Andaman golf - As close to a golfing paradise here on earth

CONTENT

PLAYING YOUR BEST IN PHUKET

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BOGEY FREE IN KRABI

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PUTTING AND SWINGING IN PHANG NGA

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RANONG NATURALLY INSPIRING

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TRANG THE UNDISCOVERED HIDEAWAY

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ANDAMAN GOLF AS CLOSE TO A GOLFING PARADISE HERE ON EARTH

Ever dream of playing golf in Paradise? If you were like most avid golfers you would have once dreamt of taking a golfing holiday where you can play round after round in championship courses day after day. Well then, look no further and live out your dream in Thailand.

Diversity and the vast choice of golf courses located throughout the country are key factors attracting the large numbers of visitors coming to play golf in Thailand. With modern facilities, internationally designed golf courses, and an excellent infrastructure, the availability of golf has developed significantly in Thailand.

This has been evidenced by the World Golf Travel Agents Association recently awarding Thailand the ‘Best up and coming destination’ for golf vacations. Thailand has some of the regions best courses designed by legends of the game offering challenges for the pro golfer and budding amateurs alike.

Consistent sunshine makes golf in the Andaman provinces the ideal choice for a golf vacation or group outing.

And if you want to couple your golfing with some sea, sand and sun head to the south of Thailand, particularly the Andaman provinces of Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga, Ranong and Trang. Courses are located in highly accessible areas with fast and convenient door-to-door transfers possible providing visitors with a vast choice for planning a golf holiday.

Every conceivable golf facility is within easy reach from the pristine beaches and world class resorts. From pro-shops to golf clinics, driving ranges and golf courses contained within a resort and as standalone facilities, the golfer will surely think he’s in paradise.

Consistent sunshine makes golf in the Andaman provinces the ideal choice for a golf vacation or group outing.

Phuket in particular regularly host world-class tournaments. There is no winter season to limit play, just yearround blue skies and warm weather. An average year round temperature of 27째C means the grass is always green and you can play golf practically 365 days a year.

PLAYING YOUR BEST IN PHUKET

Phuket is known internationally as one of the most exotic destinations in Southeast Asia. With its endless white beaches, cooling blue lagoons and tropical mountainous interior, it provides a stunning and glorious image of a golfing paradise on earth, providing an ideal backdrop for a fantastic holiday. The island has its fair share of facilities, from golf resorts, to stand alone courses, golf schools and driving ranges.

Listed below are courses that can be found in Phuket.

The island has its fair share of facilities, from golf resorts, to stand alone courses, golf schools and driving ranges.

BLUE CANYON COUNTRY CLUB The Blue Canyon Country Club offers hospitality on par with the club’s world-class golf courses. At the sophisticated boutique Golfers Spa Lodge, each of the 32 spacious and elegant rooms and suites features all the facilities needed to prepare you for your round of golf or to help you relax after an exhilarating day out. The lavishly-appointed resort apartments and villas nestle peacefully amidst the surrounding natural landscape. Designed with total privacy in mind, the units are nevertheless within easy reach of the club house and all facilities.

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The Canyon Course is a challenge to golfers of every level. Some might say that beginners to the game will struggle around this Championship level course, but in all honesty, you can’t visit Phuket to play golf and not try out on the Canyon Course. Blending the scenic canyons with the essence of Phuket’s tin-mining past, the course is fundamentally tree-lined with challenging doglegs, which means every shot needs to be precise. The course has 18 holes with a 72 par, set over a distance of 7,179 yards from the black tees, and 6,664 yards from the blue tees. Not only does the course have tight landing areas, but there are also 80 bunkers and water hazards on 14 of the holes.

The Lakes Course is an exciting challenge for golfers of all abilities, and as the name suggests, has waterladen hazards at every turn. Set over 18 holes with a 72 par, there are 5 sets of different tee placements to choose from, which gives the holes diversity and depth, so every time you play the Lakes, the experience is a little different.

One of the great features of this course is the large fairways that do much to counterbalance the water hazards, so if you hit the ball straight, you should have no problem at all, which is wishful thinking of course!

165, Moo 1, Thepkasattri Rd., Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)76 328 088 E-mail Contact : reservation@bluecanyonclub.com

LAGUNA PHUKET GOLF CLUB Phuket’s only resort-based 18 hole, par 71 golf course. Designed by Max Wexler and David Abell, measures 6,654 yards from the back tees and 5,464 yards from the forward tees. The course is a challenge for golfers of all skill levels as it winds its way through a vast array of lagoons and undulating fairways providing the golfer the opportunity to take chances or make precision shots with just the right iron. While not as demanding as some of the other courses, this course offers some interesting challenges requiring strategic club and iron choices.

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The golf academy at the course offers state-of-the-art video analysis along with practical teaching aids in a relaxed, fun environment. The club’s British PGA Qualified Professionals are available 7 days a week to provide instruction to golfers of all experience and ability levels.

34 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Rd., Cherngtalay,Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)76 324 350 E-mail contact : golf@lagunaphuket.com

LOCH PALM GOLF CLUB Located in the centre of the island just 10 minutes from Phuket Town or Patong Beach the course nestles below a panoramic range of peaks, and is sandwiched between the Kathu Waterfall and Kathu Village.

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The layout surrounds the largest lake on any golf course in Phuket, Crystal Lake, a massive 48 acres in size. This is an 18 hole, par 72, 6,555 yard, palm tree-lined beauty that has recently completed major re-designs and renovation upgrades.

38 Moo 5 Vichitsongkram Rd., Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand.

Tel. : +66 (0)76 321 929-34 E-mail Contact : info@lochpalm.com

MISSION HILLS PHUKET GOLF RESORT & SPA Nestled amongst rubber plantations and coastal mangrove forests in the north of the island, just 10 minutes from Phuket International Airport.

Measuring a challenging 6,806 yards from the back tees or a more accommodating 6,308 from the front, this 18 hole, par 72 course is a popular choice with the occasional player and high handicappers alike.

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The convenient location, luxurious facilities and championship golf, all combine to make Mission Hills a sought-after, world-class golf destination.

195 Moo 4 Pa Khlok, District Thalang, Phuket 83110 Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)76 310 888, E-mail contact : info@missionhillsphuket.com

PHUKET COUNTRY CLUB This 20 year old, 18 hole, par 72 course has matured into its surroundings, offering golfers a picturesque and rewarding experience, popular with high handicappers due to its large and forgiving fairways. Low handicappers can also enjoy the courses from the Championship tees over a total distance of 6,484 yards.

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With a variety of holes with undulating fairways with lots of mature trees, alongside a large lake and plenty of bunkers, the course is neat, tidy and well maintained. The scenic landscapes through the jungle terrain are stunning.

80 Moo 7 Vichitsongkram Rd., Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand.

Tel. : +66 (0)76 319 200 E-mail Contact : info@phuketcountryclub.com

PHUNAKA GOLF COURSE This exceptional floodlit 9 holes golf course, complete with driving range and golf academy present challenges and rewards for players of all levels. Just a short drive from Phuket Town and the island’s beaches, Phunaka Golf Crouse is set within area of the most beautifully lush and green landscaped grounds. The course itself is ground breaking and is a great challenge for all levels of play. It provides a great learning experience for beginners and a chance to practice all shapes of shots for advanced players.

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The on-site Phunaka Golf Academy features by far the best driving range on the. The most spectacular 330 yard, 56 bay driving range is designed to simulate real golf course play that covers everything from short chip to the full drive.

61/17-19 Moo 6, Soi Chaofa 73, Chaofa West Rd., Muang District, Phuket 83000 Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)76 521 991-5 ass.gm@phunakagolf.com

RED MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB Winding its way through a truly dramatic former tin mine site in the heart of Phuket, Red Mountain is one of Asia’s most exciting new courses that officially opened in 2008. The course has been cleverly routed to take advantage of a huge variety of landforms and dizzying elevation changes. Scars left from the tin mine era have been imaginatively incorporated into the overall scheme, creating a unique character at the same time as establishing an indelible link with an important era in the Island’s past.

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While the course is undoubtedly challenging, numerous risk and reward options create a fun playing environment, an exhilarating test of golf and a breathtaking scenic tour around a course that has become a golfing landmark in the region.

119 Moo 4 Vichitsongkram Rd.,Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)76 322 000-1 E-mail Contact : info@redmountainphuket.com

BOGEY FREE IN KRABI

Krabi Town is a charming provincial capital located along the banks of a river that leads to the nearby Andaman Sea.

Krabi Province, which lies along the coast of the Andaman sea in Southern Thailand, is a top tourist destination as a result of its plentiful natural attractions including, white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, extensive coral reefs, numerous caves and waterfalls, and over 130 islands, including Koh Lanta and the jewels of the Andaman coast, the six islands of Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park. Krabi Town is a charming provincial capital located along the banks of a river that leads to the nearby Andaman Sea. Consequently, Krabi is an important port city for both local fisherman as well as boats ferrying visitors to the nearby attractions, including Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Railey Beach, one of the premier rock climbing destinations in the world. There are two golf courses in Krabi and both are a delight to play in.

PAKASAI COUNTRY CLUB Approximately 35 minutes from Ao Nang, one of the best 18 hole courses in Thailand is nestled amongst an exotic forest with beautiful lake views.

The course is surrounded by native forest and is situated on a secluded hill, overlooking the surrounding village.

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Pakasai Country Club which is a par 72, 6,573 yards from the back tees, has earned praise from golfers for its tricky fairways and fast undulating greens, in slightly hilly terrain, providing different levels of difficulty for golfers of all abilities.

Tambol Klongkanan, Nua Klong District, Krabi 81004 Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)86 810-3413 E-mail contact : info@pakasaicountryclub.com

SOFITEL KRABI PHOKEETHARA GOLF & SPA RESORT This beautiful self contained golf resort blends the dramatic beauty of with the French art de vivre.

Experience colonial elegance limestone cliffs L’Occitane spa treatments ancient sea caves and beachfront golf. The resort is famous for hosting the largest swimming pool in Thailand, covering over 7,000 square meters.

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Challenging fairways, diverse terrain and fabulous sea and mountain views reward golfers with an unforgettable game at 9 hole Phokeethra Golf Krabi.

Uniquely situated on the edge of the beautiful Klong Muang beach, and with terrain extending towards the foot of the Naga Head Mountain, P h o k e e t h r a G o l f K ra b i o f f e r s golfing amidst fabulous sea and mountain views. Golfers will be impressed by the dramatic natural beauty of Krabi on an exciting international-standard golf course.

200 Moo 3 T.Nongtalay, Muang District, Krabi 81000 Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)75 627 800 E-mail contact : rsvn@sofitelphokeethrakrabi.com

Phang Nga province is blessed with a variety of outstanding natural attractions including the stunning Phang Nga Bay, the idyllic Surin and Similan Islands, the sandy coast of Khao Lak. Phang Nga is a province equally renowned for its beautiful land, spectacular bay, and amazing islands; Phang Nga national parks feature magnificent scenery with immensely different attractions. Most famous is Phang Nga Bay National Park, a geological wonder filled with islets, sunken caverns, and startling rock formations rising vertically out of the sea. The bay is extremely sheltered and therefore ideal for expeditions on sea kayak that explore the many fascinating caverns and islands throughout the bay.

TUBLAMU NAVY COURSE This 18-hole , 6825 yard, par 72, course is located at the Royal Thai Navy Sport Development Centre, Tublamu, a couple of kilometers south of Khao Lak. (Tublamu is also the departure point for boats to the Similan islands). The course is owned by the Royal Thai Navy and was upgraded to 18 holes during the summer of 2002, at which time it was opened up for the public.

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This unique golf course is located and laid out at one of Khao Lak’s most beautiful sandy bays, Son-Ngam Beach with a background of the tropical rain forest hills of Khao Lak. The rich variety of birds and the lush vegetation provide a peaceful and relaxing experience.

98 Moo 5, Thai Muang District, Phang Nga 82210, Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)76 443 288 E-mail contact : info@golftublamunavy.com

RANONG NATURALLY INSPIRING

Ranong is also known for its hot springs and unspoiled mangrove forests and is an important major border crossing between Thailand and neighboring Myanmar.

Ranong province, one of the wettest in Thailand has a number of distinctive characteristics: The province features sixty-two islands, many fine beaches, unspoiled forests, and refreshing waterfalls, many of which are incorporated in national parks or wildlife sanctuaries.

Ranong is also known for its hot springs and unspoiled mangrove forests and is an important major border crossing between Thailand and neighboring Myanmar.

There is only 1 golf course in the province but it’s design and setting makes it a must on any golfer’s list.

RATTANA RANGSARN CAMP GOLF COURSE Rattanarangsarn Camp Golf Course is a small but fully equipped golf course. This nine-hole course is in the area of the army camp, but is open to the public. This scenic course is located on hilly ground, with several slopes to challenge golfers.

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Climbing uphill, you will be impressed with beautiful mountainous scenery and this will help elevate your game a notch.

33 Moo 1, T. Rachakroot, Muang District, Ranong, 85000, Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)77 862 246 E-mail contact : regt252@gmail.com

TRANG THE UNDISCOVERED HIDEAWAY

With an abundance of blissful attractions mixed with cultural heritage, Trang Province is truly a fascinating tourist destination with numerous jungles, mountains, waterfalls, and beaches. Additional attractions include the nearby Mu Koh Petra National Park, where idyllic beaches and islands are perfect places to enjoy the warm, clear waters of the Andaman Sea. There are also wildlife sanctuaries such as Namtok Khao Chong and Khlong Lamchan Park where waterfalls, nature trails, and caves are awaiting exploration.

For those looking for a relaxed, tranquil ambience, Trang is a perfect place to unwind amidst stunning scenery.

Trang Province is truly a fascinating tourist destination with numerous jungles, mountains, waterfalls, and beaches.

SRI TRANG GOLF COURSE The only golf course in Trang is the Sri Trang Golf Course, which is located in the Royal Thai Army camp. This 18 hole golf course measures 7,146 yards from the back tees and uses the natural landscape to create undulating fairways with gentle hills valleys.

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In addition to the challenging course, golfers will enjoy the beautiful scenery featuring the Nam Plai mountain range and natural growing rubber and palm trees.

Phraya Rasadanupradit Army Base, Huay Yod District, Trang 92190 Thailand Tel. : +66 (0)81 891 4907 E-mail contact : sritranggolf@trang-travel.com

SPECIAL THANKS Red Mountain Golf Club Loch Palm Golf Club Blue Canyon Country Club Phuket Country Club Laguna Phuket Golf Club Mission Hills Phuket Golf Resort & Spa Phunaka Golf Course Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Pakasai Country Club Tublamu Navy Course Rattanarangsarn Camp Golf Course Sri Trang Golf Course

PUBLISHED BY The Office of Stategy Management for Southern Province Cluster (Andaman) The Andaman Operation Center (2nd floor) Phuket Provincial Hall, Mueang, Phuket 83000 Thailand

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office