Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Five Reasons Myrtle Beach Golf Trips Are the Best

Myrtle Beach is widely regarded as one of the top destinations for golf trips in the United States – and there are many excellent reasons why that’s so. If you’re still deciding on a destination for your upcoming golf vacations, check out these five reasons that Myrtle Beach should be at the top of your list.

Golf Courses

Myrtle Beach is home to more than 100 golf courses, and more than 50 of them feature 4-star layouts. The Grand Strand is a golfer’s dream not just for the sheer number of courses you can play but for their quality. Seven of Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest Courses” are all located along the Grand Strand. How can a golfer go wrong?

Great Value

When Myrtle Beach first became popular for golf trips, it was known as the bargain basement of golf vacations. Back then, the courses fit the bargain basement description but in the intervening years, some of golf’s top course architects have stepped up to build and redesign the most popular courses. Value is still a primary feature in Myrtle Beach golf trips, though. The courses, clubs and resorts along the Grand Strand offer special packages and golf vacations tours that offer great value at very affordable prices.

Superb Weather

Myrtle Beach offers year-round spectacular golfing weather, with average temperatures in the 70s and more sunny days than most other parts of the country. There’s very seldom a bad day for golf – if there is such a thing – along Myrtle Beach.

Wonderful Food

No matter how much you’d like to spend all your time on the green, a golfer’s gotta eat, and Myrtle Beach offers some of the country’s best restaurants. Whether you want to grab a quick burger on the go (Ron Jon’s Beer and Burgers is your go-to place) or sit down to a gourmet meal in a world-class setting like New York Prime, Myrtle Beach has got you covered.

Location

It’s hard to find a more beautiful place than Myrtle Beach. From the stunning coastline and sandy beaches to the moss-draped trees of the inland swamps, Myrtle Beach golf trips surround you with mother nature’s beauty. If you’re among those who think the scenery is a great reason for a golf game, Myrtle Beach is the place you want to be.

If you’re in charge of planning golf trips for your group or are planning a golf vacation for yourself, check out the many golf vacations to Myrtle Beach offered by travel agents that specialize in golf travel. You won’t be sorry.



Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Travel Tips for Enjoyable UK Golf Vacations

Destinations for golf vacations in the United States include the Arizona golf region and Myrtle Beach. For those who prefer their golf vacations to be international, though, nothing beats a trip to take in the old world golf courses in Ireland and Scotland. Golf trips to the UK involve a lot of planning, and many travelers leave the big details to golf travel agents. There are, however, a number of things you should keep in mind to make your overseas golf trips more enjoyable.

Travel Insurance

Anyone planning an overseas vacation should invest in travel insurance and it’s especially important when you’ve had to prepay for advance bookings at hotels and major golf clubs and courses. Trip cancellation and interruption insurance will cover you for the amount of non-refundable prepaid expenses if something happens and you have to cancel all or part of your trip.

Clothing

The UK enjoys moderate temperatures year-round, but you should be prepared for cool weather and for rain no matter what time of year you travel. Be aware that many traditional golf clubs require a jacket and tie to enter the Club House and some may enforce appropriate dress on the golf course.

Documents

In addition to your passport, you should also carry your valid drivers’ license if you are planning to rent a vehicle. Additionally, customs agents may request proof that you intend to return to the U.S. Your return ticket should suffice.

Electricity

If you’re traveling with your cell phone, laptop, electric shaver or other electrical or electronics devices, invest in a voltage transformer and plug adaptor. Otherwise, you won’t be able to recharge your devices.

Golf Bookings

Many of the most popular golf courses, such as the Old Course, St. Andrews in Scotland, have tee times booked as much as a year in advance. If you want to play particular courses, be sure to have your golf travel agent check into the booking policy so that you can make the necessary arrangements and avoid disappointment.

Golf Carts

Inland golf courses may have motorized golf carts available, but they are a rarity and their availability is limited. If you require a golf cart, it’s advisable to call ahead and reserve one. Most of the links courses in Scotland and Ireland don’t generally permit the use of motorized golf carts, though some may make exceptions in special circumstances. Most courses have pull carts available for hire.

Golf Caddies

Caddies are generally independent contractors and few UK golf courses will guarantee the availability of a caddy. If you want a caddy, it’s always advisable to call ahead and put in a request. Be prepared to pay your caddy directly. The caddy master will tell you the cost when you call.

Handicaps

Many UK golf courses require that visiting players hold official handicaps. This is especially true at the best and most popular golf courses. Carry a handicap certificate with you to ensure access to the golf course.

Golf vacations to the UK provide lifelong memories. Being prepared for all eventualities will ensure that all of your memories are pleasant ones.