way first and confront question number one:

How much vacation money do you have saved?

I know, I know... you probably don't have a fortune saved up for your golf vacation. After all, you just finished paying for a new Hybrid club and then there were those Christmas presents you had to buy a few months ago...

But whatever the case - no matter how much money you do or don't have - you can find a golf vacation that's just right for you. If you do happen to have a lot to spend to get away, you would be wise to go where the warm weather beckons golfers from all across the world. How about the southern United States? California? The Virgin Islands? Hawaii? Why, you could see a volcano or three while you tee up on the green.

But if you don't have the funds available for extravagant vacations such as these, (remember, not only do you have to pay golf fees, but you must also cover hotel stay, transportation, food, and other activities) you could take a much cheaper vacation. If you live on the East Coast of the United States, you could drive yourself and a few friends to a golf club a few hours south to play for a few days. Granted, it may not be a resort-like atmosphere, but if you are there strictly for the golf, that shouldn't even matter!

Are you bringing non-golfers on your trip?

If you are bringing along girlfriends, boyfriends, friends, or family members who don't want to golf but who do want to get away with you, you should try to chose a golf place that is close to other attractions such as shopping malls, amusement parks, movie theatres, or beaches. Many golf resorts even offer packages that allow you and your guests to 'stay and play'. Most of these resorts offer packages to save you money on room and greens fees. Look at all of the ins and outs and read between the fine lines of the packages you are looking into before making a final decision about which place to choose. This way, you won't be the only one who gets to have fun on the vacation. And, while your family stays entertained, this makes more and more time for you to tee up!

Is your potential vacation course challenging enough for you?

If you are concerned about having an overly difficult or not-difficult-enough course to play on while you vacation, realize that most golf resorts offer a variety of courses available to choose from. After all, these places realize that all golfers have different abilities, likes, and dislikes. If you are very concerned though, it never hurts to speak with people from the resort by phone, or even talk to past guests that you know stayed in the same place. A little opinion can go a far way!

Finally, make sure that you enjoy your vacation and your golf. Typically vacation time comes around only once a year for most people. So make the most of your fun in the sun!

Challenge:

Perhaps the most basic consideration when choosing destinations and courses is the difficulty level of the courses you're considering. Generally speaking, many fine golf destinations have a variety of courses available, which will allow golfers of various abilities to enjoy themselves, so this factor may impact more which courses you choose rather than which destination you decide upon.

Weather, Seasons, and Related Concerns:

On the flip side, if you or your group eats, sleeps and plays golf while traveling, assuming the handicap and letter of introduction requirements do not pose a problem, traveling to the U.K. during the summer months can be a golfer's dream, since the sun in that part of the world does not set until as late as 10 or 11 p.m. and rises again by 4 or 5 a.m. This allows for 36 holes a day, with daylight to spare for other activities.

Off Season?

Many golf travelers like to save money by traveling off-season. This is a great idea, provided they've thought about the drawbacks as they pertain to them. Some golfers don't mind playing in the rain, heat, or the wind, and their or their companions' age or health is not a factor. For example, prices are down sharply in Florida and Palm Springs during the summer months - for those who can stand the heat (and in the case of Florida, the humidity).

Other Activities:

What else is there besides golf? And does it matter for your purposes? As mentioned above, weather can cause you to reconsider your plans to play, and even the hardiest players are occasionally faced with course closings due to weather. If this happens, you may be stuck with very little to do. Or, you may be traveling with a family, spouse, or others who do not play, in which case you will need to be sure there's plenty for everyone to do.

How Many Courses Do You Need?

Another factor worth considering is the amount of time you have to play, and how many courses you have the time and desire to play. For a weekend getaway, you might consider a destination with only one or a few courses - a destination that otherwise would prove unsuitable for a weeklong excursion. Bald Head Island, North Carolina, for example, is a wonderful private island destination where the only mode of transportation is golf carts. It's a fine, quiet place to relax for adults or families, with terrific beaches, a couple of restaurants, and nice accommodations consisting mainly of rental houses and a couple of bed and breakfasts. The island has only one golf course (albeit an excellent one), although you can take the ferry to the mainland (where you will have parked your car) to take advantage of the hundreds of courses in nearby Myrtle Beach, SC and Brunswick, NC - all within about a half hour's drive.


About The Author

Matthew Hick has been designing profitable Niche Adsense Websites for over 5 years.

Golf Articles at http://eGolf-Today.com. Learn how to operate a Successful Adsense Website Network at http://eWebCreator.com

Don't go on a Lousy Golf School Vacation - Here's How to Choose Correctly

by: Joe Rogers, Jr.



I love golf! Don't you? I'm not very good at it but I will play as often as I can and I play every chance I get. The thing is I live in Chicago. So playing year round is not always possible -- at least not in warm weather unless I go South. But where do I go? There are so many great golf courses and life so short.

I decided to write this article because in my passion, I have found 4 very important questions to ask that will insure you will find thd the perfect golf vacation. Be careful. I have made some mistakes in the past because I did not do my homework in advance.

Golf Schools come wrapped in shiny packages with fancy trimmings. Be careful not to go for the first golf vacation you hear about. Do some reaearch and find the right golf package match for you, your habits, your style and your golf game.

So, how do you know which golf school vacation is right for you? It's simple. How much do you know about yourself? Be honest. This is your nickel.

1) What do you want to achieve?

2) How committed are you to your game?

3) Is your goal to have fun and drink with your friends without the wives around?

4) Or are you dedicated to improving your game for the coming season on this golf vacation?

Try asking yourself this: When you think of a golf vacation, which comes first for you - the golf or the vacation?

Some golf schools demand your entire focus. Other golf schools understand you need time to relax and scope out other activities. So know if you are looking more for the golf or the vacation.

If I'm planning a trip to a Maui golf school or going out to Las Vegas for golf instruction, I'm thinking there's a pretty good chance I'll be checking out the local sights and entertainment.

If you're like me, you're going to find a school that offers half-day instruction. Train your skills first thing in the morning, get a bite to eat (usually included in your tuition), then see how you feel. Hit the casinos, beach or the golf course in the afternoon.

Like I said, I stink at the game but I do have some experience. Are you a new golfer or could you hit the PGA Tour?

Beginners should check out golf schools that offer low student-instructor ratios. A 5:1 ratio or lower is the best for beginning golfers. Most likely you want a school that limits class size.

Experienced golfers will need a school that offers on-course instruction. You might need your swing looked at in game like scenarios. Get your instruction on the course.

How do you like to learn? Your style might benefit from the attention offered by low student-instructor ratios. This may not be a necessity for an experienced golfer. This is totally up to your learning style preference.

How's your short game? I can drive for show but when it comes time to outt for dough. (Maybe I shouldn't have told you that) Do you have a nice low handicap but your golf game goes in the tank 90 yards from the pin?

You need to find a golf school that concentrates on training your short game and course management. If your golf swing is basically sound, pick a golf vacation school that focuses the majority of your instruction time by getting you out on the course.

The golf training market is very competitive. If you want the very best, find golf vacation schools that will focus on individual aspects of your golf game. Comparison shop. (Isn't this why the internet was invented?)

In the time it takes for me to get out of a sand trap, you can find a golf school that will help you shave a stroke or two off your already low handicap. Or in my case, keep me from embarrassing myself in front of my friends.

Some other real quick questions to ask at a golf vacation school: Is lodging included? Are meals included? Does the tuition include rounds of golf? You can find a whole batch of information about all the golf vacation schools at http://www.universalgolfinformation.com

Focus your honest answers to the 4 questions above. Whittle down your decision to three or four to fit the style of golf training where you will do your best. Then pick the golf vacation school that offers the best package. Remember -- it's your nickel.


About The Author

Joe Rogers, Jr. loves golf even though he stinks at playing. He has been very successful in business so that he now has time to devote to his folly. He has written many articles like this available at http://www.universalgolfinformation.com

Bahamas Golf Vacation: Enjoy uninterrupted hours of golfing

by: Suzane Gray



If you have worked hard, earned some time off and need a vacation to reenergize yourself then a Bahamas Golf Vacation is the best way to regain your sanity. Golf is a very popular game in Bahamas so they offer exotic vacation with excitement of golf. This great combination doubles your enjoyment as it relaxes both your mind and body. The beautiful islands offer vacations for every budget. Even those with little to spare can make their way to the beautiful land of golf and beaches by finding a Bahamas golf vacation.

Along with golf, Bahamas golf vacation also offers you wide variety of activities such as swimming with the dolphins, thrilling water sports, deep sea fishing and some of the best beaches in the world. You will get all luxuries and facilities that make a vacation complete and enjoyable. The Bahamas golf vacation package will take you to the islands considered one of the most beautiful in the Bahamas with high cliff, densely-forested foothills, deserted exotic sand beaches and green golf grounds. In addition to Bahamas golf vacation rentals, the Internet also offers many website deals in organizing vacations. Bahamas golf vacation often have last-minute vacation deals that offer spontaneous golf lovers a lower-price airline ticket so that they may not miss a chance to visit the land of golf and exotic pink and white beaches.

An even better vacation in the Bahamas option would be to select a cheap Bahamas golf vacation package. You can enjoy not only the affordable airfare with this package but also exciting golf along with the finest hotel accommodations and additional facilities. Unless you have had prior experience with a vacation in the Bahamas, the assistance from a travel agent or Bahamas golf Vacation organizer would help to get rid of many of the unknown burdens by booking everything yourself. They can also provide insight into some of the more popular attractions so that you may not miss a single moment to grab the view this beautiful island.

Plan your vacations to Bahamas with Bahamas golf vacation packages and enjoy your vacation to the fullest without putting an extra burden on your pocket. Now you don’t need to be hard pressed to beat the amenities found with a golf vacation in the Bahamas because Bahamas golf vacation packages offer you a wide range of facility to make your vacations memorable with golf. If you are planning to leave immediately or planning a vacation month in advance it is always a good idea to purchase golf vacation package on-season so that your vacation may not spoil because of bad climate. The Bahamas is no longer a vacation destination only for the well-to-do now it’s in the reach of every person who wants the full utilization of their hard earned money and precious time. Thanks to Bahamas golf vacation operators who provide cheap deals to suit any budget.

A vacation in Bahamas could be just the thing to ease your hectic life. So take a break….. Enjoy a golf vacation in Bahamas: A tropical paradise, and ease your hectic life.



About The Author

Suzane Gray has been offering Bahama travel and vacation packages advice for quite some time.To find bahamas golf vacation, grand bahamas island,cheap bahamas vacation package that best suits your needs, visit http://www.gobahama.com

Canadian Rockies Golf Vacation

by: K. Gordon Schultz



A Canadian Rockies golf vacation could very well be the most memorable holiday you’ll ever take! The Canadian Rockies truly are one of the top natural wonders of the world, internationally renowned for the stunning scenery, the sparklingly clean air, and the quiet of unspoiled wilderness. This is as close as it gets to paradise on earth.

Snow-gilded mountain peaks, gem-like lakes, lush green river valleys and wide blue western skies are almost scenery clichés, but on your Canadian Rockies golf vacation this is reality. Golfers from around the world come to just stand and stare at one of nature’s crowning achievements. The fact that you’ll be playing golf in such a fabulous setting is just the icing on the cake. Of course, the numerous world-class golf courses in the area take full advantage of their gorgeous settings.

Verdant fairways weave themselves around glacier-fed streams and towering stands of evergreens, and often the greens themselves are back-dropped by achingly beautiful vistas. If there is a heaven, surely it must look like this! In such circumstances, it can be very difficult to concentrate on your golf game.

There are a wide variety of golf courses to choose from, all of them fabulous in their own unique way. Stanley Thompson, Canada’s master golf architect, designed the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course in 1928. He sensitively incorporated the natural scenic splendour into his design. The course winds along beside the pristine wilderness of the Bow River overlooked by the snow-capped peaks of Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle. This amazing course will both challenge and delight you.

SCOREGolf Magazine rates the Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club as the #1 Best Golf Resort in Canada with good reason. Designed in the 1920’s by Stanley Thompson, few golf courses in the world can match the rugged majesty of this national treasure. The design features wide fairways carved through thick forest, dramatic bunkering and holes aligned with distant mountain vistas. It presents a cunning blend of beautiful landscapes and challenging terrain.

Of course, a Canadian Rockies golf vacation would be incomplete without luxurious accommodations, fine dining, unique shopping experiences and pampering spas. Fortunately, resorts like Banff and Jasper in the Canadian Rockies have been offering these amenities for well over a century, all in a unique manner. Hedonistic luxury in the heart of spectacular unspoiled wilderness is now a Canadian Rockies tradition.

K. Gordon Schultz
President
http://www.GolfCanadasWest.com

Copyright 2007 – Golf Canada’s West. This article can be reproduced in its entirety, if the author credit and website address is retained.




About The Author

K. Gordon Schultz is president of Canmore Golf & Curling Club and the founder of Golf Canada's West – Customized Golf Vacations. His company offers customized golf vacations packages to Alberta and British Columbia being the Western Canada's leading golf vacation specialist. Toll free 877 323 3633, or visit http://www.GolfCanadasWest.com

Destination Comes Alive as Autumn in the Pocono Mountains Provides Great Golf, Breathtaking Scenery

The Pocono Mountains - home to hundreds of holes of golf in the lush mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania - offer a wide array of stay-and-play packages and diverse playing options set against a brilliant autumn palette. Now more than ever, it's time for the Pocono Mountains.

The Pocono Mountains: Discover Golf's Great Destination Secret, offer visitors an opportunity to relax and reconnect in the authentic, forested beauty - alive with vibrant colors of reds, yellows and oranges. In mid-September, the destination provides a 24-hour fall foliage hotline (570-421-5565) to provide visitors nonstop information of the four-county region.

"While the Pocono Mountains resorts and golf courses are popular attractions year-round, the area takes on another life during the fall," says Robert Uguccioni, Executive Director of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. "On the courses, the tree-lined fairways are stunning. Off the course, guests are treated to splendid scenery around every corner."

Not only are golfers treated to ideal weather and breathtaking scenery throughout the fall, but many Pocono Mountain resorts also offer midweek packages that provide added value to enhance the experience. By planning a weekday visit to the Pocono Mountains, golfers can avoid the usual weekend traffic while relaxing and unwinding in all of nature's glory. For a comprehensive list of courses and midweek packages, visit www.poconosgolf.com.

Long known for its many championship golf courses, the Pocono Mountains are home to great designs by renowned architects such as Donald Ross, Jack Nicklaus and A.W. Tillinghast. Whether it's a stern test to challenge the top players or a family friendly and affordable layout, the Pocono Mountains offer something for every golfer.

In addition to myriad golf options, the Pocono Mountains are blessed with numerous lakes and rivers, miles of marked and unmarked trails for hiking and biking, fine dining, shopping and historical site seeing. And new to the area this season will be gaming as Mount Airy Casino Resort prepares to introduce slot machines when this brand new facility opens in October.

If it's an overnight stay, a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, people are increasingly discovering the convenience and proximity of the Pocono Mountains golf properties and value-laden golf packages available via the destination Web site (www.800poconos.com).

For more information on the area, visit www.800poconos.com or call 800-POCONOS (800-762-6667).

About the "Pocono Mountains: Discover Golf's Great Destination Secret"

The Pocono Mountains has long been known to avid travelers and mountain aficionados for its lush, relaxing family friendly ambiance and romantic setting, as well as its fall foliage, winter skiing, spring-summer outdoor recreation options and natural beauty. Numerous lakes, parks and other environmental wonderlands are found throughout the four-county Pocono Mountains region.

Discerning golfers are well aware that the Pocono Mountains are home to golf courses designed by renowned architects such as Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast. Pocono Mountains golf properties and value-laden golf packages are available on www.poconosgolf.com, which allows players to enjoy majestic mountain-view scenery, the area's natural splendor, year-round amenities and unequaled value and variety.

Attributes of the golf-and-resort properties and destination include:

Home to hundreds of golf holes at numerous clubs, many located close to one another:
• Two NASCAR races held annually each spring-summer
• Golden Era of Golf Architecture period designs strongly represented by legendary designers Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast
• Golf, lodging and resort accommodations at all price points, from luxury to value
• Hiking, biking, camping, spas, horseback riding, boating, fishing, hunting and many other activities
• Attractions, festivals and other special events
• Meeting and conference facilities
• Great food at a wide array of eating establishments and resort restaurants
• Bed & breakfasts, country inns and resorts
• Antique shops, outlet malls and other unique shopping venues

New Sierra Ski & Golf Resort Development Approved by Lassen County Public Officials

(PRWEB) October 7, 2007 -- Dyer Mountain Associates, LLC announced that the Lassen County Board of Supervisors has approved the development of a new 7,000 acre, four-season resort community in the Dyer Mountain area near Mt. Lassen. The Board's action was taken on September 25, 2007, and included certification of an environmental impact report and approval of a development agreement that grants Dyer Mountain Associates the right to develop the new community for 30 years. The Dyer Mountain development ultimately will include facilities for downhill and cross-country skiing, golf, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and water sports, among many other winter and summer activities.

Some 4,100 residential units and hotel rooms are planned to be built over the life of the development, with thousands of jobs created for the next several decades. Dyer Mountain is just over four hours from the San Francisco Bay Area by car, and less than two hours from the rapidly growing population centers of Sacramento, Chico and Reno-Tahoe.

Strong local support for the development was expressed in 2000, when an overwhelming majority of Lassen County voters approved an initiative to allow a mountain resort to be developed on Dyer Mountain. A detailed study of potential environmental impacts of the planned community was completed this year by the County and its environmental consultants. The study resulted in rigorous measures to mitigate environmental impacts and safeguard the exceptional quality of life and nature in Lassen County and in the surrounding region.

"The County's approval of the Dyer Mountain community is a special day for the people of Lassen County, and all people who enjoy the unique natural beauty of the Sierras," said Sara Duryea, a manager of Dyer Mountain Associates, the proponent of the development. Ms. Duryea further commented that "The Dyer Mountain plan contemplates extraordinary attention to environmental protection, the efficient use of resources and a healthy, long-term relationship between nature and people who enjoy nature."

Grant Sedgwick, who was recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of Dyer Mountain Associates, commented: "The approval of a major new ski resort happens very seldom anywhere in the Western United States. We expect great interest in the project among residential and commercial real estate builders, as well as hotel and concession operators. This is a unique opportunity to use what has been learned about recreational property development and the environment over the past century to responsibly meld human and natural elements."

Golf Vacations In Beautiful Prince Edward Island

Not only is Prince Edward Island's landscape a feast for the eyes but there is something for all golf enthusiasts, regardless of skill level. Canada's smallest province has gained the reputation of being the country's number one golf vacation spot, not just once, but twice! PEI boasts over 26 courses in total ranging from executive, intermediate and beginner skill levels. The Island has also played host in recent years to a number of professional golfers such as in the 1998 "Skins Game" with Fred Couples, Mark O'Meara, Mike Weir and John Daly. Mike Weir was once again on the Island for the Making the Connection Legends of Golf event in July 2007 where he and golf legend Vijay Singh played The Links at Crowbush Cove in beautiful Lakeside, PEI.

If it is an executive course you seek, there is one on every corner of the island. If you happen to be in the west give Mill River a whirl. As a par 72 course with 14 par 4 and above holes and greens fees at $45- $60, why waste another second? In the north Glasgow Hills is another par 72 designed by Les Furber and is classified as a 'World Class Signature Golf Course". If visiting central Prince Edward Island the Glen Afton Golf Club is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. This par 70 course offers the biggest bang for its buck, $26- $33 for a round - an absolute steal. When you finally get out to the eastern side of PEI be sure to pay the red sandstone championship Dundarave golf course a visit. After opening in July of 1999 it was quick to grab the attention of Golf Digest and SCORE golf magazine with both giving it top marks. These courses promise to give you the opportunity to use all of the clubs in your bag

If you love the game but are not ready to play with the pros, why not brush up on one of Prince Edward Island's many 9 hole golf courses. Not only will it do some good to brush up, these courses are a great way to include the whole family. If your kids have an interest, or someone looking to play a shorter game is along, visiting St. Felix in the West, Forest Hills in the North, Country View in central PEI or Eagles View in the East are all great ways to get out and enjoy the sights PEI has to offer.

If you happen to be feeling ambitious you could try your luck with a double header at the beautiful Brudenell River and adjoining Dundarave. Offering 36 holes this day of golf promises to be quite memorable.

The next time you think about planning a golf vacation, keep Prince Edward Island top of mind!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/golf-vacations-in-beautiful-pei-224715.html

About the Author:
PEI - Prince Edward Island is widely known as the historic birthplace of Canada. The Charlottetown conference held in 1864 was the first meeting of a series which ultimately led to the confederation of Canada in 1867. Come and pay us a visit at: http://www.gentleisland.com

Doral Golf Resort & Spa - Miami, Florida

Named "Best Resort Course in Florida" by Travel & Leisure Golf Magazine in 2006.

Discover the difference between everyday golf and legendary golf when you play at Doral Golf Resort & Spa. Five championship courses are meticulously carved from the Miami landscape, offering more than 90 sensational holes of golf to challenge, inspire and reward golfers at all levels--from novice to scratch.

The crown jewel of Doral Golf Resort & Spa is the Blue Monster Course, where the World Golf Championships-CA Championship is held each year, attracting many of the world's top professional golfers. Greg Norman designed the Great White Course at Doral Golf Resort & Spa in 2000, creating a challenging and distinctive layout that was recently refined in 2006.

The superlative facilities, unmatched expertise, and attention to the needs of every golfer combine to make a truly legendary experience at Doral Golf Resort & Spa. Reserve a tee time at one of the five championship courses at Doral Golf Resort & Spa.

Discover more about the full amenities of Doral Golf Resort & Spa

Shadow Ridge Golf Club

Marriott's Shadow Ridge Golf Club is set against the beautiful backdrop of the snow-capped Santa Rosa Mountains in Palm Desert, California. Located in the Coachella Valley, Shadow Ridge Golf Club enjoys over 350 days of sunshine and blue skies every year. This beautiful and peaceful valley is often referred to as the "golf capital of the world" because of its ideal playing conditions and abundance of courses.

Shadow Ridge Golf Club's designer is what makes it unique from all the rest. Nick Faldo is the winner of six major championships and the all-time points leader in Ryder Cup history. His vast international experience and passion for detail is clearly evident on every spectacular hole of Shadow Ridge Golf Club. Reserve a tee time at Shadow Ridge Golf Club.

A golf experience like this deserves more than one day of play. Consider a stay at the adjacent Marriott's Shadow Ridge, a favorite resort destination for those who enjoy luxurious accommodations and outstanding recreational choices. Discover more about all the amenities of Marriott's Shadow Ridge.

Autumn at Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort Provides Great Amenities, Activities Amidst Breathtaking Scenery

Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort - named a AAA Four Diamond property for seven consecutive years - offers a variety of stay-and-play packages set against a brilliant autumn palette. Rocky Gapoffers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the fall in the forested beauty of Western Maryland - alive with vibrant colors of reds, yellows and oranges.

"Fall is a special time at Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort as the leaves change from vibrant green to the many shades of autumn," says General Manager Tim Grambley. "Crisp mornings give way to perfect afternoons and brilliantly colored trees line the fairways on the golf course, while the hiking and biking trails offer unparalleled beauty."

Not only are visitors treated to ideal weather and breathtaking scenery throughout the fall, but Rocky Gap also offers midweek packages that provide added value to enhance the experience. By planning a weekday visit to Rocky Gap, golfers can avoid the usual weekend traffic while relaxing and unwinding in all of nature's glory. For a comprehensive list of packages, visit www.rockygapresort.com .

In addition to championship golf and miles of hiking/biking trails, Rocky Gap sits on the shores of tranquil Lake Habeeb and offers everything from fishing and canoeing to sporting clays. Those looking to enjoy time inside have fine dining at the Lakeside Restaurant - a Wine Spectator award-winning establishment - and the Garden Spa from which to choose.

Guests can soothe their mind, spirit and body with a plethora of treatments at the Garden Spa. The Ultimate Indulgence Massage - a popular choice among Rocky Gap guests - is customized to relieve tension and stress, while the King & Queen for a Day package includes a 50-minute couples massage, two European custom facials and two citrus manicures.

If it's an overnight stay, a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Rocky Gap offers something for everyone.

For more information on Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort, visit www.rockygapresort.com or call 800-724-0828.

About Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort

Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort is a 215-room resort located on 243-acre Lake Habeeb in the lush forested mountains of Western Maryland. Amenities include the Rocky Gap Garden Spa which features the renowned line of Eminence spa products, miles of marked hiking trails highlighting Mother Nature's glory, a 7,000-yard Jack Nicklaus Signature Design course with five sets of tee boxes to match the skill level of any golfer, and an on-property adventure outfitter for horseback riding, hiking and biking, whitewater rafting and corporate team building.

About Crestline Hotels & Resorts

Crestline Hotels & Resorts, Inc. is one of the nation's largest independent hospitality management companies. Founded in 2000, the Company presently manages 49 hotels, resorts and conference and convention centers with more than 11,200 rooms in 14 states and the District of Columbia. Crestline Hotels & Resorts manages properties independently and under such well regarded brands as Marriott, Hilton, Westin, Renaissance, Sheraton, Crowne Plaza and Wyndham. Additional information about the hotel management company is available at the company's web site: www.crestlinehotels.com.

Legendary PGA National Resort and Spa Swings into Winter with a Variety of Golf Packages

Palm Beach Gardens, FL - PGA National Resort and Spa, a premier golf resort destination in South Florida, today announced a variety of Winter Golf Packages for the Winter 2007/2008 golf season. These packages are part of a larger initiative to offer more value-laden golf packages to guests than any other golf resort in the U.S. With over 90 holes of championship golf, including the famed Champion course home to the PGA Tour's Honda Classic, PGA National Resort and Spa is able to create memorable golf moments for all resort guests regardless of skill level.

The 2007/2008 Winter Golf Packages include:

The Gold Golf Package
Rates from $230, October 1, 2007 - January 12, 2008 and $315 from January 13, 2008 - April 6, 2008
This package is the perfect golf experience for players of all skill levels. The Gold Golf Package includes deluxe accommodations with private balcony or terrace, breakfast each day of stay and one round of golf per person, per day. Guests can play on the Haig, Squire, General or Estate courses; there is a surcharge for play on the Champion course.*

The Champ Gold Golf Package
Rates from $305 October 1, 2007 - January 12, 2008 and $390 from January 13, 2008 - April 6, 2008.
The Champ Golf Package is designed to create a tournament experience for players of all skills. The package includes deluxe accommodations with private balcony or terrace, breakfast each day of stay and one round of golf per person, per day plus one round on the Champion course. Guests can play on the Haig, Squire, General or Estate courses with one (1) scheduled round on the Champion course; there is a surcharge for additional play on the Champion course.*

The Platinum Golf Package
Rates begin at $300 from October 1, 2007 - January 12, 2008 and $440 from January 13, 2008 - April 6, 2008.
The Platinum Golf Package offers 36 holes per day for the ultimate golf enthusiast.
The package includes two (2) rounds of golf per person, per night of stay, deluxe resort accommodations with private balcony or terrace and full American breakfast daily. Package rounds apply to the Haig, Squire, General or Estate courses; there is a surcharge for play on the Champion.*

The 'Stay and Play" Golf Package
Rates begin at $99 from October 1, 2007 - October 31, 2007; $119 from November 1, 2007 - December 21, 2007; $215 from December 22, 2007 - January 12, 2008; $315 from January 13, 2008 - April 6, 2008.
The "Stay and Play" Golf Package allows every golfer the opportunity to match their skills on 90 holes of Championship Golf. Developed for the golf enthusiast, this package offers "the basics" - recently renovated accommodations with private balcony or terrace and one round of golf per day on any of the resort's 4 master-designed courses, the Haig, Squire, General or Estate. Play can also be reserved on the legendary Champion course with a surcharge.*

The Champ "Stay and Play" Golf Package
Rates begin at $175 from October 1, 2007 - October 31, 2007; $195 from November 1, 2007 - December 21, 2007; $290 from December 22, 2007 - January 12, 2008; $390 from January 13, 2008 - April 6, 2008.
The Champ "Stay and Play" Golf Package allows golf enthusiasts of all levels to play where PGA National hosts the PGA Tour's The Honda Classic, first stop on the legendary Florida Swing each March. Thus creating the perfect opportunity to play some championship golf of your own and test your skills on the famed Champion course. Enjoy deluxe accommodations with private balcony or terrace and one round of golf on the Champ per person, per day.*

The Pampered Putter Golf Package
Rates begin at $355 from October 1, 2007 - January 12, 2008 and $450 from January 13, 2008 - April 6, 2008.
The Pampered Putter Golf Package allows players to "take on" one of the resort's golf courses, and then slip away to the Spa for a little personal pampering. The nightly package includes deluxe accommodations with private balcony or terrace, 9 holes of golf on the Haig, Squire, General or Estate course and 2 spa treatments per person, per day. Play can also be reserved on the legendary Champion course; a surcharge will apply. The spa services are available from a select menu of treatments.*

*All room rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Rates are exclusive of taxes, gratuity and resort fee. All package offers are subject to availability, not applicable to groups and not valid in conjunction with any other promotional offer. Advance tee times and spa reservations required. Golf packages include play on the Hair, General, Squire and Estate courses only unless otherwise noted. Surcharge applies for play on the Champ.

About PGA National Resort and Spa: Opened in 1981, PGA National Resort and Spa is a stunning South Floridavacation and meeting destination. The resort is in the midst of a $40 million facelift that will encompass enhancements to the public areas, meeting space and the outdoor pools. PGA National Resort and Spa offers 90 holes of championship golf, including the famed Champion Course, new home to the PGA Tour's Honda Classic and past host of the 1983 Ryder Cup, the1987 PGA Championship and a litany of other prized professional golf tournaments. Other distinguishing features include a 42,000 square foot European Spa with 56 treatments areas and the exclusive Waters of the World outdoor mineral pools, a world-class health and racquet club, 34,000 square feet of self-contained conference space and seven on-site restaurants and lounges. PGA National Resort is located at 400 Avenue of the Champions, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418. For more information call 800-633-9150 or visit www.pgaresort.com

Golf Holidays

Author: James Murray

If you have been working too hard for too long and just need to get away and play some golf, you will want to check out golf holidays package vacations from your travel agent. These travel arrangements are often referred to as "stay and play" plans because you stay at a certain hotel and receive rights to play at a certain golf course while you are there. When making these arrangements, make sure there are not special requirements that will make playing inconvenient or impossible for you. Some of these plans require you to limit your arrival dates and departure dates or have other unacceptable limits so read the fine print.

You can take golf holidays to all sorts of locations depending on your personality and desires. For instance, you can choose to golf in a course located near or in a major city, taking in museums or theatres when not golfing. Or you might choose to visit a golf course in an area of rugged natural beauty such as the mountains. While there, you might take a day to fish instead of golf. Whatever your needs, you can find golf holidays packages to meet your needs.

Are you going to take your own golf clubs with you when you travel on golf holidays? You probably would prefer to use them rather than the clubs that can be rented at the course to which you are travelling. If you choose to take them with you, you will need to think about the arrangements a bit. For instance, do you have a really high quality golf club bag which will protect those expensive golf clubs. If not, you'd better get one. You won't be able to carry your clubs on if you are flying, so you'll need a bag that can take airport luggage handling and still protect your clubs. So get a good one.

When picking a destination for golf holidays, pick the course you wish to play on first, and then find out about lodging at hotels, resorts, or stay and play package plans. Make sure the tee times that are set for you when choosing a stay and play package are going to work for you. People who are staying at a golf course's own resort generally get first serve when choosing tee times. If it's really important to you to get the tee time you desire, it may be worth it to you to stay at the resort instead of a less expensive hotel. Either way, you are sure to find refreshment and restoration when taking golf holidays.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/golf-holidays-223373.html

About the Author:
James Murray is a successful writer and online gambling expert providing valuable tips and advice for those interested in gambling and online gambling strategies. His numerous articles found on the Internet ,provide useful and factual gambling information and insight. Some of his websites are http://www.casinospokerrooms.com.

Forest of Arden Country Club - Arden Course

Forest of Arden Country Club is located on 10,000 acres of Warwickshire Parkland, with ancient woodland and natural lakes of the Packington Estate, in the Heart of England.

The Arden Course was designed by Donald Steele in 1970 and redesigned in 1992. The layout of the course is a true test of golf, designed to make golfers play a wide range of shots. Its variety of tee boxes, water hazards and trees neatly outline the fairways, offering an enjoyable golf experience.
Course Characteristics: Designer: Donald Steel, Yardage: 7,213, Par: 72.

Details: Impressive golf facilities and 2 world-class courses place the Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club at the top of the UK's golf destinations. Host to the Brabazon Trophy, May 2007.
Beyond the greens, this elegant country retreat holds even more pleasures: a blissful spa, tennis, a fitness centre, a pool, even a croquet lawn. At the end of each day, retreat to a well-appointed guest room, featuring luxury bedding and high-speed Internet. Be seated at the Broadwater Restaurant to savour fine international cuisine and wines; or stop by the Long Weekend Cafe Bar for casual fare throughout the day. For events large or small, our comprehensive meeting & conference facility offers 1,081 square metres of space and includes a 400-seat Marquee open from May to October. Set on 10,000 acres of parkland in the heart of the Midlands, this distinctive Warwickshire hotel is close to the motorway & rail networks, and is just 10 minutes from Birmingham Airport and the National Exhibition Centre (NEC).

The Rookery at Marco's Ultimate Golf Package

Naples, Florida. Details: Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort, Golf Club & Spa's Ultimate Golf Package.

Our Ultimate Golf Package includes:
Deluxe resort view guest room with balcony
Three days of unlimited golf
$100 gift certificate to our elegant Kurrents Restaurant
A Callaway®, "fitted" X-460 Titanium Driver

In addition, for those golfers looking for some extra tips on their game we offer the Utimate Golf Instruction Package which includes:
Deluxe resort view guest room with balcony
A three-day Faldo Golf School
$100 gift certificate to our elegant Kurrents Restaurant
A Callaway®, "fitted" X-460 Titanium Driver

Rates from $279 - $659
Click on the Marriott Ad to the right to book it today!

Booking: Be sure that the promotional code G4X appears in the Corporate/Promotional code box when making your online reservation, or call 1-800-438-4373 in the US and ask for promotional code G4X. For toll-free numbers outside the US please click here.

Terms & Conditions: Valid seven days a week through 9/30/07. Three-night minimum stay required. Kurrents Restaurant credit valid on food only. Fitted golf club will be drop shipped to guest's preferred address. Limited number of rooms are available for this promotion. Tax is additional. Offer does not apply to groups of 10 or more rooms. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotions. Blackout dates may apply. Advance reservations required. Other restrictions may apply. Rates are per room, per night and based on availability at the time of reservations.

Valid Until: 9/30/2007

Wildfire's Escape Golf Package

Details: Test your mettle! Challenge your game on one of Wildfire's two famous courses while enjoying the luxuries of JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa. Package includes a resort view room, breakfast for two, golf clinic session for two and 18 holes of golf for two at Wildfire Golf Club. Rates vary depending on dates of reservation.

Booking: Click on the Marriott Golf ad to the right of this article.

Terms & Conditions: A limited number of rooms are available for this promotion. Tax is additional. Offer does not apply to groups of 10 or more rooms. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Black out dates may apply. Advance reservations required. Other restrictions may apply. Rates are per room, per night and based on availability at the time of reservations

Valid Until: 12/31/2007

Course Details: Wildfire Golf Club is situated in the rugged Sonoran Desert of Northeast Phoenix, and features two picturesque 18-hole courses designed by two of golf's greatest legends--Arnold Palmer and Nick Faldo.

The Palmer Signature Course at Wildfire Golf Club offers scenic and expansive fairways allowing the ball to remain in play even on an errant shot. The Faldo Championship Course features generous fairways, large bent grass greens and tee boxes. Surrounding both courses are the majestic McDowell Mountains and century-old saguaro cacti, providing a spectacular setting for golfers. The two courses of Wildfire Golf Club are an integral part of the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, voted one of the Top 75 Resorts in North America by Conde Nast readers.

Royal St. Kitts Golf Escape Package

Click on the Marriott Golf ad to the right to explore packages at this luxury golf resort. Specials are valid until 12/31/2007!

Details: The Royal St. Kitts Golf Escape Package includes a luxury guest room, two rounds of golf per stay, a delicious breakfast buffet for two each morning and a fabulous welcome gift. Package rates begin at $307 per night and are based on double occupancy.

Booking: Please call 869-466-1200 to reserve your package today.

Terms & Conditions: This package cannot be combined with any other promotion or package and requires a four night minimum length of stay. Restrictions may apply and the package is based on availability.

More about Royal St. Kitts: In 2004, famed Canadian architect Thomas McBroom completed the much-anticipated renovation of Royal St. Kitts Golf Club that displays his signature attention to detail, strategic intrigue and stunning beauty. The hallmark of a McBroom course is a design that captures the unique character of the landscape so that each course possesses its own distinct personality, charm and playing experience.

McBroom’s design at Royal St. Kitts covers 125 acres of lush grass with 12 lakes on the course and a moderate number of sand bunkers. The wide fairways and large putting greens present a fair, yet challenging, golf experience.

This extraordinary layout boasts water hazards on 10 holes, 80 bunkers and a multitude of coconut palm trees along the Atlantic Ocean. The course plays as an 18-hole, par 71 course at 6,900 yards from the championship tees. Four sets of tee complexes allow golfers of all skill levels to enjoy this splendid layout.

Sunset, Social & Golf = Sunset Golf!

SAVANNAH, Ga., October 2, 2007 – Just in time to enjoy this cooler autumn weather, The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa has a special offer to share with you: Sunset Golf at The Club at Savannah Harbor.

The Club at Savannah Harbor announces a limited-time offer every Thursday in October. Join us after 4 p.m. for Sunset Golf for only $35! Tee off and play till dark, then join us for a cocktail in The Club Grille.

The Troon-managed course is home of the PGA Champions Tour Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf.

Have you played a championship course yet? Here’s your chance! Designed by Robert Cupp & Sam Snead and leading you through a gentle Southern landscape, The Club at Savannah Harbor provides the perfect backdrop to relax and unwind.

Call 201-2007 to schedule a tee time now.

Golf not your thing? Sip a martini on the deck and enjoy the sunset! (The Grille will be open until 8 pm Thursday evenings in October.)


Featured on the Travel Channel’s popular Great Hotels television series, the AAA Four Diamond, 403 room, 16 story Westin Savannah Harbor is part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 850 properties in more than 95 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood® Hotels is a fully integrated

owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, Sheraton®, Westin®, Four Points® by Sheraton, W®, Le Méridien® and the recently announced aloftSM and ELEMENTSM Hotels. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

Golf Holidays In Spain, Courses And Instruction

Golf holidays in Spain are popular year round in many areas. The Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca have favourable weather even in winter for golfing. For this reason, most of the resorts are located along the Mediterranean coast. New courses are being built all the time in these areas to keep up with the demand.

Golf Holidays in Spain, Courses and Instruction

You can find information on courses through a travel agent or online. There is information on course conditions, locations, maps and pictures of the courses. You will also find information on upcoming events and other news from the resort.

Many websites have reviews written by both amateur and professional golfers. Read some that were written by people who have stayed at the resort and played the courses. This will give you valuable information about the resort from the point of view of past guests.

Many golf resorts have an onsite golf school. Professional golfers offer instruction to guests of the resort. Lessons can be done in small groups or privately with the instructor. Small group lessons are less expensive. Some also have golf school for kids. Between lessons, practice your new skills on the practice range.

Most resorts have a golf shop located at the resort. These shops sell equipment and apparel. You can buy anything you forgot to pack at the shop. Some also rent clubs, bags and balls. This is a good option if you don’t want to carry everything with you from home. You can rent what you need at the resort and have less to pack.

A club house at the resort is a nice convenience for guests. This will give you a place to change and shower after your game. Some have a sauna and food service as well as facilities for changing and showering.

Consider the size of the course. Most have either a nine or eighteen hole golf course. Whether you are playing nine or eighteen holes, keep good etiquette in mind. Politeness is part of Spanish culture, so don’t be rude to other groups on the course. Consideration is especially important during the busier seasons.

A common complaint among golfers is slow play by other groups. There is a lot you can do to avoid this. Be ready when it’s your turn to play a shot. Stay just behind the game in front of you to avoid longer waits for the group behind. Play your shot and move on. Mark your card at the next tee. Courtesy to other groups goes a long way toward everyone having a great time.

Other Activities on Golf Holidays in Spain

Consider other activities offered at golf resorts. Entertainment can be found at both hotel resorts and golf property rentals. One thing you will probably want is a pool, especially if you are traveling in the summer. A hotel will have a community pool. A private rental can have either a private or community pool. A private rental will have other conveniences such as an oven and washing machine.

Other Entertainment at Resorts:

o Tennis o Swimming o Mini golf o Spa o Gym o Activities for kids o Day nursery for kids

Another consideration is how close the resort is to other amenities. You may want a resort that is close to shopping and restaurants. If you aren’t planning to rent a car, you will want some of these things in walking distance, or be near to public transportation. If you plan to take part in the night life, you’ll want something near to bars or clubs.


About The Author


Peter J. Mason often creates news on problems dealing with Spain and airport. His articles on Golf Holidays in Spain can be found on http://www.alicante-spain.com/spain-tips/golf_holidays.html and other websites.

Pei Golf Resorts Rank Among The World’s Best

It has been said that from the air, Prince Edward Island might appear to be one giant golf course. It is truly a golfer’s paradise, really. Our intimate Island may well be small, in fact the smallest province in Canada, but it is nothing if not big on hospitality and Prince Edward Island is often said to offer the best golf experiences in the country. In fact, it’s been voted the best golf experience not once, but two years in a row.

It could well be the rolling greens, or it could be the sand and water traps alternating with woodlots that give our courses that distinction. Or it could be the vistas that extend for miles, melting into the horizon. Or it may well be the fact that you can easily spend your entire vacation doing nothing but hitting the links – and still want to return again and again.

There are, after all, no fewer than 30 courses that extend from coast to coast on our cozy Gentle Island; you have the pleasure of experiencing a uniquely beautiful course every day. Or two in one day should you so desire. And Prince Edward Island golf courses are as varied as the designers behind them and as the golfers on them.

Our range of elite golf resorts includes the revered links at Crowbush Cove. Boasting 18 holes over 6,901 yards, featuring nine water holes and eight holes near the famous dunes on the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Crowbush Cove is famous among golfers the world over. The resort’s 5-star rating comes from Golf Digest and the course is listed among the “Sweet Sixteen” top courses worldwide.

For those who want to sit back and relax between rounds, Prince Edward Island itself has much to offer. This gentle paradise teems with as much (or as little!) activity as you desire. Not the least of which includes the indulgences of the ocean’s bounty including the catch of the day which could include Tuna or marlin or perhaps something else; lobster kept fresh year round; mussels or clams. All of it, of course, accompanied by a PEI potato.

After dinner, or after your round of call, enjoy the rejuvenation of a walk along the miles and miles of champagne-sand beaches. Or take a hike along one of our many nature trails winding across the countryside. You’re also welcome to bike across our green rolling hills. Kayak along our beautiful coast, lined with dunes and red cliffs. Go fishing for an 800-lb. blue-fin tuna.

There is truly something here for every outdoor enthusiast.

Shopping, arts, crafts, music festivals and some of the world’s best seafood dining are also must-experience attractions for any Prince Edward Island visitor.

And just as we have a wide spectrum of things to do on the Island, we offer a range of accommodations too. From campgrounds, to bed and breakfasts, to hotels and the finest five star resorts.

If you love golfing, or just spending time in a beautiful and rejuvenating haven, look no further than Prince Edward Island, The Gentle Island.


About The Author

Gentle Island
Prince Edward Island is Canada's smallest and greenest province. The Island is known for the vivid colours of its gently rolling landscapes and offers some of the best golf resorts in the world.http://www.gov.pe.ca/visitorsguide/index.php3?number=1014593

Open Waters and Lush Fairways; Just What the Doctor Prescribed

As summer comes to an end, many vacationers and “snowbirds” are planning their retreats down to Florida. From Pensacola down to Key West, Florida’s coastlines offer breathtaking ocean scenes and some of the nations finest golf resorts.

Many travelers today are looking to couple luxurious amenities with variety for their vacation plans. Florida offers activities that everyone can enjoy. As a result, a Florida Yacht Charter vacation is one of the most popular ways to travel the peninsula and make stops along the way.

The experience of staying aboard a Luxury Yacht Charter is comparable to a stay at the Ritz Carlton on Water. With a crewed motor yacht, a captain and crew are there to cater to their guests’ every whim. Before each charter a full itinerary is created to include all of the activities that a family or couple request for their personal vacation. Whether the guest is looking to fish, Jet Ski, golf or swim, a luxury yacht charter will have it covered.

For this upcoming winter season Golfing destinations will be showcased as a major highlight for charterers. With first class marinas located along the Florida Gulf and Atlantic Coasts, arranging a car service from the marina to the country club is no problem at all. Florida has quite a few innovative and prestigious golfing destinations that will challenge your skills and have views that will take your breath away. Most golfers won’t even have to leave early to warm up at the driving range because some of today’s luxury vessels have a personal driving range located on the top deck. Here are three fantastic golfing locations with exceptional designs and splendor that are unsurpassed.

The Breakers Palm Beach is one of Florida’s finest resorts. This paradise has two championship golf courses that challenge both pros and vacationers. The courses were meticulously designed for players of any caliber. The Ocean Course was Florida’s very first 18-hole golf course. The course was recently redesigned to preserve its traditional character but with less than 6,500 yards, shot precision is crucial.

If your looking for a designer course the Breakers Rees Jones® Course is located only a few miles away. This course was recently reconstructed and named to be one of the premier golf experiences in the southeast U.S., reflecting the unparalleled new-classic style of renowned golf course architect Rees Jones.

One of Florida’s most recently designed golf destinations is located in Port St. Lucie. Another water front fairway retreat is about to begin construction and will boast a challenging Jack Nicklaus Signature Designed Golf Course. Santa Lucia River Club will include a resort, condominiums, villas, spa, country club and a 67-slip deep-water marina with Ocean Access from the St. Lucie River. This exclusive locale will accommodate the complete mariner and country club lifestyle for discerning travelers and residents.

If the Keys are more appealing, then cruise down to Key Largo and try your luck at the Card Sound Golf Club. Golf Link.com’s viewers gave the Card Sound Golf Club a five star rating. This par 71 course located moments from the flats of the Keys, features 6,553 yards of golf and the course has an overall rating of 71.3 and has a slope rating of 127 on Bermuda grass. This magnificent oasis opened in 1976 and was designed by Bruce Devlin/Robert von Hagge.

No matter what your prescription may be, a luxury vacation with Open Ocean waters and emerald green fairways will remedy any soul. For more information about a Florida Yacht Charter please visit http://www.eyachtcharter.com to learn about what other gems that Florida has to offer.


About The Author

Shannon De fries
eYachtCharter.com is a full service luxury yacht charter firm with travel and yachting news, resources and a comprehensive directory of sail and motor yachts in exotic destinations worldwide.

Play the Game of your Life in Waterville Golf Club, An Irish Luxury Every Golfer should Experience

Earning a well deserved 92nd rank in the 2005 edition of Gold Digests top 100 golf courses outside of the United States of America, the Waterville Golf Club represents clearly what golf links should be. Its not only a golf course, it’s a mystical retreat where one can rediscover the passion for golf and play the game with pure enjoyment, plus having the beauty of nature surround you in each and every hole.

Rated as one of Irelands longest links courses, the Waterville Golf Club has a total of 7,311 yards of pure golf heaven. You will find many scenic views as you play the game allowing you to have peace of mind and a deep appreciation for its design and culture. Located in Ireland's famous and amazingly beautiful Ring of Kerry, the Waterville Golf Club is surrounded by hills sprinkled with cottages and the Atlantic ocean and the Ballinskelligs Bay in its sides.

Playing golf at the Waterville Golf Club would expose you to strong gusts of winds that can provide a very challenging game. The course also is a combination native grasses, sand dune gores, sod faced bunkers, firm fairways, and fine putting surfaces that is made even more difficult by unpredictable and constantly changing weather. A link course that is already a hundred years old, the Waterville Golf Club is in the top 5 golf courses in Ireland and is also in the top 20 golf link courses all over the world.

But aside from its world class course, Waterville Golf Club also offers a lot of amenities and services that could make every golfer feel like royalty.

There you will find the elegant Waterville Golf Club clubhouse filled with everything a golfer would ever need. Showcasing a collection of impressive classic golf memorabilia and golf photographs and arts that makes up the ambience and the aura that is unmistakably a golfer's paradise. There is also a restaurant that offers great Irish dishes and fresh seafoods that can captivate even the most discriminating and picky eater. There is also a bar that offers the best pints in all of Kerry.

Adjacent to the clubhouse is a pro-shop where you can find every golfing equipment that you may need. There is also a golf school nearby with golf pro's that can teach you the basics and the different secrets to playing golf.

Looking for accommodations? You don’t even have to go far. You can spend your entire golfing vacation right in Waterville Golf Club. The Waterville house is an 18th century manor rated 4-stars for its excellent service and features. Situated in a forty acre property beside the Atlantic, the Waterville house has 12 suite bedrooms, a steam room and sauna, health facilities with a gym and massage room, a billiard room and even a golf practicing area. There are also private rivers and lakes for those who want to have a little down time fishing for salmon and sea trout.

Ireland has always been known for its great golf courses, many pros flock to their ocean side golf links not only because of the great games they would be able to play, but also, the warm welcome they receive and the great services and accommodations they will get.


About The Author


John Ugoshowa. You are welcome to use this article on your

website or in your ezinesas long as you have a link back to http://www.quickreg

ister.net/partners/ For more information on Golf vacation see the Golf vacation section of Quickregister.net Free Search Engine Submission Service at:http://www.quickregister.net/partners/

Cork Golf Club: The Irish Augusta

Ireland's golf courses have been receiving many accolades in the past year and have even been regarded as one of the five best countries to golf in. Offering a variety of parkland and traditional link courses, you can pick blindly among the courses that dot the whole country and still get a great course to play in.

Many of these amazing golf courses have been the venue of international professional tournaments with its championship courses and great accommodations. The warm Irish welcome alone would make you feel right at home.

Its heritage in golf is unquestioned as a number of golf courses are "mature" dating back to the late 1800's. One of these is the Cork Golf Club in Little Island, Co. Cork. Established in 1888, the Cork Golf Club was redesigned in 1927 by the renowned golf course designer Dr. Alexander Mackenzie, who designed also other famous golf courses like the Augusta National, Royal Melbourne and the Cypress point to name a few.

Throughout the course you will see many mature trees and various patches of gorse growing and making the course look more natural. The estuary of the River Lee, Lough Mahon provides the scenic Background that stretches on almost the entire course. Cork's limestone quarry affects the course and provides a play that is similar links courses with its crisp heath like playing surface.

Like wine, the age of the Cork Golf Club has made it more palatable and more enticing to golfers. With finely manicured greens carpeting the par 72, 6,731 championship course, the Cork Golf Club course can offer the same if not better game play as any other premier golf course in Ireland and even the world.

But it's not only the golf course that makes the Cork Golf Club a success and a favorite. Its clubhouse and other facilities as well are world class and have been handed with accolades by many golf enthusiasts and experts.

In 2004 alone, the prestigious All Ireland Award for Clubhouse presentation was given to the Cork Golf Club. Its deluxe and top quality service restaurant has a full bar and top notch dining facilities with fantastic food as well. It is open seven days a week and offers a great way to end a day of playing golf. In the clubhouse you will also find their roomy and well-designed changing rooms that have fantastic facilities for both members and visitors. A bit of stretching, practice and warm up before the game? The Cork Golf Club also has practice facilities like a perfectly maintained and manicured putting green as well as a practice ground for your swings. There you will also have the chance to rent some clubs and, caddy and golf carts as well.

Then you can just go their Pro shop if you want to buy some souvenir shirts, caps, bags that have the clubs logo on it. You may also purchase any equipment you need to play your game. There you may also be able to get the chance to talk to the club pro for some pointers or enroll in some short classes to get some tips to improve your game.

Many people have grown a passion for golf. This has led them to grow the need to play challenging games to test themselves. Make a vacation out of that need, golf vacation spots in Ireland are abound and one of this is the Cork Golf Club.


About The Author


John Ugoshowa. You are welcome to use this article on your

website or in your ezinesas long as you have a link back to http://www.quickreg

ister.net/partners/ For more information on Golf vacation see the Golf vacation section of Quickregister.net Free Search Engine Submission Service at:http://www.quickregister.net/partners/

County Sligo Golf Club: The Jewel of the Northwest of Ireland

When a vacation is coming up, golfers eagerly anticipate the time where they can load their gear and race to the courses. But for some who have worked the daily grind, these precious time will be spent on something truly worthwhile that would be the stuff memories are truly made off. Some of them save up and go to Ireland.

Why Ireland?

Simple, they have got some of the best golf courses, whether it be links or parkland courses, that the world have ever seen. Many golfers have discussed the fabulous games they have played and this has made the popularity of Ireland with regards to their golf even grow so much more.

Situated 8 kilometers northwest of the town of Sligo, you will find a century old golf course that has tested many seasoned golfers and have continually to do so. Founded at Rosses Point, the County Sligo Golf Club started in 1894 as a nine-hole links course and was soon developed as a full 18-hole course a dozen years later. Today, this mature golf course has been the site for many prestigious events such as the West of Ireland Championship which calls the course its home. The club has also been chosen as the host for the Irish Close Championship, the Interprovincial Championships, and the Home International Championships, cementing its stature as a world class golf course.

One of five beautiful golf courses found in Sligo, the County Sligo Golf Club golf course is a natural beauty that is encompassed by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and a range of mountains on the other. The fresh breeze from the ocean is a welcome accompaniment as you play along the course, but this same wind could get treacherous as strong gusts can greatly affect the game play. This has been a great challenge for many skilled and seasoned golfers and also a great teacher for the novice.

And since it’s a vacation, you're family can tag along as well. Sligo town offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for the whole family. The kids can be taken to the biggest birds of prey sanctuary in the whole of Ireland and watch these predators swoop down and soar in their homes. You can also take them to the Woodville farm where rare animal breeds and historic farms can be visited.

You may also take your family in a horse ride whether it is a run in the beaches or a slow ride through the scenic views of this side of Ireland. True family fun for adults and kids are assured and you get to enjoy nature's best.

But what would an Ireland vacation be if you don’t get a chance to savor a true Irish meal. A number of restaurants are just waiting to serve you the finest that this side of Ireland has to offer. Choose from a wide array of specialties and get a chance to be a witness to great Irish cuisines.

A golf vacation doesn’t have to mean that you need to leave your family behind. No vacation would be fun without them. Going to Sligo would be the best choice as you get to play golf in some of the greatest courses in the world and have the chance to do a host of activities as well with your family.


About The Author


John Ugoshowa. You are welcome to use this article on your

website or in your ezinesas long as you have a link back to http://www.quickreg

ister.net/partners/ For more information on Golf vacation see the Golf vacation section of Quickregister.net Free Search Engine Submission Service at:http://www.quickregister.net/partners/

Going Green On Two Wheels In Raleigh

With over sixty miles of greenways and trails, six scenic lakes, two nature preserves, twenty public golf courses, plenty of gardens and an art park, Raleigh, NC is one of the greenest cities around and the perfect place for an adventure weekend.

The most exciting part about spending an adventure weekend in Raleigh is the one-of-its-kind opportunity to hit the road on a rented Harley. Ray Price, world-famous drag racing champion, custom Harley Davidson rentals that include a huge choice of later models Harley Davidson motorcycles along with a Harley Davidson helmet, rain-suit and 24-hour on the road assistance. While you are there, go ahead and ogle at Ray Price’s Harley-Davidson drag racing museum, the only one of its kind in the world.

Now that you’ve got your wheels, its time to get moving and explore the outdoors that Raleigh is so famous for.

For a closer look at the natural beauty of this region, park your bike and descend the mountains down to the sea at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Science. The Prairie Ridge and the bird walk at the Museum’s 38-acre Ecostation for Wildlife and Learning offers you the ultimate in outdoor excursions.

If you’d like to combine your road adventure with some marine activity, ride on over to Fantasy Lake Scuba Park, one of the finest scuba facilities of the Southeast. The vista of stone cliffs rising out of the crystal-clear waters is sure to leave you spellbound. Take the plunge of a lifetime, as you dive from “Fantasy Lake Mountain, the highest point in Wake County underwater to 80 feet, the lowest point in Wake County.

Still have time for more? Ride or walk around Historic Yates Mill County Park, a peaceful haven that includes a 20-acre millpond, pond and wetlands boardwalks, several miles of hiking trails and an overlook deck.

Or you could choose to join one of the guided tours at Hobbit Garden and marvel at over 2,000 plants including rare dwarf ornamental plants.

With so many exciting possibilities, an adventure weekend in Raleigh, NC is without compare.


About The Author
Gabriel Adams

The author would like you to visit http://buyersadvantagegroup.net and http://buyersadvantagegroup.net/finding_a_condo_in_raleigh_nc.php

Popular Summer Vacation Destinations for Golfers is Kelowna

Many people each year will take a summer trip. Most of these trips involve a summer vacation with the family, or a romantic trip with your partner, or a trip with friends. No matter who you vacation with, selecting a summer vacation destination can be difficult. It is sometimes hard to find a destination that offers activities that everyone will enjoy. If you are an avid golfer, you may want to consider vacationing and playing golf in Kelowna which is in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia.

While the main focus of the trip to Kelowna is golf, there are many additional activities that can be found in Kelowna. These additional activities may be important when you are vacationing with your family. If they do not enjoy the sport of golf, you will find Kelowna has many other activities to explore.

Kelowna has many world class golf courses that cater to golfers where the scenery and weather are both out of this world. The Okanagan Valley has over 45 golf courses, and 12 just a short drive from Kelowna, so a summer vacation in Kelowna will please any golfer's appetite for the game of golf. While playing golf in Kelowna it does not matter what your handicap is, there will be a reasonably challenging course, from par threes to world class golf courses where even the most ardent and proficient golfers will challenge their skills.

When golfing in Kelowna The Pandosy Inn is a Kelowna Motel and is located right in the heart of Okanagan Mission Area. The Pandosy Inn is one of those hard to find gems that not everyone has a chance to experience. A family owned business that caters to your personal needs on a daily basis. Pandosy Inn's hospitality and the relaxed, "laid back" style vacation experience that will have you wanting to come back year after year. From the huge decks and balconies off your suite you will see a large pool and hottub area totally inside the motel structure of the Inn, not to mention the views of the mountains and lakes.

If you are interested in vacationing in Kelowna and playing golf, but you are on a budget, there are several ways that you can save money. You can search for online golf resort coupons for tourists. These packages can be found online through several different discount travel websites. Besides using the internet, your local travel agent may be able to obtain exclusive discounts for you.

If you want to spend hours or even days golfing then a Kelowna vacation may be just what you need. Whether you are vacationing alone, with your family, or with friends, you can all find activities and excitement in the Okanagan Valley.


About The Author


James Murray is a successful writer and online gambling expert providing valuable tips and advice for those interested in gambling and online gambling strategies. His numerous articles found on the Internet ,provide useful and factual gambling information and insight. Some of his websites are http://www.casinospokerrooms.com , http://www.bingosbingos.com , http://www.top-sportsbook.ca.

Myrtle Beach Golf Vacations and Hurricanes - How to Weather the Storm

Hurricane season in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina runs from June through November each year. The peak months for hurricane activity are August and September. If you are planning a Myrtle Beach golf vacation during these times of the year, you should prepare yourself before arriving at your golf destination. This article provides tips and advice on how to weather any storm the tropics might throw at you while enjoying your golf vacation.

NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, predicts that 2005 will be another above-average Atlantic hurricane season. The organization predicts 12 to15 tropical storms, 7 to 9 hurricanes and 3 to 5 major hurricanes. Vacationing golfers should not take these predictions lightly. We have already seen one of the busiest Julys in the history of hurricane tracking.

Golfers should not let these predictions deter them from taking a golf trip to the Myrtle Beach area during the summer and fall seasons. Summer golf deals along the Grand Strand are hotter than our southern summers. Also, fall in Myrtle Beach provides golfers with dropping accommodation rates to accompany falling temperatures and humidity.

If you are unlucky enough to be right in the middle of a golf vacation when a hurricane takes aim at the coast of the Carolinas, don't worry. Unlike an unexpected afternoon thunderstorm, hurricanes do not sneak up on the South Carolina coast. This gives vacationing golfers plenty of time to leave before the situation gets dangerous.

The best piece of advice we can offer if you plan on visiting the Grand Strand golf area during hurricane season is to keep an eye on the extended Myrtle Beach weather forecast. If a hurricane approaches during your trip, don't panic. As soon as it looks like you may need to abandon your golf vacation, begin following these steps.

" Watch the local weather station and follow their advice. " Check on earlier flights and arrive earlier at the airport. " Fill your car with a full tank of gas at first sign of hurricane. " Map out evacuation routes before your leave. " Pack water and food in case of traffic jams when driving. " Don't wait until the last minute to evacuate.

Most golf packages provide refunds or rain checks in the event of cancellations and evacuations due to hurricanes. Make sure to ask about this before booking your Myrtle Beach golf vacation. Even if you are not planning a Myrtle Beach golf trip during hurricane season, go ahead and ask your golf package provider about refunds and cancellations caused by bad weather. Whatever you do, don't take the threat of hurricanes lightly. Pay attention to local weather forecasts. Listen to local officials. Follow the steps above and giver yourself plenty of time to evacuate your golf vacation destination safely.

Copyright 2005 Evans Putman and http://www.perfectgolfvacations.com - All Rights Reserved. Reprints allowed with no changes, omissions, or additions. All links must be left live and in tact.


About The Author


Author Evans Putman is the Owner of http://www.PerfectGolfVacations.com your source for the best golf destination information. We deliver "Truth in Golf Travel". PerfectGolfVacations.com delivers discount golf packages,t local market information and word-of-mouth recommendations from golf destinations like Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Hawaii and more. Keep current with updates, news and specials by subscribing to our RSS feed.

Tips To Plan A Better Golf Vacation

Planning a golf vacation is always fun; however, far too often all that anticipated fun could turn out to be a big hassle if you do not know what to plan in advance and how to plan the aspects of your upcoming vacation.

One of the first aspects of your golf vacation that should be planned is the amount you plan to spend. Like any other type of vacation, a golf resort vacation can become very pricey very quickly. Therefore, it is important to take the time to find out in advance how much your vacation will cost. The good news is there are numerous ways to save on your trip. Look for discounted play and stay packages offered by many courses and hotels that can provide a price break on your room in addition to green fees. Just make sure that you know in advance if there are any special stipulations attached to these packages such as minimum number of nights, etc.

Another important aspect to planning a great golf trip is to consider the other people with whom you will be traveling. For example, if you’re going to be playing with a group of mixed skill level players, make sure you take this into consideration when planning where you will stay and play.

If you’re planning to travel with family members or even friends who do not golf, be sure to check out other local activities to ensure there are things for them to do while you’re golfing, otherwise your trip may end up being miserable for everyone involved. One of the great things about golf is that regardless of where you happen to be staying, whether it is the beach, the mountains or a metropolitan area, there is usually at least one if not more great golf courses around.

Regardless of where you opt to stay, take the time to do some research ahead of time. Check out which courses are available and whether those courses are appropriate for your skill level. This can help you to not only get an idea of the cost of your upcoming trip but also other aspects as well including activities available for non-golfers in your group and what you can expect from the local area.

Make sure you pack your golf equipment carefully. While soft golf travel bags are obviously less expensive, it is really best to opt for a hard side bag to ensure your equipment is protected from all of the many possibilities of travel. Be sure to clean out your golf bag and rid it of anything left over from other outings. Pack some new balls, sunscreen, tees, additional spikes, markers and repair tools in case you run into a problem. The extra expense you will pay for a hard side bag versus a soft bag will be more than made up by ensuring your clubs won’t be broken or rendered useless during travel. Remember that you will need to check your clubs as baggage at the airport, if you are flying.


About The Author


Joe Kenny writes for his beloved soccer forum http://footballtalk.org/. Visit the UK football forum today at http://footballtalk.org/forums/ and join in the discussions!

Why Choose a Charleston Golf Vacation?

Most golfers who visit the South Carolina coast for a golf vacation end up booking golf packages in Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head. More often than not, choosing Charleston, South Carolina for their golf vacation is the last thing on their minds.

Charleston, SC is known throughout the world for its rich history, gracious hospitality, world-class cuisine, first-class accommodations, fabulous festivals, beautiful beaches and so much more. It is not however, well known for golf.

While this is a negative for the golf community in Charleston, this is a plus for anyone who decides to choose a Charleston South Carolina golf vacation. Golf Digest even called this Lowcountry location a "Hidden Gem" in the golf world.

With that in mind, vacationers will find the golf courses less crowded than other South Carolina golf destinations like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island. Besides the smaller crowds on the golf courses, there are many things to keep you occupied when you are not on the links while on your Charleston, South Carolina golf vacation.

But let's focus on the important stuff - the golf. When you visit Charleston, you will not only see one of the oldest cities in the United States but you will also be enjoying golf where some folks believe golf began in the United States.

Pinehurst, North Carolina claims to be the "The Home of American Golf." However, many historians would disagree. With the founding of The South Carolina Golf Club in 1786, many golf historians designate Charleston, South Carolina as the birthplace of golf in the United States.

History aside, with Wild Dunes Resort to the north and Kiawah Island Resort to the south, this coastal city can hold its own against any great golf destination. Legendary golf course designers like Robert Trent Jones, Sr., Tom Fazio, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye have put their stamp on golf courses in Charleston, South Carolina.

Charleston golf courses have played host to many golf tournaments including the Ryder Cup, The Ginn Tribute Hosted by Annika Sorenstam, USGA National Championships and World Cup events. In the future, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island will host the 2007 Senior PGA Championship and the 2012 PGA Championship.

Now if PGA, LPGA and other professional golf organizations feel like Charleston golf is good enough for their tournaments, it is certainly good enough for our golf game.

Want another reason to book a Charleston, South Carolina golf vacation package? How about year-round weather that lends itself to year-round golf?

While October and November are peak months for the golf industry, you will the golf courses less crowded and the green fees a little lower during December and January. And if you can stand the heat and humidity, summer is a great time to find discount golf packages in Charleston, SC as well.

So the next time you are planning a golf vacation, whether it is with your family, business or golfing buddies, we suggest you take a second look at Charleston, South Carolina.

Copyright 2007 Evans Putman and http://www.perfectgolfvacations.com - All Rights Reserved. Reprints allowed with no changes, omissions, or additions. All links must be left live and in tact.


About The Author


Author Evans Putman is the Owner of http://www.PerfectGolfVacations.com your source for the best golf destination information. We deliver "Truth in Golf Travel". PerfectGolfVacations.com delivers discount golf packages,t local market information and word-of-mouth recommendations from golf destinations like Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Hawaii and more. Keep current with updates, news and specials by subscribing to our RSS feed.

Read Greens Like The Pros

Author: Randall Ulbricht

Putting is a combination of the mind, reading and execution. I have maintained my 12 handicap over the last twenty years simply by increasing my prowess on the green, while age has negatively impacted most of the other parts of my game. This article deals with the second aspect of the putting triad, reading greens.

A golf green is like a book, not a sentence. If you are on a strange course and didn't take a couple minutes on the practice green, it is like you are opening up a mystery novel at chapter 14 instead of the first page. That's fine if you want to learn the "plot" during the next few chapters/greens, but your score and countenance will reflect your early confusion.

Let us assume that you took a little time on the practice green before assaulting the course. Do not try to fix flaws in your putting technique during your few minutes practicing. Instead, determine two things:

1) The speed of the green (stimp)
2) How much the ball breaks at that green speed.

So instead of concentrating on draining putts, get a solid feel for the speed. Try various distances along with uphill, downhill and side hill. Remember how much your ball breaks on your regular course. The amount of break for the same grade on a different course is linear with the difference in speed.

Example: If you have to putt 20% softer on this different course, your ball will break 20% more for a given length of putt. Why? Gravity has that much more time to pull your ball downhill because you had to hit it slower. A ten-inch break on your home course will now break twelve inches.

Ok, we are on the course and you have hit the green with your approach shot. As you walk toward the green, take in the whole scene. Greens are built to shed water, not to hold it and have water pool every time the green is watered or when it rains. There is a scheme to remove water from all greens. Look over the whole green to see where to water will run off. This can be more than one place. Hint: On hilly or mountainous courses, 95% of the time water will flow away from the hill.

If there is a pond, stream, etc. near the green, the water run-off scheme will almost always be designed to allow water to eventually drain to it. Ever hear the phrase, "Breaks toward the water"?

Greens are also generally built to make us feel good, so most will have a slant toward the tee box in order to better hold approach shots. Beware of the slope of the green near greenside bunkers. There will normally be some slope away from the bunker for a distance.

Now you are on the green and "reading". I always walk all the way up the line, read from behind the hole, then walk down the other side of the line and read from behind the ball towards the hole. Your feet and balance during this trek will tell you more than any other thing. If I have any questions remaining, I have no problem trampling right up my line to get a better feel. Let us be honest. When is that last time a footprint deflected your ball?

Hopefully one or more of the other players in your group will have to putt before you. Caution: All putting strokes are different. Some players cut the ball, some hook, some bounce or backspin, some decelerate. But watching all these putts will help you. It doesn't matter if they are on your line or not. The most value you get will be watching what happens to their balls around the hole. Example: If someone putts well off your line and the ball slows quickly, his putt was uphill and yours will have to break toward him at the hole.

Other terrific clues to help you determine the slant of the green along your line are background structures and terrain. Look for houses, lakes, ocean, and horizon. All of these are true to the world.

Early in the day, you may still have dew on the greens for several holes, even after they were mowed. The marks left in the dew by previous putts will help to some extent. You will not be able to tell if these putts were blown by the hole in many cases, so just get the trend from the marks.

We need to address grain of the grass. My opinion of grain: Most announcers love to talk about it on TV because it is a nuance that most amateurs don't think about, care about or know much about. The announcers talk about it like newscasters hype hot stories. The problem is, the more attention you pay to grain, the less attention you pay to factors that actually mean something. When you begin to get helped by dealing with the grain, join the Hooters Tour.

Should you play the wind? Unless it is howling, wind is a very minor factor influencing your ball on the green. Put your hand down next to the green to prove to yourself how much the wind on your face gets knocked down all the way down to the ground. I think you will find the effect will always be less than one inch along a twenty-foot putt.

All of these factors are going to work on your subconscious and you will generally develop a "gut feel". As I talked about in a preceding article, you must not discount this feeling. You can read the green. Begin your focus immediately following your approach shot to the green. Use all the clues and believe in your skill. You CAN read greens!

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Randall Ulbricht provides online services and information using sites: Eye Mind Tricks and Family Tree Templates.

Portmarnock Golf Club: A Classic Course with a Classic Warm Welcome

This is one of Ireland's classic Golf Clubs founded in 1894, its recognition and testament to its fine quality golf course is founded by being the venue for the first ever Irish Open Amateur Championships done in 1896, barely two years after it was opened, then almost a century after, the Walker Cup was hosted by the Portmarnock Golf Club in 1991. One of the greatest honors the course has received was being ranked number 30 in 2005 by the famous Golf Digest in its annual top 100 courses outside the US.

The Portmarnock Golf Club started initially with only 9-holes, two years after, 9 more were added making it a complete 18 hole championship course. Eight decades after, another 9 holes were added making it a total of 27. Each of the 9 holes done in stages were an effort collaborated by the amateur members and professionals who joined their efforts to provide the club a golf course that was not only beautiful, but extremely challenging as well.

Many golfers, pros and amateurs, have acknowledged the fact that the Portmarnock is one of the justly dubbed great links in Ireland. The seaside breeze provides a cool refresher and it is also one of the natural enemies of every golfer. A gust of strong wind can easily sway a ball in flight. This course offers little blind curves and some classic bunkers. What you get is a course that will truly test your skills and define you as a golfer.

The course is situated 12 miles from the center of the city and is hugged on one side by the Howth peninsula coastline. While playing, a golfer is rewarded with stunning views from Ireland's Eye and Lambay Island. Taming the course is a delectable experience mixed with the peace and pensive ambience, the well manicured greens, the tended landscape and the winds that abruptly changes both in direction and strength constantly.

But aside from the golf course which make the club well known. The Portmarnock Golf Club offers a variety of amenities and facilities as well. Backed by a dedicated and smiling staff, the Portmarnock Golf Club provides high international standard service to its members and guests.

A golfer may head on to the clubhouse straight to the locker rooms after a round to get refreshed in its shower facilities. They can also go to the bar and restaurant where fine dining on authentic Irish fare can be had. Or they can just go for some drinks and talk about the day's events.

A well-stocked pro shop also offers a wide range of top quality golf equipment like clubs, balls and tees. You can also be able to purchase great Portmarnock Golf Club clothing encrusted with their name and logo. They have in store different colors and designs of hats, shirts, pull-overs, jumpers and other gift packs as souvenirs or gifts.

There is also practice facilities which includes a putting and chipping green just adjacent to the clubhouse. You will also be able to rent pull carts and if they are available, caddies would be able to assist you as you play.

When it comes to a golf vacation in Ireland, the name Portmarnock is not to be missed.


John Ugoshowa. http://www.quickregister.net/partners/ For more information on Golf vacation see the Golf vacation section of Quickregister.net Free Search Engine Submission Service at:http://www.quickreg

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Dooks Golf Club: One of Irelands Best Kept Secret

Ranked no 16 in the world as one of the best golf courses, no. 8 in the top 10 courses for welcome, no. 6 in the worlds 10 most difficult courses and no 1 in the world in the 10 best value courses, indeed, the Dooks Golf Club is one of Irelands best attractions and it has continued to draw in tourists to its vast and rolling greens.

Found along the Dingle bay with mountains bordering its three sides, the Dooks Golf Club offers a course that combines flat and wide greens on some holes and highly elevated greens on the others. Its length of 6500 yards is filled with blind shots and trees and contradictory flat and easily visible holes.

Established in 1889, the Dooks Golf Club was promoted by the Royal Horse Artillery to the nearby aristocratic golfers while being stationed and training in the area. It is now one of the oldest golf links in Ireland. Its location itself has provided many of its members and visitors a chance to experience true Irish traditional culture and the famed traditions. For every golfer that has been looking for a golf course that can offer a tranquil environment, the Dooks Golf Club epitomizes this concept.

Starting out as a nine hole course, it has evolved into an 18 hole course almost a century after in 1970 when its members decided to add some holes.

This golf club has never failed to leave a good impression in every golfer that has played a round in its course and has left a lasting mark with its habitat, amazing wildlife, and features of its lands. There you will see the vast number of flora that dots its courses and captures the imagination and appreciation of those that have walked its greens.

For those who love bird watching as much as they do golf, this is a nesting ground for many beautiful birds like the Skylark, Pennyroyal and the Whimbrel among a host of others.

Aside from its natural beauty, the Dooks Golf Club also offers modern state of the art amenities that are affixed with traditional designs that showcase the history of Dooks Golf Club and its evolution to a world class link golf course.

Its clubhouse alone has been the recipient of extensive remodeling in the past years but still is able to retain its rustic and friendly ambience and atmosphere. You can get superb Irish and other meals in their restaurant or have a relaxing drink at the end of the day in their bar.

Many golfers have neglected this course and have set their sights to the more popular golf courses in Waterville. But to those who have decided to slow down and check out Dooks, they have made one of the best decisions they could ever make.

Rarely would those golfers who have had a taste of Dooks have a bad thing to say about the course. Many of them have been returning since then and have regarded the place as one of the best golf vacation spots in Ireland.

Found in Glenbeigh, County Kerry, this Irish golf gem should always be on top of a golfer's vacation wish list. The next time you have the time to experience golf at its finest, check out Dooks Golf Club and play golf the way it should be played.


John Ugoshowa. You are welcome to use this article on your website or in your ezinesas long as you have a link back to http://www.quickregister.net/partners/ For more information on Golf vacation see the Golf vacation section of Quickregister.net Free Search Engine Submission Service at:http://www.quickregister.net/partners/

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By: John Ugoshowa

International Golf Resort Packages

Ever wanted to play at St. Andrew’s in Scotland, or overlooking a beach in Bermuda? How about the fantastic Mission Hills complex in Shenzhen, China? With 180 holes and 10 layouts designed by the best it would surely be a golf vacation to remember. Maybe you would like to take dad or mom on a nice golf vacation or take your kids to some exotic golf resort to get them fired up about the game.

As I'm sure you know, you can book just about every aspect of your trip online. Often I will use Travelocity to find good deals on flights to specific locations, but I also use Marriott quite a bit because they are associated with some really nice properties and can put an entire packaged deal together for you. International golf resort packages can also be pieced together by you, personally, and it may not be as hard as you think.

Typically, you would start with identifying some resorts, clubs or courses you would like to play. Check online for websites related to these golf resorts to see if you can book your tee times directly. Sometimes you can do this through email and other times you have to call. Before booking your tee times, however, you may want to book your room. If it is a golf resort you are staying at you obviously can book these at the same time. Finally, after you have most of your information put together, start looking at your flights.

So that you may get some ideas of where you may like to play, we’ve compiled this list of some of the most popular international golf resorts:

Four Seasons Resort, The Lodge at Koele

Lanai, Hawaii,

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Big Island, Hawaii,

Four Seasons Resort at Manele Bay

Lanai, Hawaii,

Dromoland Castle

County Clare, Ireland,

Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Plantation

Greensboro, Georgia,

Gleneagles

Auchterarder, Scotland,

Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Whistler, British Columbia,

Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort, Rose Hall

Montego Bay, Jamaica,

American Club

Kohler, Wisconsin,

The Homestead

Hot Springs, Virginia,

Westin Turnberry Resort

Ayrshire, Scotland,

The Greenbrier

White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia,

CordeValle, A Rosewood Resort

San Martin, California,

Wynn Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada,

Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort

Naples, Florida

Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

Maui, Hawaii,

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort

San Antonio, Texas,

Fairmont St Andrews (*formerly St Andrews Bay Golf Resort and Spa)

St Andrews, Scotland,

Four Seasons Resort at Wailea

Maui, Hawaii,

Mauna Lani Resort

Big Island, Hawaii,

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa

Kauai, Hawaii,

Pebble Beach Resorts

Pebble Beach, California,

Cabo del Sol Resorts

Los Cabos, Mexico,

Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes

Orlando, Florida,

K Club

County Kildare, Ireland,

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Scottsdale, Arizona,

One&Only Ocean Club

Paradise Island, Bahamas,

Four Seasons Resort

Nevis,

Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Kiawah Island, South Carolina,

Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort

Los Cabos, Mexico,

Melia Cabo Real Beach and Golf Resort

Los Cabos, Mexico,

One&Only Palmilla

Los Cabos, Mexico,

The Broadmoor

Colorado Springs, Colorado,

Four Seasons Resort at Troon North

Scottsdale, Arizona,

Four Seasons Resort Aviara

Carlsbad, California,

Bandon Dunes

Bandon, Oregon,

Casa del Mar Beach, Golf and Spa Resort

Los Cabos, Mexico,

Princeville Resort

Kauai, Hawaii,

Fairmont Kea Lani

Maui, Hawaii,

Coeur d'Alene Resort

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho,

Westin La Cantera Resort

San Antonio, Texas,

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Orlando, Florida,

Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa

St Andrews, Scotland,

Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel

Big Island, Hawaii,

Pinehurst Resort

Pinehurst, North Carolina,

Ritz-Carlton

Amelia Island, Florida,

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (*closed indefinitely due to structural damage from an earthquake, its golf course remains open)

Big Island, Hawaii,

Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa

Asheville, North Carolina,

LaPlaya Golf and Beach Resort

Naples, Florida,

Barton Creek Resort & Spa

Austin, Texas,

Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa

Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico,

Loews Ventana Canyon Resort

Tucson, Arizona,

Ritz-Carlton

Half Moon Bay, California,

Fairmont Banff Springs

Banff, Alberta,

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Jasper, Alberta,

Grand Wailea Resort, Hotel & Spa

Maui, Hawaii,

Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa

Tucson, Arizona,

The Breakers

Palm Beach, Florida,

Westin Kierland Resort & Spa

Scottsdale, Arizona,

Westin Bear Mountain Victoria Golf Resort & Spa

Victoria, Vanouver Island, British Columbia,

Adare Manor Hotel

County Limerick, Ireland,

Sea Pines Resort

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina,

The Boulders

Carefree, Arizona,

Daufuskie Island Resort & Breathe Spa

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina,

The Phoenician

Scottsdale, Arizona,

Inn at Bay Harbor

Bay Harbor, Michigan

Sea Island Resorts

Sea Island, Georgia,

Lodge at Ventana Canyon

Tucson, Arizona,

Waterville House

County Kerry, Ireland,

Fairmont Orchid

Big Island, Hawaii,

JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes

Orlando, Florida,

Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club

Kauai, Hawaii,

Naples Grande Resort & Club (*formerly the Registry Resort & Club)

Naples, Florida,

Hilton Waikoloa Village

Big Island, Hawaii,

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Destin, Florida,

Ritz-Carlton

Key Biscayne, Florida,

Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa

Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida,

Atlantis

Paradise Island, Bahamas,

Deerhurst Resort

Muskoka, Ontario,

Ritz-Carlton, Lake Las Vegas

Henderson, Nevada

Williamsburg Inn/Lodge and Conference Center

Williamsburg, Virginia,

JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa

Tucson, Arizona,

Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Dana Point, California,

The Sagamore

Lake George, New York,

Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort at Grande Dunes

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina,

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

Maui, Hawaii,

Pine Needles Lodge

Southern Pines, North Carolina,

Saddlebrook Resort

Wesley Chapel, Florida,

Renaissance Wailea Beach Resort

Maui, Hawaii,

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Farmington, Pennsylvania,

Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa

Phoenix, Arizona,

Fairmont Pierre Marques

Acapulco, Mexico,

Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa

Bonita Springs, Florida,

Casa de Campo

La Romana, Dominican Republic,

Mid Pines Inn

Southern Pines, North Carolina,

Ponte Vedra Inn & Club

Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida,

Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club

Palm Harbor, Florida,

La Quinta Resort & Club

La Quinta, California,

JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa

Oahu, Hawaii,

World Golf Village

St Augustine, Florida,

So there you have it. A brief review of how to set up an international golf resort package – whether you plan to design and book it yourself, or go through a travel agent or broker, you are sure to have a good time. Please feel free to comment on your experiences, if you’ve booked your own trip before!