A famous English writer, G.K. Chesterton, once said that Golf is an expansive way of playing marbles. Even though this claim was made in a disregarding tone, we can do nothing but agree. It is that exact simplicity and sense of joy that makes golf one of the most popular recreational sports in existence.
The fact you are relying on your mind rather than your strength and the only person you are actually competing against is yourself only turned this favorite pastime into an even bigger phenomenon.
If all these things sound appealing, you will be glad to know that the holiday season is upon us, and your next vacation is simply craving for some fun activity to become even more engaging. Let’s see how golfing can fill in this void.
Decide on Your Company
This consideration will have a great impact on just how much golfing you are going to get from your vacation. If you want to make the trip golf-centric, you should get in touch with other enthusiasts and plan the journey that will make going through famous golf courses its centerpiece.
Local clubs and golf instructors have a lot of experience with these things so make them one of your first stops. If you, on the other hand, are bringing your family along, put some time into creating a schedule that will allow you to enjoy your hobby while also spending time with your loved ones.
Take Into Account Budgetary Considerations
Golf courses can be broadly organized into six major groups ranging from Links courses to more professional Championship/Stadium courses, all of which feature different admission fees. Take into account other variations that depend on the course location and exclusivity and you will get costs that swing from $6 up to $11,150.
Be sure to make these costs a part of your budget. If you are still falling short, remember that less sought-out periods like Twilight play are traditionally more affordable, so they can shave a lot of these expenses off.
Look for a Suitable Lodging
You should aim for something that offers suitable comfort as well as easy access to a variety of different courses. So, start by choosing a broader location with a good golfing tradition. Let’s take for example California, which features approximately 600 different courses.
Well, if you choose this location, the next step should be to zero in on the apartment rentals in Charlotte or some other local center. From this point on, it’s all about prioritizing accommodation amenities and fitting them into your travel budget.
To Rent or Not to Rent, That is the Question
Some golfers are hell-bent on using their own equipment, so they prefer to bring their clubs on their journeys. If you are one of them, keep in mind that airlines consider this bulky equipment a dead weight, so they tend to put noticeable fees on this type of cargo.
So, renting the equipment on-site seems like a more convenient option, but they too can go up to $100 depending on the course. Be sure to thoroughly research these expenses well in advance and make them a part of your vacation budget.
Book Everything as Early as Possible
And you will have a long list of things you will need to manage. Courses, clubs, and accommodation are only some of them. You also need to take care of transportation, entertainment, food, and other necessary things. What will you get by moving them off the table as soon as you are done with this article?
Well, for a start you will avoid seasonal demand spikes and associated price bumps. Also, you will prevent a lot of queues on the wrong side, giving you more time to enjoy what this trip is all about – darn good fun.
Pack for the Occasion
Last but not least, you must remember that some golf courses feature strict dress codes, so be sure to check your preferred golfing locations and make room for course-appropriate pants, shirts, sweaters, socks, shoes, and similar items.
Keep in mind you will need at least a couple of spare pieces of each of these items, and you will get a very stacked packing list that will leave very little room for anything else. So, rely on your phone to perform the bulk of on-the-go workhorse duties and double-check the weather reports to ensure the clothes you bring will be of use.
So, these are the top six tips that will help you make your next golf vacation more streamlined, engaging, and fun. And, when all is said and done, that is what golf is all about.
With all the things you need to win the game right there in your hand and the ability to spend some good times in the open, this is something you need to find more time for. The upcoming vacation season does seem like a very good opportunity.
About the author: Mike Johnston is an experienced blogger and editor, coming from a diverse background in creative writing and digital media. He holds a deep passion for writing and considers it an art form that enables self-expression. When not typing away at the keyboard, Mike loves spending quality time with loved ones, getting lost in a great book, and exploring the great outdoors.