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The Travel Guide • Florida’s Sports Coast • Kaanapali, HI • Gulf Shores, AL • Thailand • BOYNE Golf, MI • Dominican Republic • Brunswick Islands, NC • Cape Cod, MA • Puerto Rico • Mesquite, NV • Reunion Resort, FL
Fall 2023
Fox Hollow Golf Club Tampa, FL www.GolfingMagazine.net
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Fall 2023 Travel Guide Volume 59
Issue 5
golfing m a g a z i n e™
Fall 2023
Publisher Tom Landers TLanders@GolfingMagazine.net Associate Publisher Sean Fitzsimmons GolfingMag@Verizon.net Creative Director Heidi Dyer Production@GolfingMagazine.net Editor John Torsiello Editor@GolfingMagazine.net Travel Editor Claudio DeMarchi Claudio@LakeviewProduction.com Equipment Editor Tom Landers TLanders@GolfingMagazine.net
Saddlebrook Resort, FL
Contributing Writers Sean Fitzsimmons John DiCocco Mark William Paul Scott Kramer
TRAVEL FEATURES
4 Boyne Golf, Michigan
Contributing Photographer Mark William Paul
6 Florida’s Sports Coast Tampa Golf My Way 10 Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, AL 14 Ka‘anapali: Where The World Comes to Play 16 Thailand: Feasting your way On and Off the Course 20 Snapshots from Brunswick Isles, NC 22 Reunion Resort, Orlando, FL 24 Dominican Republic 26 Gettin’ Golf Rich in Puerto Rico 28 Mesquite, Nevada
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THE GOLF, EPIC. THE TRIP, EASY. BOOKING 2024, EVEN EASIER.
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Getting to BOYNE Golf has never been easier... Whether flying into nearby Traverse City (TVC) or our newly renovated private 5200’ airport at Boyne Mountain, our 10 magnificent courses are closer than you think. Call 888.673.4150 to plan your 2024 trip today.
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Boyne Golf
Transforming for the Next Generation By Scott Kramer
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ver the past 75 years, BOYNE Golf in Northern Michigan has grown into one of North America’s largest golf destinations – now encompassing 10 courses and three resort properties, including Inn at Bay Harbor and Bay Harbor Golf Club, The Highlands at Harbor Spring and Boyne Mountain resort. Growing up in Michigan, I remember family trips to Boyne Mountain and The Highlands where I experienced the fun variety of golf. Today, both properties still have much of the same ambiance as back then but have begun an exciting new transformation that will carry on its legacy for the next generation. Everett Kircher, who founded Boyne Resorts in 1947 by acquiring 40 acres with a modest ski hill for $1, has since then built North America’s largest family-owned golf and ski company. A former Michigan state senator said back then, as he accepted the $1 from Kircher for the land - “Anybody damn foolish enough to want to build a ski hill … I’ll give you this property.” A Studebaker salesman from Detroit, Kircher never looked
18th Hole at The Monument Course at Boyne Mountain Resort back. Eventually, he acquired land for The Highlands and expanded into golf, creating summer activities that kept employees working year-round. As golf exploded onto the scene in the 1960’s, Kircher saw golf demand rise -- warranting a championship layout from renowned course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., who created The Heather course. It opened imme-
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GolfingMagazine Magazine• •Fall FallTravel TravelIssue Issue Golfing
diately as one of America’s top public courses -- triggering the beginning of one of the world’s premier world-class golf destinations. In 2019, The Heather was named the National Golf Course of the Year. Today, Kircher’s vision has passed on to his son Stephen, who continues to elevate the Boyne experience through several major renovation projects across golf, skiing, attractions, and lodging.
5th Hole at the Arthur Hills Course at The Highlands Just north of Petoskey near Harbor Springs, The Highlands is undergoing significant transformations both on and off-course. Imagine staying in upscale accommodations reminiscent of an English country estate with Scottish Highlands charm. The Highlands’ 72 holes collectively offer a perfect golf experience where groups can check into the lodge and never get back into their car during their stay. A major part of the resort’s golf transformation, one that I’m especially excited to see evolve, is at the Donald Ross Memorial -- a composite re-creation of classic holes Ross designed in the early 20th century at renowned courses like Seminole, Pinehurst, Oakland Hills and Aronimink. This was the very first project of its kind creating a tribute course honoring a legendary architect. Working with Michigan-based architect and Ross expert Ray Hearn, BOYNE Golf ’s team has begun bringing the holes even closer to their originals. Based on those I’ve seen already completed, this is a must-play. The Highlands also features two other outstanding tracts. The popular Arthur Hills course takes golfers through various landscapes -- reaching a pinnacle on the 13th tee with a 50-mile panorama. And The Moor, widely regarded as a members’ favorite, was renovated -- widened fairways, expanded collection areas around the greens, trees removed, and refreshed bunker sand -- all to create more variety, fun and shot options. Two years ago, The Highlands added an
expansive TrackMan Range Experience, which combines mind-blowing, state-of-the-art technology golf entertainment venue, that doubles as a top practice facility that’s part of the award-winning BOYNE Golf Academy. The academy houses revered instruction plus a state-of-the-art GEARS Golf system that can fit you into the best-possible equipment. BOYNE Golf ’s flagship property, located across Little Traverse Bay and along the shores of Lake Michigan west of Petoskey, is the nationally esteemed Inn at Bay Harbor. Its high-end Bay Harbor Golf Club was designed by Hills, and offers a unique 27-hole combination that takes golfers along Lake Michigan bluffs, through a rock quarry and among the hardwoods. Five minutes away, BOYNE Golf ’s Crooked Tree Golf Club is carved through stands of centuries-old hardwoods, while perched on bluffs overlooking Little Traverse Bay. BOYNE Golf ’s third property, Boyne Mountain Resort, is 20 minutes south of Petoskey. Its lodging options include the Mountain Grand Lodge, condos, and the cool new Chalet Edelweiss located right on the hillside. The two fantastic 18-hole layouts – The Monument and Alpine courses -- offer outstanding mountainside golf and some of Michigan’s most spectacular panoramas. I’m especially excited to visit again because the resort just unveiled SkyBridge Michigan. Billed as the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge for pedestrians, it spans
1,200 feet between the peaks of McLouth to Disciples Ridges, 118 feet in the air. Open year round, it showcases panoramic valley views and extensive light displays. You ride the historic Hemlock Scenic Chairlift to the mountain’s top, then venture out onto the bridge BOYNE Golf ’s variety of courses is collectively refreshing, the course conditions are unparalleled across ten courses, and the scenery amazing. Summer-time golfers can easily fit in 36 holes every day and play well into the evening hours -- close to 10 p.m. for much of the summer. Or visit in the fall when the changing leaf colors provide a fall spectacle to behold. In addition to BOYNE Golf, the region’s Norman Rockwell-like lakeside resort towns of Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Charlevoix, Boyne City and Traverse City have long been summertime playgrounds – attracting people from all over the world, including golfers. It’s no wonder, as the area’s outstanding golf offers the perfect buddy trip destination. BOYNE Golf is easily accessible by car throughout the Midwest. Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport offers non-stops from 17 major U.S. cities during summer, and private aircraft are welcomed at Boyne Mountain’s 5200’ airport that recently received four million dollars in upgrades! To plan your next great golf getaway visit www.BoyneGolf.com or call 888.673.4150 and let their Guest Experience Agents create your perfect golf vacation.
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Travel
Golf Tampa Bay My Way
By CLAUDIO DEMARCHI
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ruth be known the only time we spent in Tampa Bay was arriving into and departing from the International Airport. Our destination was pre planned after some advanced scouting of the Tampa / Wesley Chapel area located approximately, 35 miles north of Tampa International. Our golf and accommodations ranged from Dade City in the east across to New Port Richey on the Gulf of Mexico, we did end up with a night and round on the infamous Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort. The region is known as Florida’s Sports Coast / Pasco County. Google it!!! Our group was a mixture of North American and International Golf Tour Operators who for years had been sending golfers to Resorts such as Saddlebrook and Innisbrook, but unfamiliar with the great golf in between. We have now created that link of great golf, and I add, these courses are at half or a quarter of the costs to play the resorts. We also discovered many options on things to do, and a multitude of dining options. www.FLSportsCoast.com Additionally, the chosen accommodations provided a more local flair. The Hyatt Place Tampa / Wesley Chapel right off I-75 proved to be an overwhelming hit. Located right across from the Tampa Outlets gave everyone easy access to a favorite pastime, shopping, plus, dining options. Walk out the front door
Lake Jovita South Course, 9th Green of the Hyatt Place and there is not need to even get in your car as within a 5-to-15-minute walk are no fewer than a dozen bars, restaurants and even more shopping. A relatively new addition to this space is a most popular bar / restaurant, POPSTROKE, with 2 Tiger Woods designed mini putts for those who just don’t get enough golf. Within a 10-minute drive or Uber of course are the Shops at Wiregrass, yes there is shopping here too, also, up to 30 bars and restaurants to suite any pallet. One visit here is never enough! www.TheShopsAtWiregrass.com I can’t say enough about the wonderful
and welcoming staff at the Hyatt Place, its cleanliness and amazing breakfast. They just so happen to have a quaint little bar close to reception. Guessing that I must have made some sort of impression last time around, the bar tender poked her head around the corner and said, “Is it almost Bourbon time Mr. DeMarchi?” Gotta love it! And, yes, it was indeed Bourbon time. First two rounds of this golf adventure took place at Semi-Private, Lake Jovita Golf Club close to Dade City. The first of the 3 golf gems discovered offers up 2 totally different courses, both awesome, and overwhelm-
Saddlebrook Resort, 9th Hole 66 Golfing Magazine • Fall Travel Issue Golfing Magazine • Fall Travel Issue
ing hits with the group. The courses were designed by PGA TOUR great Tom Lehman & award-winning Architect Kurt Sandness. The South Course, considered “the Members Course” is a tighter layout, more of a player’s course, where accuracy is key. There are plenty of dog-legs to deal with, plenty of water, marshes and creeks to deal with and bunkers too! The 9th and 18th holes taking you back to a most impressive southern style clubhouse are most memorable. The North Course is a wonderful compliment to the South Course, more of a grip it and rip it style, wider fairways, fewer but more strategically placed bunkers and some interesting water plays. Believe it or not there are rolling fairways and elevation changes that come into play in this part of Florida. Stay & Play is available at Lake Jovita, 1750 sq/ft Villas, only a 2-minute walk from the Clubhouse’s exceptional dining and cozy 19th hole. Villas are fully furnished 3BR/2BA very private locations in a gated community overlooking the 18th & 9th greens and lake with a beautifully lit up fountain. www.LakeJovita.com From our stay at the Hyatt our next golf round at Plantation Palms Golf Club was only 10 minutes away. A solid track, another semi-private club that for 3 straight years has been selected “Best of the Best” by a Tampa Bay Times reader poll. The links style design was carved from a 400-acre citrus grove that slopes from west to east, providing interesting elevation changes. The course opens up with a welcoming par 5 and then slowly steps up with a mixture of strong par 3s. It won’t take long to notice the attractive framing of fairways and greens with pine trees, water and large snowwhite sand traps. Water is in play on 17 of 18 holes. Greens are elevated with some undulation to take note of, read carefully! You will also want to make Mulligan’s Irish Pub your 19th hole for the day. Lunch and a cold one or 2 are a must. www.PlantationPalms.net The iconic Saddlebrook Resort is also
minutes from the Hyatt, on a 5,623-acre property where you find a gazillion gallon pool, tennis courts, with over 500 condo style units 1-3 bedrooms, once on property there is no vehicle required. Walking distance to everything or call the concierge and they come get you. Two 18-hole Arnold Palmer Designed Courses on site. We played the links style
Lake Jovita North Course, 4th Hole
Palmer Course. It’s all about course management here. Fairways are generous but stray and there is plenty of water, towering cypress and oak lined fairways to deal with. White sand bunkers protect a variety of greens, medium to large in size with some interesting complexes. Surrounding the greens, the thick, gnarly Bermuda rough tangles around the club and complicates the soft touch needed to play short pitch shots. Miss the green, and you
face a difficult par. The Par 4 fifth hole is a beauty, my favorite, great watery visuals. www.Saddlebrook.com It was moving day for the group and we were all in anticipation to making our way towards the Gulf of Mexico and a stay at the historic Hacienda in New Port Richey. The Hacienda is a focal point of New Port Richey’s downtown and located steps from the Cotee River. After settling in, a cocktail or two, we all primed to board a ponton party boat. Cruising up the Cotee and venturing into the Gulf of Mexico before turning around and being dropped off for a fine dining experience, under the stars, overlooking the Gulf at Whiskey Joe’s. The Hacienda was originally built in 1927 and re opened in 2015, believe me, it is a place you want to stay. Featuring 40 comfortably appointed rooms, each styled with a classic elegance, reminiscent of the hotel’s original, Spanish-Floridian charm. You will discover the original accents and architecture from the 1920s, complimented by modern amenities. It doesn’t take long before guests of the Hacienda find themselves whisked back in time to the glory days of New Port Richey and its reputation as “The Hollywood of the East.” The once quaint town quickly became a notorious hot spot for celebrities and dignitaries from across the country, as notable figures made their way to the riverside town to set up homes, but The Hacienda was always the place to be. Notables included Gloria Swanson and Charlie Chaplin, stars of the silver screen. Bad boy Al Capone, and baseball slugger Babe Ruth hung out, as did the first ever golfer to win all four majors, Gene Sarazan. Historic Hacienda Hotel in the heart of New Port Richey. www. HaciendaHotelNPR.com From the Hacienda, Fox Hollow Golf Club is only 20 minutes away. Another of the Tampa Bay regions gems, a premier semi-private golf courses and one of Robert Trent Jones Sr. last designs, opened in 1994. Any time you set foot on a RTJ Sr. course you should know that this day you need to be on your game, this round will not be a walk in the park. WOW factor sets in the moment drop your bag off, you can’t help but catch site of the 10th and 18th holes with large water bor-
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Travel dering both sides of the fairway. Central Florida magazine consistently ranks the 18th hole as “Best Par 4 in Florida”. Your visuals are only exemplified when you step foot into the “The Gille” or 19th hole with elevated views of both holes. The Grille is another 19th hole not to be missed. Locals have been known to dine here regularly, golfing or not. Water comes into play on 11 holes and Jones’ other signature feature – plentiful, profound and penal bunker complexes – abounds. Greens are larges with some undulation to test your skills. Conditioning here like all others in this collection are always top notch. Fox Hollow has hosted local qualifying for the U.S. Open as well as qualifiers for the Valspar Championship, the PGA Tour event held annually at Innisbrook Golf Resort. www.FoxHollwGolfClub.com To complete our linking of the of this region just north of Tampa with golf gems between Saddlebrook and Innisbrook we spent a night and played a round on the Copperhead Course, host of the PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship at Innisbrook Resort. The Copperhead Course will challenge your every skill as it does the players on tour, ranked as the Tour’s 7th toughest course. There are 4 courses in all at Innisbrook offering a number of options and playability. Striking in both beauty and challenge - The Copperhead Course is a lengthy challenge for even the longest hitters at more than 7,200 yards and is a must-play. You will be navigating your way through pine tree-lined fairways and rolling terrain define the course, and the surrounding lakes and ponds present
Hacienda in New Port Richey water hazards that are also home to abundant wildlife including fox squirrels, bald eagles, alligators, blue herons, and many other types of waterfowl. Striking in both beauty and challenge. Of course, the anticipation of playing, challenging and surviving the “Snake Pit” make the day most memorable. Countless PGA Tour events have been won and lost in the Snake Pit. Innisbrook Resort is nestled on 900 acres of rolling hills and lush landscape in St. Pete’s Clearwater / Tampa Bay area. Innisbrook Resort offers an idyllic and private destination. To complement the beautiful natural setting, accommodations are all condo-style, low-rise lodges, arranged in small clusters that blend perfectly into the natural landscape. Spacious and well-appointed guest rooms and suites feature all of the comforts of home with many featuring separate bedrooms, liv-
ing areas, full kitchens, and private patios or balconies with nature or golf course views. www.InnisbrookGolfResort.com So now you know, “the rest of the story,” just 35 miles to the north of Tampa International Airport in the Tampa / Wesley Chapel area you will find another set of Florida’s hidden gems when it comes to golf, Fox Hollow Golf Club, Plantation Palms Golf Club and Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club. Excellent golf experiences at very very reasonable green fee rates. Combine that with a stay and play experience at the Hyatt Place and The Hacienda and it opens up a whole new world of great golf, dining and adventure. For more information on the entire Florida’s Sports Coast region visit www.FLSportsCoast.com
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Florida’s Sports Coast offers a more exciting kind of vacation. With four amazing cities to explore - and countless ways to get out and play - visitors will find there’s much more than just great golf in this area. Whether your fishing on the Gulf of Mexico, paddleboarding through mangrove lined coastlines, ballooning over Wesley Chapel, or enjoying a beer at one of our craft breweries, you’ll discover Florida’s Sports Coast is an unbeatable location for your next trip.
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Travel
Playing that Perfect Trifecta on the Beaches
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama By CLAUDIO DEMARCHI
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azing into the Gulf of Mexico from our luxurious 18th floor Turquois Place condominium, look left, look right and it is miles and miles of white sand beach as far as the eye can see. It was my first time to the Gulf Shores / Orange Beach area, the golf was excellent as anticipated, the seaside setting with fabulous restaurants and bars put the entire experience over the top. The freshest of seafood options, flounder, grouper, red snapper and of course any style of oysters you could want. Steak lovers do not despair, you to will find as we did, some of the finest in the country. Full disclosure although we played a trifecta of properties, but there was so much more, Craft Farms Golf Club is a 36-hole complex, Peninsula Golf & Raquet Club is a trifecta in itself with 27 holes with Kiva Dunes Resort having 18 holes. All three properties are relatively close to each other as they are to the many options you have for your golf vacation. It didn’t take long for our group to get settled into Kiva Dues Resort. Of course, once checked into our condos here we are an elevator ride to the Pro Shop and the Kiva Grill where breakfast is awesome and opens up early in the mornings. Also, very convenient for a post round refreshment, lunch or dinner. Minutes from our units we found ourselves overlooking the Gulf of Mexico enjoying dinner at the Kiva Beach Club Restaurant. Margaritas and Chardonay flowed as we indulged into some
Craft Farms, Cotton Creek Course lemon garlic oysters and a red snapper dinner with a sunset backdrop. Take me to the beach! With its strategic and somewhat secluded location on a peninsula separating the Gulf of Mexico from Mobile Bay, from our condo perched above Kiva Dunes, 18th green we could see the coastal beaches. You won’t have to go to beach to get your share of beach time. This links course will give you plenty of that, if your game is not on. While white sand beaches are prevalent throughout, there are plenty of natural dunes and coastal shrubbery to make you want to stay on the
fairways. Not much more can be said about this course whose layout was created by the property’s developer Jim Edgemon and longtime friend, and US Open Winner Jerry Pate that is not captured within the accolades from, Golf Digest, Golf Pass, Golf Advisor, Golfweek and Links Magazine to name a few. Toping that list of accolades might be, #1 Course in Alabama in 2017 by Golf Advisor. With the Robert Trent Jones Trail running through Alabama, we all know how many great courses there are throughout the State.
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Golfing Magazine • Fall Travel Issue
Southington Country Club
Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club
Winds off the Bay’s add another dimension to your day here. As the locals will tell you, “No two days are the same.” We were rather fortunate on our day to have relatively no wind. Par 3’s offer up great variety with none more challenging than the all over water 17th. Other favorite holes include the Par 4th, 9th where a good drive leaves you a shot over water to a green, protected by water to the left. Seems to me that I am a sucker for water holes, number 2, might be my Par 5 of choice, 2 good shots leave you a wedge to a green protect by water right. Hole 18, although, the water that lines the right side of the fairway should not come into play, “takes you to the house!” Or in our case, our condo. You tee it up facing a large fairway with a backdrop of a majestic white structure that you to can call home. www.KivaDunes.com Before moving on, I would be remiss if I did not let you know about this must stop dining experience minutes from Kiva Dunes, on the Gulf Coast. Jesses Steakhouse on the Bay, known for there unique cuts of dry and wet-aged steaks, bone-in cuts, you should not overlook the fresh fish that is brought in daily or the amazing setting on the Bay. www.JessesRestaurant.com We got our first glimpse of the Turquoise Place Condominiums from a few miles offshore, our own version of a 3-hour tour, cruising the Gulf of Mexico. A beautiful morning and something that everyone should do at least once!
Little did we know the luxury and panoramic vistas that awaited. They offer up many choices of 3- & 4-bedroom units. Something for everyone. Whether it’s morning coffee overlooking the gulf and afternoon cocktail or a late-night bourbon it seems like the balcony is always calling. The condos are extremely comfortable and you will want to nothing, beaches, pools and even a lazy river are on site. Location gives you so many options for dining and nightlife. www.SpectrumResorts.com The beach theme continues throughout this adventure with a dining experience minutes from our condo at Coastal Orange Beach a waterfront restaurant over looking white sands of the Gulf of Mexico. Seasonal seafood and indulgent deserts are specialties along with spectacular sunsets. The Coastal Beach Bar adjacent features live music daily and any cocktail for any state of mind. Have enough to drink and you won’t resist picking up something in their 3,000 sq. ft. retail outlet Coastal Clothing. This evening continued for us with a special treat, at least for me. I had heard of the infamous bar that straddled the Gulf Shores, Alabama and Florida border. The Flora-Bama Lounge is a beach bar that has been serving up music and good since 1964. No fewer than five stages for live music and features bands of country, rock, dance and beach music. You can relax in any of the areas and select the entertainment of your choice. Feeling a little peckish, you might also slide up to the Oyster
bar or Ole River Grill. If you need a little away time the Flora-Bama has several beach-front bars where you might enjoy a beautiful sunset. www.FloraBama.com The Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club is a trifecta of its own here in the Gulf Shores / Orange Beach area. Peninsula is the home to three different nines, Marsh, Lakes and Cypress. Rated 4 ½ stars by Golf Digest, each course was designed by the renowned southern favorite, Earl Stone, to give you a dramatically different playing experience on conditions second to none. Up for us were the Cypress and Marsh nines. Cypress could be considered grip it and rip in style. Generous landing areas off the tee. A number of forced carries make tee selection extremely important for your day. Add in strategically placed bunkers, waste bunkers and water hazards and you find out why Peninsula is a world class experience. The Marsh nine I would consider more of players course where accuracy and placement off the tee, club selection on second shots are make it, or break as the key to a good round. Although, the Lakes nine is another 9 here, you will find water in combination with marshes and some awesome golf course bridges on 8 of the nine holes. www.PeninsulaGolfClub.com An option for Stay & Play Golf is the oceanside Perdido Beach Resort, although we did not this time around. It is a very popular spot and they were sold out while we were
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Travel Craft Farms, Cypress Bend Course
there. However, that did not preclude us from an exquisite dinner at Voyages with Executive Chef Brody Olive fresh off his earning the title “King of American Seafood” at the Great American Seafood Cook-Off Championship in New Orleans earlier this year. The combination of spectacular views, an award-winning wine list, local gulf caught seafood and dry aged steaks make Voyagers a unique culinary destination. www.PerdidoBeachResort.com If you are an Arnold Plamer design fan of which I am, then you are in for a real treat at Craft Farms Golf Club with two 4 ½ star Golf Digest rated courses. Both are modern links style courses and in typical Palmer style they offer challenge without intimidation. Semiprivate tells you that the courses are maintained “to the tee” as their members would have it no other way. Cypress Bend is a perfect complement to its big sister, Cotton Creek, this course has a coastal feel as it traverses a unique system of
cord-grass accented lakes which come into play on nearly every hole. Cypress Bend offers wide fairways, vast landing areas and large undulating greens. For a guy who likes Palmer design and playing around water there is no shortage of favorite holes. The par 3’s offer up great variety but I tend to lean towards Par 5’s and the 18th with water down all down the right hand side crossing in front and to the left of the green makes it #1 for me. The Cotton Creek course is a fun course to play with numerous risk/ reward opportunities throughout. Here you deal with more tree lined and rolling fairways and for water lovers do not despair as small lakes, ponds and rivers come into play on 14 of the 18 holes. The lush course is challenging for low handicap players but with five staggered tee boxes, it is a fun challenge for all. Fun and challenge really comes into play on the Par 4, 6th, small lake down the entire right hand and forms in to
surround the large undulating green, along with some protective bunkers. Bite off as much as you can chew for a short second shot. Maybe??? The Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend courses at Craft Farms are Alabama’s only Arnold Palmer Signature Design Courses. The courses are distinctly different, and both assure a challenging yet playable golf experience. www.CraftFarms.com The Gulf Shores / Orange Beach area of Alabama is an excellent destination whether for a golf vacation or any occasion at all. With the fresh Gulf Coast breezes and warm winter sunshine, Gulf Shores is the hidden jewel of the Gulf Coast. Enjoy nearby shopping, boating, beach, tourist attractions, deep sea fishing and, of course, golf! www.GulfShores.com Looking for the one stop in booking all your Stay & Play Golf Vacation needs? 11 courses in all to choose from, numerous accommodation and custom-built Stay & Play to suite any style or budget. www.CoastalAlabamaGolf.com
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Travel
Ka‘anapali: Where The World Comes to Play Hawai‘i’s first master-planned resort remains one of the best
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cclaimed for its warm hospitality, beautiful beaches and an adventurous spirit, America’s 50th state is also “golf heaven” – a plethora of diverse courses featuring jaw-dropping views and fun at every turn. LOCATION Situated on 300 acres of sacred lands once home to the Royal Chiefs of Maui, Ka‘anapali Golf Courses offers 36 holes of panoramic views of Lana‘i, Molokai and the West Maui Mountains. As part of the Ka‘anapali Beach Resort Association, guests can stay at one of 13 beautiful hotels and resorts. The community is anchored by Whalers Village, a beachside shopping center with boutiques, restaurants, a whaling museum, hula lessons and other entertaining activities. Three miles south lies the historic town of Lahaina, which translates to “relentless sun” in Hawaiian. The bustling area is filled with shops and plays host to the annual Thanksgivingweek college basketball tournament, the Maui Jim Invitational. ROYAL KA‘ANAPALI Opened in 1962 by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the par-71, 6,700-yard Royal Ka‘anapali is renowned for its forgiving fairways, quick undulating greens and trade winds. Beginning at sea level, the course hugs the shoreline before rising into the foothills, where bird’s-eye views are abundant. Arnold Palmer remarked, “The 18th hole is one of the best and most
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challenging finishing holes that I have ever played.” Royal Ka‘anapali gained international notoriety by hosting high-profile events, including Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf (1964), Canada Cup (1964), LPGA Women’s Kemper Open (198285), PGA TOUR Champions’ Ka‘anapali Classic (1987-2000) and SKINS Game (200811) and Ka’anapali Collegiate Invitational (2014-2019, 2021, 2022). KA‘ANAPALI KAI Debuting in 1976 by Arthur Jack Snyder and renovated in 2005 by Hawaii’s most prolific golf course architect, Robin Nelson, Ka‘anapali Kai is an 18-hole, family-friendly complement to Royal Ka‘anapali. The 6,400-yard, par-70 layout boasts an array of strategically placed bunkers, contoured fairways and native flora and fauna. Ka‘anapali Kai famously hosted Golf Channel’s “Big Break Ka‘anapali” in 2008. FOOTGOLF Fueling soccer fan’s enthusiasm from the World Cup, Ka‘anapali is also home to Maui’s only FootGolf Course. This outdoor activity offers a fun combo of golf and soccer. The 9-hole, par 34 layout stretches 1,165 yards along the fairways of Ka‘anapali Kai. The FootGolf Course is open seven days a week from 4 – 6 p.m. Guests can play for just $15. Ball rentals are $5.
ROCK ‘N RANGE For those who enjoy grooving to good music while simultaneously groov-ing nice golf swings, Ka‘anapali is the place for you. “Rock ‘N Range is an activity for golfers and non-golfers to come together in a fun, relaxed and lounge-style atmosphere. Paired with happy hour-style Hawaiian food, drinks, music and games, individuals and private groups are treated to a memorable event,” said Susan Havens, Director of Sales and Marketing for Ka‘anapali Golf Courses. STAFF Hawaiian culture is celebrated for its familystyle (‘Ohana) sense of inclusion. Ka‘anapali is no exception. Over the last nine months, more than half of Ka‘anapali’s new hires have been women and minorities. Anchored by females serving as the Regional Operations Director and Head Golf Professional, Ka‘anapali is a leading club with diversity, equity and inclusion in golf, with a focus on Aloha for all. PLAN YOUR TRIP Ka‘anapali can be reached via Kahului Airport (OGG) or Kapalua Airport (JHM). With three miles of white sand beaches and scenic Pacific Ocean views, Ka‘anapali is ready to “E Komo Mai” (welcome) you to paradise in 2023! To learn more, visit www.KaanapaliGolfCourses.com
Where Aloha Begins... Boasting the longest stretch of ocean front holes in all of Hawaii, the Ocean Course Hokuala will test your golf and your photography skills as you maneuver through the mango groves of the rainforest terrain and play along the cliffside of the beautiful Pacific on this Jack Nicklaus signature layout.
3351 Ho’Olaulea Way Lihue, HI 96766 www.golfhokuala.com www.GolfingMagazine.net 15
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Feasting your way through Greens On and Off the Course By CLAUDIO DEMARCHI
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lanning that trip of a lifetime can be a daunting task at the best of times. It can be that much more challenging if the destination in consideration is on the other side of the world. When a young Canadian golfer, AJ Easton, from Calgary went on his first Asian golf adventure, he had no idea that he would meet the love of his life and set roots down in Thailand. He is not the first and likely will not be the last. Twenty years later and based in Bangkok with his company Asia Golf Experience’s, AJ has been guiding golfers and travelers as they find their way around Thailand’s great golf and cultural experiences. Previously we have taken you to other parts of Thailand, on this occasion we will keep you in Bangkok, after all it is consistently the #1 most visited city in the world. Our man with boots on the ground is a bit of a foodie in his own right. Thailand, known as the ‘Land of Smiles’ is famous for many things which makes it a draw for international tourists. One of the biggest of them all has to be the delicious food! Some of the best and most popular dishes in the world. Whether cooked in a 5-star restaurant or on the side of the street in a wok on a 3 wheeled cart, you’re bound to have a good meal every time! It should come as no surprise that in Bangkok and throughout Thailand that the Michelin Star experience is alive and well. In
Alpine Golf and Sports Club Bangkok, there are an impressive 38 restaurants listed in the illustrious Michelin guide, all making the cut together, given Michelin’s recent introduction of the city to its illustrious guide. Of those listed, 17 earned Michelin stars. The best part of this is that you won’t have to break the bank to eat here! Side note: As of 2019, Bangkok has a total of 16 Michelin-starred restaurants, with 11 of them receiving one star and the remaining 5 receiving two stars. At the time Bangkok had the most Michelin-starred restaurants in Southeast Asia, ahead of Singapore (which has 12) and Kuala Lumpur (4). We, and by that we mean AJ, is going to
give you a taste of what you can expect from a few of his favorites, blend in some golf and where to stay! First up, the ever-popular Jay Fai located in the oldest part of Bangkok and one of only 6 to receive a 2 star rating, Jay Fai is most popular for her succulent crab meat omelet, curry stirfries and signature drunken seafood noodles. The queue out the front for this dish got so long that this little restaurant on the corner with just a few tables had to set up a reservations system in order to be able to handle the number of people wanting to try the food. The chef, Supinya Junsuta, is part of the charm with her toque and ski goggles on to make sure she
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Southington Country Club
Alpine Golf and Sports Club can get through as many of her famous dishes as possible. In addition to the crab meet omelet, Jay Fai has seafood dishes to die for, we love the thick noodles in gravy / seafood combo. Great spot to visit after a round of golf, or on an off day! Just be sure to make a reservation before going. Go-Ang Kaomunkai Pratunam (Petchaburi 30) Located in Central World, this humble chicken and rice stall has drawn a devoted fan base of locals and in-the-know visitors for more than 60 years. The aromatic rice is cooked with chicken oil and perfectly matches the tender and juicy chicken. The soybean with ginger and chili dipping sauce is the flavorful addition. Another favorite here is the steamed Bok Choy in Oyster Sauce to compliment the Chicken & Rice. There is a choice of steamed rice or oily rice but we 100% recommend to go with the oily rice as it’s much tastier! Last, but definitely not least, in our top recommendations is a restaurant called Beer Hima, translation, beer snow! The beer at this southern Thai food restaurant is just to the point of being icy and is poured into a pint glass with frozen water in the bottom. The beer comes at a level just below a slurpee, and it is oh so good when coupled with the spicy southern
Thai food dishes. The signature here is the Thai sour curry with grouper, known in the south of Thailand as Gang Som. It is as authentic as it gets and if you really want to eat like a Thai, this should be your choice! Compliment it with the “Moo Koh” and Kale with Crispy Pork. You won’t be hungry after some time enjoying Beer Hema!
x par 3s, 6 x par 4s and 6 x par 5s. Plenty of WOW factor right from the outset. Varied landscape features, meticulously maintained from tee to green, strategically placed white sand bunkers and plenty of water will challenge even the most experienced golfer. But the golf is just part of the experience. The course provides a buffet meal before & after golf, featuring local dishes Jai Fai Crabmeat Omlet such as crispy pork and red pork on rice. It might sound like another foodie experience, and it really is, but on course there are numerous kiosks with Thai snacks such as grilled pork on a stick with sticky rice and grilled meatballs. A nice injection of energy to keep you going through your round. Alpine Golf and Sports Club Bangkok: One of two Ronald Garl courses that make our list, Alpine Golf and Sports To check out all the Michelin Club is a top-rated course, not only in Bangkok, Star experiences in Bangkok. but within Asia. Elevation changes come into play on this parkland style course. Well bunBangkok’s MICHELIN Restaurants From perhaps some greens on your plate kered and water in play on quite a few holes, we take you to 3 top recommendations of it pays to be straight as the rough is often places to play some world class golf around severe. Members here demand excellence when Bangkok… along with some of the best of the it comes to maintenance and that is what you world class caddie experience that you only find too will find. in Thailand! An excellent club house and facilities add Nikanti Golf Club is a unique golf experi- to the reputation Alpine has, and is a must-play ence in Bangkok, challenging yet fun with 6 for anyone looking to play the best-of-the-best
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RG Golf City and challenge themselves while in Thailand. From here, head back into town, drop off at the hotel and head off to Go Ang Kaomunkai Pratunam (Petchaburi 30) and satisfy your hunger with some delicious chicken & rice! The RG Golf City – Dream Arena: Another of the must plays of the Ronald Garl-designed courses in Bangkok, The RG Golf City – Dream Arena is a replica course where the front 9 features a collection of holes from around the world such as The Road Hole, The Postage Stamp, the Church Pews at Oakmont and the 17th at TPC Sawgrass. After the turn, you’ll be heading down hole 10 at August National and continue on to play the entire back 9 at Augusta National. It’s easy to put yourself on those fairways and at Amen Corner and imagine yourself on Sunday coming down to the finish line! Truly a unique experience and a must play!!! Where to stay in Bangkok? We have two and preferred distinct areas that we recommend you stay, Lower Sukhumvit or the Riverside. Lower Sukhumvit is home to most of the nightlife, many different restaurants, the cultural experience, and shopping. The “shop ‘till you drop” saying comes true here! An excellent 4-star option in Sukhumvit, look no further than Mercure Sukhumvit Soi 11. It probably deserves higher than the 4-stars but we can tell 18
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you that the price is right. They handle lots of golfers, understand golfers’ needs, and provide spacious rooms with an excellent breakfast! If you’re looking for something a bit higher, on the 5-star scale, Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit is an excellent property set right
along Sukhumvit Road. Recently renovated, rooms are modern and spacious with a nice Thai touch to them (don’t forget to look at the Thai numbers for your room number! A welcoming lobby including a new Japanese restaurant compliments an excellent Belgian themed restaurant on the rooftop, there is lots to eat and drink without leaving the comforts of the hotel.
The Riverside area, it’s mostly 5-star options and we would recommend the Anantara Riverside Resort. With rooms that back on to the Chao Phrya River it is a very comfortable and top-quality spot to call home for your stay. You will find Thai themes throughout the hotel, and traditional Thai service that always comes with a smile. Consider a dinner cruise on their Manohra Cruise, a luxurious evening dining experience, past the lit-up temples, moving under the many up bridges on a traditional Thai wooden boat. Bangkok is a city that doesn’t sleep, but one that will tantalize and tingle your tastebuds. It will give you the 5-star golf experience, excellent and safe accommodation as well as endless things to do outside of golf. If you’re looking to take your first golf trip to Thailand, or looking to come back after some time away, there’s no better time to book than now as the cold weather closes in for winter, and the sunny skies and nice sea breezes come in for the winter in Thailand. To get more information please contact either AJ or his partner Ian, at Asia Golf Experiences golf@asiagolfexperiences.com They will make sure you have a fantastic and memorable trip. www.AsiaGolfExperiences.com To check out all the rich experiences that Thailand has to offer www.ThailandInsider.com.
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Snapshots from Brunswick Islands North Carolina’s Hidden Gem Golf Destination
By Glen Turk
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oing to a golf destination with a fully open mind has its advantages. Such was the case when Golfing Magazine recently experienced North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands on a golf writer’s familiarization trip. Heck, my mind was so open I didn’t even know exactly where the Brunswick Islands was, much like I didn’t know where Villanova, Rutgers, and Temple Universities were until I started following college basketball in the 80s. As I quickly learned, there is not a specific place named Brunswick Islands, instead the moniker is used to encompass five distinctive islands and surrounding coastal towns including Calabash, Leland, and Shallotte on North Carolina’s east coast halfway between Wilmington to the north and Myrtle Beach to the south. Speaking of south, all beaches in
Brunswick County face south as the Atlantic coastline juts down from its normal east facing way in the cool island town of Sunset Beach. What I also learned is no matter which direction you head; you’ll be greeted by another magnificent golf course just around the bend. In fact, Brunswick Islands’ stellar website (www. ncbrunswickgolf.com) boasts the region is home to over 30 courses and 45 miles of pristine coastline. Even more amazing, over 90% of the courses are open to the public, making the area a haven for local and traveling golfers alike. As you’ll see I did a lot of living in a short time in North Carolina. Day 1 – Booming it on a Fred Couples Signature Design There is Northeast fall warmth and then there is North Carolina fall warmth. Higher humidity and warm breezes off the ocean make 60 degrees feel like 70+. Our first taste of Brunswick Islands was the classy Carolina National, a Freddie “Boom Boom” Couples
Signature Golf Facility. The 27-hole layout is divided into the Egret, Heron, and Ibis nines, and all three are visually stunning and really pop during the twilight hours. The course has a certain flow to it, just like the rhythm of its designer’s swing. Plus, the prodigious clubhouse surrounded by a huge porch is the ideal spot for a post-round beverage. Our home base for the trip was Sea Trails Villas, a posh establishment that features oneto-four-bedroom villas with a host of amenities including an on-site pool and clubhouse restaurant. The 2,600-acre property also boasts three championship caliber golf courses and is only 1.5 miles from the beautiful barrier island beaches. The villas were outstanding as they included a common area and plenty of space to stretch out after a hard day on the links. To book custom golf packages to the area, visit www.seatrailsvilla.com for more information. Day 2 – Eat What You Caught, and Keep Playing with the Clubs You Brought
Jones Course at Sea Trail Resort, Hole #5 20 Golfing Magazine • Fall Travel Issue 20 Golfing Magazine • Fall Travel Issue
A 6:00 a.m. wakeup call was filled with anticipation, as our group was joining the Calabash Fishing Fleet for some epic deep-sea fishing. We proceeded three miles off the coast and let their skilled staff do 90% of the work to give us 100% of the joy of catching Spanish Mackerels, Bonitos, and even a rogue Spinner Shark, which we immediately threw back. The highlight of the morning was heading back to the Waterfront Seafood Shack where they prepared and cooked our bounty into one the of finest fish frys I’ve ever had. Then it was off to The Pearl Golf Links and their stable of 27 championship holes. We got to enjoy 9 holes on the East Course and 5 on the North to whet our whistle for next time. The East is dramatically beautiful, especially holes 7 through 9, which typically serve as holes 16 through 18 during their daily routing. The 572-yard 9th is a titan of a par-5, with water impacting the hole all the way down the left side. An uphill approach must be calculated to a small green if you’re looking to make a par or better. I personally love 27-hole facilities thanks to the flexible they provide golf groups, so it was cool to play two of them back-to-back in Brunswick Islands! Day 3 – 36 by Day and World-Famous Grouper Bites by Night After a .2 mile bus ride from our villas to the Jones Course at Sea Trail Resort, our group was “jonsing” to play 36. The resort is home to three championship layouts, with The Maples, and The Byrd 18s rounding out the 54-hole property. The Jones Course is designed by U.S. Open Doctor Rees Jones, hence the name. The property was far more tree lined than the previous venues and gave off a Pinehurst type of vibe. Jones did an amazing job on the four par-3s with my favorite being the 6th hole, which requires a forced carry from 130 yards over a massive railroad tie. Make sure you have a spotter if you play this hole in the morning, as the low coastal sun was right in our faces. Our afternoon round was conducted at River’s Edge Golf Club in nearby Shallotte. This is not hyperbole, as River’s Edge was the finest Arnold Palmer designed course I’ve ever played and the experience immediately went into my top 15 of all-time. I will even go so far to say for the price (under $80 for their non-peak afternoon rate) River’s Edge might be the most underrated and affordable course I’ve played in the last five years. Honestly, the final four holes
on each nine belong in a museum. River’s Edge Director of Operations Jason Monahan hears compliments like that all the time. “The splendor of these holes lies in the land they navigate,” began Monahan. “Sitting along the bluffs and tidal marshes of the Shallotte River, the unmatched scenery and coastal breezes will be a welcomed distraction. It is part of the River’s Edge experience,” concluded Monahan. Their incomparable inward nine stretch culminates with “Arnie’s Revenge,” a sinister 540-yard, uphill, massive dogleg par-5 to the narrowest green opening on the course. “Arnie’s Revenge says it all,” began Monahan. “It’s a love it or hate it hole, but none the less playing it will yield a lasting memory! Golfers will want to aim down the left center of the fairway off the tee, carefully calculating the distance to the marsh to ensure optimal placement. The smart second shot should be played toward the bunkers across the hazard leaving the golfer with a wedge to a very narrow, deep green. The hero may elect the risk reward option, going
for the green in two. They should know one of the greatest heroes in golf, Mr. Palmer himself, was not successful in this attempt. Whichever journey you choose will challenge the nerves of even the best,” stated Monahan. Here is a good place to mention that every night on the trip we had a gourmet meal, mainly at famous fish restaurants right near the ocean. The Boat Landing Restaurant and Sharky’s are two must-stop options when the sun goes down! When at Sharky’s you haven’t lived until you’ve devoured an order of Fried Grouper Bites with their world-famous dipping sauce. Day 4 – Straight as the Crow Creek Flies Our final day in paradise began with a round at Crow Creek Golf Club in Calabash. I’ve always contended you want your last round of a trip at a fun course that won’t overly beat you up and Crow Creek checked all those boxes. Trust me, it was no pushover by any stretch, but the trouble was out in front of you and could be navigated through proper aim and strategy. Once again, like every property before, Crow Creek had an unbelievable clubhouse filled with a bevy of kind, golf-loving employees. In fact, everyone we met, from Mitzi York at the Brunswick Islands CVB to the bag drop and beverage cart attendants, everyone wanted our stay to be memorable. Simply put, when great people and outstanding golf converge in North Carolina, you have a destination that must be explored. For more information on the Brunswick Islands, visit www.NCBrunswick.com or follow them on Instagram @ncbrunswickislands
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Union at Reunion The Ultimate Trifecta of World Class Golf & Improving YOUR Game By CLAUDIO DEMARCHI
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rifecta Number 1: Reunion Resort’s three signature courses built on the vision of three golf legends, Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus, an unparalleled experience. Accommodations at Reunion will suite any style of traveler, personally I love the Villas in the Grande Tower, ground level provides direct access to the Watson and Palmer Clubhouse, and awesome breakfast and one of the best Sushi experiences in Florida. One to 3 plush bedrooms, large living room spaces, private outdoor balconies and full kitchens. For groups, Reunion has over 80 vacation homes, from 3 to 15 bedrooms. Every Palmer Course, Hole #1 vacation home is unique in its size, amenities, and design. You choose the perfect one let them indulge in the spellbinding Harry for your own group’s needs. Although on Potter-themed kids’ accommodations. Eagle Cove: 14 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms, property there is a complimentary on Resort includes a private two-lanes bowling alley, shuttle service. movie theater, indoor basketball courts, mulTeasers….. Legends Palace: Just an oputiple game rooms, private swimming pool lent mansion, 13 bedrooms, 15 baths, 22,000 with slide and outdoor kitchen. Want to get sq. ft. includes a private gym, home theater, indoors and relax in the indoor spa and sauna. bowling alley, arcade room, swimming pool, You can bring the kids, when not golfing, let outdoor hot tub, and fire pits. Kids coming,
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them enjoy the Star Wars themed rooms and laser tag areas. Eagle Bay: when 14 or 15 rooms is too much. This 10-bedroom 10-bathroom mansion offers luxury suites for friends and families. Including a private home theater, swimming pool, lazy river, game room, abundant patio space, an outdoor grill, full kitchen, dining room, and more.
Reunion Resort Community Trifecta Number 2: A brilliant idea from Reunion’s Director of Sales and Marketing to include a visit with the Golfzon Leadbetter Academy for IAGTO Golf Tour Operators. (International Association of Golf Tour Operators.) Yet another Union at Reunion. Golfzon Leadbetter Academy offers the very finest learning and practice facilities to help students build a lifelong game. Since 2018, under the Golfzon Group, Golfzon Leadbetter has further expanded its operation to 36 academy locations in 15 countries and as well as developing new technology to make golf easier to learn. The crown jewel and headquarters for the Leadbetter Academies is Reunion Resort. It has been synonymous with world-class instruction for nearly 40 years, developing 26 Major winners and 7 World number 1 players, many of whom trained and perfected their skills at its Academy Headquarters in Central Florida. www.GolfzonLeadbetter.com With Reunion Resort as a long time IAGTO Member, Golfzon Leadbetter academies with a worldwide presence, it was a natural union for Golfzon Leadbetter to become a part of IAGTO and have the opportunity to work with over 630 worldwide golf tour operators who undoubtably have clients that might like to improve their golf skills while on vacation. The 630+ golf tour operators are from 65 countries and are responsible for approximately 90% of golf vacations sold worldwide. 324 operators from 48 countries deliver golfers to play in North America.
It goes without saying that the golf, with 3 Signature Courses by Legends of the game, Nicklaus, Watson and Palmer is outstanding. The resort encompassing over 2,300 acres is located in Kissimmee Florida is a short drive from Disney World and even offers shuttle service for its guests. On property you will also find a 5-acre Water Park, 7 Community Pools, a Fitness center, tennis and Pickleball Courts, mini golf, playgrounds, bike rentals and 7 restaurants and bars to satisfy any pallet. The Courses The Palmer Course might be my favorite of the 3, as a self-confessed Palmer design fan, I always find them very playable, any trouble is always visible. There is always plenty of risk / reward with large greens and nothing to crazy
to them. At Reunion the course is spread out over hilly terrain, fun shots over big water and surprisingly some Florida elevation change. Jack Nicklaus Course is located about 10 minutes from the main resort. Might just be my 2nd favorite here. Generous landing areas off the tee, typical Nicklaus favorite holes, doglegs right, enormous waste bunkers and WOW factor water holes and long swampy bridge crossing. Par 3, 16th is a treat to look forward too! The Watson Course also features wideopen greens, rolling fairways, the strategy here is to stay out of the many strategicallyplaced bunkers. Know your game here, the course calls for well-calculated golf, if you are in the many bunkers, you know that it will put a premium on your short game. www.ReunionResort.com
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Travel
Hunting Birdies on the Island that “Has It All” W By CLAUDIO DEMARCHI
hen it comes to golf in the Caribbean you won’t find anything that comes close to the Dominican Republic. (Part 1) Some 86 holes that provide ocean views amongst those a plethora of holes that provide daily ocean mists to tantalize the spirits for the day. Part one will cover the two primary resorts, Casa de Campo and PGA Oceans 4, located in the proximity of La Romana on the southern seascape of the island, and just over an hour from Puntacana. With the breathtaking backdrop of the Caribbean, PGA Ocean’s 4 would be the lesser known of the 2 resorts, however a must stop on the southside of the island. The thought of playing ocean golf putts a smile on everyone’s face and there are 4 magnificent holes here. The fab 4 are impressive holes that border the Caribbean Sea, perfectly integrated into the native Caribbean flora, with coconut palms and the characteristic beach grape, white sand and cliff, which, at the same time, give the sensation of playing on the verdant links of Scotland. Beware the unseen wind blowing blowing through your!
Opening holes will quickly introduce you to the holes surrounded by lakes and beautiful waterfalls, a picturesque and calming Parkland-style setting. Desert style golf more to your liking, they have that too, a number of holes are carved out of rocks and sand while the entire property is surrounded by tropical forest. Impressive for its variety, diversity and cool modernity, the 18-hole course was masterfully built and designed by Maverick Golf. It is the second PGA golf course developed by Grupo Piñero, combining the area’s most striking elements while meeting its main goal: the enjoyment of all golfers. PGA Ocean´s 4 has a total of 27 holes distributed into two spectacular golf courses; one 18-hole par 72, for intermediate and advanced level players, and another 9-hole short par 27, ideal for children and beginners. A couple of great options for accommodations, and you know you are in good hands when you are with Bahia Principe. The adults only Bahia Principe Luxury Bouganville is the perfect place to soak up some sun and consuming your adult beverages of choice while being pampered after golf. My kind of place!
Family vacation? They have you covered, Bahia Principe Grand La Romana, is ideal for that family vacation, a peaceful oasis, with all the comforts your heart could desire. An idyllic setting that invites you to relax in its gorgeous bay. For more information: www.PGAOceans4.com The Grandaddy of Golf Resorts The granddaddy of golf resorts in the Dominican is without a doubt Casa de Campo Resort & Villa’s. Luxury in an exclusive gated community, a setting that has hosted discerning travellers and celebrities for over 50 years. Boasting three golf courses designed by the legendary Pete Dye, Teeth of the Dog is the #1 ranked course in the Caribbean. One of the most unique features of the resort is that every guest has their own golf cart for their stay and believe me that comes in very handy while trying to navigate the over 7,000 acres that await. Also available are resort shuttles for those who may want to visit the breathtaking replica of a 16th century Mediterranean village Altos De Chavon overlooking the Dye Fore course and the river of the same name. Other than the outstanding world class
Casa de CampoTeeth of the Dog
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PGA Oceans4 Course golf this might be my most favorite resort experience. Meticulously designed by Dominican architect, Jose Antonio Caro, and Italian master designer and cinematographer, Roberto Coppa, every detail of Altos de Chavón was handcrafted by local artisans. The village is a cultural center for residents, tourists, and working artists from all over the world. Active studios for artists of every medium from pottery to weaving, silk screening, and everything in between line the cobblestone streets alongside shops and boutiques showcasing their unique creations. The Art Gallery features works from noted Dominican artists, as well as artists from around the world which helps to foster a dialogue of creativity and cultural exchange. Everything offered at Casa de Campo is world class, yours to enjoy is the stunning Minitas Beach Club, a Marina, Equestrian Center featuring Polo, Shooting Course, great shopping, and 3 private pristine white sand beaches. Restaurants are also second to none, and yes you can also dine up top at Altos De Chavon, one of my favorites there is La Piazzetta with its selection of Italian classics. Waterside favorites include Minitas Beach Club with its sweeping views of the Caribbean and the Spanish inspired La Casita located within the marina complex, watch as the sun sinks from the sky into the calm ocean beyond. What More Can One Add to the Golf……
When you have accolades like these…… and there are probably many more non golf related. Teeth of the Dog: Ranked No. 7 in GOLF Magazine’s Top 100 Courses You Can Play 2020-2021 Teeth of the Dog: Ranked No. 59 in GOLF Magazine’s Top 100 Courses in the World Teeth of the Dog: Ranked #27 in World’s 100 Greatest Courses outside the U.S., by Golf Digest Best Caribbean Golf Course/ Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo (ranked #2) By USA Today 10 There are 3 fabulous Pete Dye Golf Course a casa de Campo, but any way you slice it golfers are coming to play the world renowned and breathtaking ocean holes on Teeth of the Dog, and those holes keep them coming back year after year! Dye did a masterful job carving from the rugged rock and coral and he loved his work here so much that you will find a plaque on one of his favorite holes that denotes that somewhere around this green his ashes are buried. Just so happens I made my first birdie of the year on this par 4, second shot into a deep grassy swale, lofted a 1 hop wedge into the hole. You will know it when you get there. Thanks’ Pete! Not to be discounted are the other holes that make up Teeth of the Dog. There is plenty of sand, a few lava rock formations and strategically placed ponds for you to
deal with throughout the round. 27 Holes to Dye Fore Not nearly as popular as the Teeth, but definitely a really, really great golf course. We expect nothing less from Dye. The Dye Fore Course is about a 15-minute ride from the main resort, high above the Chavron River and eyelevel to Altos de Chavon. 3 very different nines await. The Chavron and Marina nines are the original 2, with the Lagos nine being added in 2011. Ocean views here are from afar, but the golf course drama continues as you navigate the cliffs along the Chavron nine, with views from some 300 feet above and the jungle below. The Marina course 4th and 5th holes are most memorable guiding you down to the mouth of the river with views of the Marina. There are some that will say the Dye Fore is the better of the 2 tracks at Casa de Campo. A testament to just how good it is. For my money you can’t compare the WOW Factor of playing on the rugged shores of the Caribbean. Any way you cut it; Casa de Campo is a World Class “Bucket list” experience. For more information on Stay and Play at Casa de Campo: www.CasaDeCampo.com.do
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Gettin’ Golf Rich in Puerto Rico
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he embarrassment of riches that is Puerto Rico golf isn’t embarrassing at all. Enchanting, sure. Enthralling, certainly. Entertaining? Incredibly so. First, don’t stress digging up that passport. U.S. citizens don’t need one to fly here, and many don’t need to stress on missing a flight connection either, since there El Conquistador Resort are many non-stop options daily to San Juan’s Luis Munoz design, price, and terrain types. They range Airport. from rolling mountain foothills and panSecond, ditch the Spanish-learning app. oramic ocean view settings, to modest valuePuerto Rico is bilingual pretty much wher- priced courses and luxurious high-end resort ever you tee it up or lay your head. And style golf authored by premier architects like those American greenbacks “speak” clearly Rees Jones, Greg Norman, Gary Player, throughout the island. Tom Kite, and Robert Trent Jones I and Third, make sure you carve out enough II. There’s truly something for everyone. time to go deep into the island’s impressive The bounty begins moments after you golf reserves, because the payoffs in playabil- step off the plane in San Juan, with comity, challenge, hospitality, scenery, value and bined 10 golf courses and 171 holes in and memorability are vast and lasting. around the vibrant capital. Other highPuerto Rico courses are diverse in their quality courses abound in the west and
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Golfing Golfing Magazine Magazine •• Fall Fall Travel Travel Issue Issue
south – there are 18 total – boasting everything from beachfront to lush green mountain surroundings. Let’s hit an early high note at The St. Regis Bahia Beach in Rio Grande, home to Robert Trent Jones II’s perfect meeting of verdant fairways, dense vegetation and long, languid beach. The two finishing holes alone are worth the price of admission, and the community itself is a sustainability trendsetter — to date the island’s only goldcertified Audubon International Signature Sanctuary. Right next door is the Grand Reserve Golf Club, another must-play whether you’re staying at the adjacent Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico. Its Championship course features views of sandy beaches and turquoise ocean waves, a stunning
PGA Oceans4 Course
St. Regis Bahai Beach Golf Resort
backdrop to the PGA TOUR’s Puerto Rico Open, which comes around every spring. The 9-hole International course is perfect for that sunset hour emergency round with mountain vistas, palm trees and water features. Grand Wyndham Rio Mar Golf & Casa de CampoTeeth of the Dog Beach Resort, Palmas Athletic Club/Wyndham Grand Palmas Resort, Rio Bayamon, and Grand Reserve fill out the close-to-San Juan dance card, and all but Rio Bayamon — a value-priced municipal course that is fun and affordable —are resort courses. The magic continues as you make your way east 40 minutes to El Conquistador Resort, home to a fine Arthur Hills layout that rocks and rolls over barrancas and dramatic hills. Rack up a couple nights at the hotel itself, take a funicular ride down for a cocktail on the water’s edge, and save some time for a nighttime canoe trip into a nearby bioluminescent bay, where microscopic creatures set the water aglow with every paddle stroke.
Now would be a good time to double back to San Juan. Spend a night or two there soaking up the fun and nightlife including a hand or two of blackjack at one of the city’s casinos, a tour of the Bacardi distillery, some judicious bar-hopping (this is where the piña colada was born and great rums abound), and supping on incredible homegrown cuisine. Consider carving out half a day for a hike among waterfalls and wildlife in nearby El Yunque National Forest. Heading toward the island’s northwest, the first stop en route is TPC Dorado Beach (East and Sugarcane courses), other Trent Jones II winners that mix holes on the ocean’s edge with others the wind inland through dramatic terrain. (To play at Dorado Beach, golfers must be a member or stay at the property’s Ritz-Carlton Reserve, an award-winning luxury resort.) Complete your visit to the Northwest by exploring popular public courses like El Deportivo near Mayaguez and historic Punta Borinquen Golf Club, where President
Dwight D. Eisenhower often played, enjoying sea views from almost every hole. Then there’s Royal Isabela, a luxury boutique resort set high above the Atlantic Ocean and some of the most coveted waves in the western hemisphere — 10 world surfing championships have played out there. Royal Isabela’s holes bordering the coast are truly breathtaking. Get your camera, and your best cliff-clearing swing, ready to fire on the incredible par 3 17th hole. Finally, make the turn to the island’s south coast for some Caribbean-facing fun. Costa Caribe is a 27-hole layout with a beach club, casino, and a variety of lodging options in Ponce – Pearl of the South – that runs along the ocean, while El Legado is an easy drive east bordering the coast to Guayama. It was originally designed, built and owned by Puerto Rico golf legend Chi Chi Rodriguez. www.DiscoverPuertoRico.com
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Travel
Mesquite, Nevada
Where Golf Meets Perfection
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estled in the northeast region of the enchanting Mojave Desert lies an oasis of golfing perfection. Located just 80 miles north of Las Vegas, this hidden gem offers an abundance of world-class golf courses, all set against a backdrop of more than 300 days of glorious sunshine each year. Mesquite’s allure extends far beyond its inviting climate. It’s a destination that boasts designs from legends like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus and endless breathtaking views, prompting even the most camera shy golfer to constantly reach for the iPhone and capture the stunning desert landscape vistas. “We have most certainly become known for our golf and people come from all over to play our courses,” says Mesquite Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Carol Kolson. “There aren’t many golf destinations that have so many quality courses in such close proximity to each other. Our guests really love the fact that it’s easy to get around and play multiple courses without having to spend much time at all in
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Golfing Magazine Magazine •• Fall Fall Travel Travel Issue Issue Golfing
the signature tee shot, serving as the highest point on the course at 11 stories, and to get there you must climb 90 granite steps. Eureka Casino Resort, situated at the heart of Mesquite, provides golfers with the perfect home base for their Mesquite adventure, as it sits within a 10-minute drive of seven Mesquite courses and has an exclusive stay-and-play package deal with Wolf Creek. This 60-acre resort, with a Coyote Springs Golf Club heated pool area and 214 guest rooms and suites, offers panoramic views of crimson their car going from course to course.” mesas, and a wide range of amenities, including Perhaps, the crown jewel of the entire golf900 of the hottest slot machines, as well as table ing experience in Mesquite in Wolf Creek Golf games, the city’s only Stadium Gaming experiClub, a name familiar to X-Boxers as it was a ence and an inviting William Hill Sportsbook, featured course on the EA Sports Tiger Woods the best venue in Mesquite for watching and and Rory McIlroy PGA TOUR video games. betting on sports after stowing the clubs away. Wolf Creek, which ranked No. 3 on Golfweek’s Eureka’s signature steakhouse, Gregory’s 2023 “Best Courses You Can Play” in Nevada Mesquite Grill, is famous for its succulent list, doesn’t waste any time getting the blood steaks, kissed by the flames of a Mesquite wood flowing, both literally and figuratively. The grill, and seafood starters, such as the Shrimp 445-yard, par-4, second hole may very well be
PGA Oceans4 Course Oasis Canyons “Rockefeller” Style and the irresistible Seared Ahi Tuna. “It’s not an overstatement to say that we may have one of the best locations in America for golfers looking to stay and play in such close proximity to so many top-tier golf courses,” says CEO Andre Carrier of Eureka Casino Resort, which opened in 1997 and was sold to its employees in 2015, making it the only hospitality company in the country to be 100% employee-owned. “That said, our team members do everything we can to cater to golfers’ needs so when they come back from their round they have a
Wolf Creek Golf Club
comfortable and friendly atmosphere to hit the tables, play some slots, watch the action in our William Hill sportsbook and grab a meal at our steakhouse that we strongly believe is one of the best culinary experiences in the region.” Conestoga Golf Club, another awe-inspiring layout within that 10-minute radius of Eureka Casino Resort, ranked sixth on the Golfweek Best-Of Nevada list, which is no small feat considering the quality and quantity of options in the Silver State. The other five courses – The Palmer, Falcon Ridge, The Canyons, Casablanca Golf Club and The Palms – each have their own unique charm and, like Wolf
Creek, can accommodate any level of golfer, as long as you play from the proper tees. For those that want to venture a bit further away from central Mesquite, St. George – home to five of the most highly acclaimed courses in Utah – is less than an hour drive away to the east. The Championship Course at Sand Hollow Golf Resort was ranked the No. 2 “Best Course You Can Play” in Utah by Golfweek and is known for its rousing back nine, particularly holes 11 through 15. The 230-yard, par 3, 15th is called Devil’s Throat and, trust us, the name is more than fitting. About 50 miles east of Mesquite, is the Coyote Springs Golf Club, a Nicklaus masterpiece where the red mesa views are replaced by a sea of green valleys. If you are heading to or from Las Vegas when visiting Mesquite, Coyote Springs serves as a fine mid-way point of the journey, or a convenient spot to tee it up on arrival and/or getaway day. Because of its optimal climate, Mesquite is also a highly sought-out destination for other unique and captivating outdoor activities, including hiking, skydiving, or making a short drive to some of the most iconic spots in the U.S., such as Cathedral Gorge, Bryce Canyon, Zion and Grand Canyon National Parks, and Valley of Fire State Park. But above all, Mesquite, once known as “the fastest growing city in America,” has undoubtedly cemented itself as a destination where you want to bring your clubs and enjoy a golf experience unlike anywhere else in the country.
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Travel
Enjoy an Escape to Cape Cod By MARK WILLIAM PAUL
I
had the opportunity recently to be invited in a trip to find out about Cape Cod golf and other experiences on the Cape. I met with Patti Lloyd, Senior Vice President of Sales at Cape Cod’s Chamber of Commerce, at the start of the visit. The first course we played was Blue Rock Golf Course ( www.BlueRockGolfCourse.com )in South Yarmouth, a par-54, Geoffrey Cornish design. It measures from 2,150 to 2,800 yards from five different sets of tee boxes. The course was built in 1962 and has been consistently ranked in the Top 10 executive courses in the country. From the manicured tee boxes to the meticulously maintained greens, Blue Rock would be an excellent choice if you are looking for a course to work on improving your irons and short game. The top handicap hole is number, playing at a robust 255 yards from the tips. Hole number 9 is rated one of the Cape’s Top 18 holes, playing 170 yards from the back markers. The hole requires the experienced player to navigate a well-placed tee shot over water to a large, undulating
The Captains Course in Brewster, MA kidney shaped green. Par on this hole is a great score. For those golfers who prefer to take a cart the course offers an easy walk through picturesque landscaping. Dennis Pines Golf Course ( www.DennisGolf.com ), a Henry Mitchell design, focuses more on accuracy than dis-
tance. Built in 1966, the course winds its way through the pine forest of East Dennis. The 8th hole plays a long 487 yards from the tips and is the number one handicap hole on the course. Par here is challenging but rewarding to those who can achieve that goal. The par-71 Dennis Highlands Golf
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Kings Way Golf Club in Yarmouthport, MA
Course (www.DennisGolf.com), opened in 1984, was designed by Mike Hurdzan and Jack Kidwell. As with Dennis Pines, the course features large multi-tiered undulating greens that will challenge anyone’s putting skills. The sweeping panoramic views offer the golfer breathtaking images of wild flowers and landscaping. Due to the fact that winters are relatively mild on the Cape, both courses stay open year round for play. The Highlands Restaurant is an excellent choice for those who wish to enjoy a beverage and a delicious sandwich either before or after the round. Food choices are plentiful and mouth watering and the libations were ice cold. Prices were extremely reasonable and the serving sizes are ample. Bayberry Hills Golf Course (www.GolfYarmouth.com ) located in West Yarmouth, is a premium 27-hole championship layout. Designed by Geoffrey Cornish
and Brian Silva, the track opened in the summer of 1988. Verdant lush grass, meticulously groomed, along with wide fairways and large undulated greens make it a unique and serene experience for the golfer. Multiple tee boxes allow for the perfect choice for players of all skill levels. A particular local favorite is hole number 4, the only water hole on the course. It plays 400-plus yards and features a large pond, fescue, bunkering and large trees that protect the green from errant shots. The “links” 9-hole course, opened in 1999, has a total opposite feel of the 18-hole track, with rolling hills and fescue lined fairways. Here you will find shorter par-fours and a couple of long par-fives. Other courses to sample on Cape Cod include The Captains Golf Course (www.CaptainsGolfCourse.com) in Brewster features 36 holes of golf on two very distinct 18-hole layouts. The club calls
itself the Cape’s premier public golf facility, and the conditioning here is always excellent, the golf challenging but approachable for players of all abilities. The Port Course plays to a yardage of 6,724 yards and has a slope of 131 and a rating above its posted par of 72, which gives an indication of the difficulty of some of the holes. One of the best holes is the 573-yard, par-five eighth. A pond guards the putting surface and there are several large fairway bunkers to complicate matters. The Starboard Course plays around 6,800 yards and has a slope of 122. It’s a bit more “player friendly” than its sister layout, with wider fairways, large greens, and fewer bunkers than the Port Course, which makes it more suitable for mid- and higher handicap players. Number 18 is a great finishing hole, a 534-yard par-five that can be reached in two by big hitters. www.GolfingMagazine.net 31
Travel Kings Way Golf Club ( w w w. K i n g s Wa y G C . c o m ) is located within the Kings Way community on the historic north side of Cape Cod’s village of Yarmouth Port. The golf course plays to a par of 60 featuring spectacular elevating changes, Scottish bunkers, and undulating greens. The course is welcoming to golfers of all levels. Being an “executive” style layout it allows you to enjoy some golf and get off the course and on to all the other activities on the Cap in quick order. Looking for lodging during your stay? The Aiden by Best Western hotel, managed by Brenda Smith, is conveniently located in Yarmouth on Route 28. Rates are very reasonable and include a continental breakfast for their guests. The rooms are spacious and clean. Stay and Play golf packages are available. Check their website www.bestwestern.com/aiden/west-yarmouth for more information. If you’re looking to spend quality time with the family after your round give Ryan’s Family Amusement Center a visit. Located
Dennis Pines Golf Course, Dennis, MA 32
Golfing Magazine • Fall Travel Issue
nearby in South Yarmouth, they offer an arcade, axe throwing, candlepin and ten pin bowling and video games, all at affordable pricing. This is a family owned business with 10 locations to choose from. Want lunch or dinner at a true Cape Cod local landmark? Try Captain Parker’s Pub in West Yarmouth. They are known for
their creamy New England style clam chowder and fish sandwiches. The fish and chips were outstanding as well. They offer a full bar menu and local craft beers for the thirsty traveler. Thanks to Golfing Magazine’s comprehensive Course Play Stimulus Program, our subscribers can try out a number of courses on Cape Cod. Check out the details of this can’t miss offer in this issue. Call 860-563-1633, or visit www.FreeGolf.net to sign up. The mild days and cool nights on Cape Cod during autumn keep golf course turf green and lush, even after the hot summer we had. There is perhaps not a better place to play the game we love at this time of year than on this peninsula on the southeastern tip of the Bay State. So, put the sticks in the car and head to Cape Cod this fall for a truly spectacular visit.
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