Golf Vacations - Travel Tips, Locations & Packages

Planning for golf vacations is a serious matter. There are many factors to consider, in addition to the usual travel research and planning required for an ordinary vacation. First there's the question of finding a suitable course, club or resort, and then there's the matter of whether or not they have a package.

The first decision that needs to be made is regarding the location. While almost every major city in the world has at least one or two championship courses, this is not the only criterion. For a vacation, it's important to consider one of many locations which are famed as regional golfing capitals, depending on the preference for vacation entertainment and other facilities.

Let's consider a few examples to clarify the issue. Let's say that someone wants to enjoy some scenic mountain golfing. One of the best places to tee off with a spectacular view and fresh mountain air would be in the vicinity of the Smoky Mountain National Park in Tennessee, USA, where there is a heavy concentration of 18-hole championship level courses designed by the legends. Another good choice for mountain golfing is Reno or Tahoe, high up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

For some people, it is more than a game or a recreational activity - it is a religion. This type of vacationer might want to consider a pilgrimage to golf's birthplace in St. Andrews, Scotland. The history of golfing at St. Andrews Links stretches all the way back to the 1400s. In addition to the historic tee off, travelers can also enjoy the ancient castles and cathedrals, not to mention all the fun and entertainment of a beach resort.

For those who like the idea of St. Andrews, a more convenient option is to hit the green along a nearby coast or on an island. Beach resorts with golf courses are very popular anyway, and it makes it all the more enticing if the course is on an island with sand and water on all sides. This is why places like Hawaii and the Caribbean islands have a heavy concentration of beautifully designed courses.

Back in America, golfing also has a unique connection to the desert. There are at least three desert destinations that are very famous for golf vacations. These are Phoenix in Arizona, Palm Springs in California and Las Vegas in Nevada. The red rocks, national parks and desert backdrops with wide fairways have turned Sonoran desert golfing into a don't-miss activity for Phoenix visitors.

Whether high up on a mountain or in a vast desert or a coastal paradise with the waves crashing in alongside, the vacation choices should also take into consideration the kind of package on offer. This is important because packages usually include accommodations and the green fees, not to mention carts and sometimes even meals and taxes. Most resorts also offer guaranteed tee times in packages.

There are obviously many aspects to be considered, including the budget and how far away the preferred location is from the traveler's residence. It is hard to generalize these things and there are many more wonderful locations famous for golf vacations. But all the tips provided above should be enough to help travelers know what to look for.