Plans 2 Travel

AFRICA

Leopard Creek
This Gary Player-designed course has been voted South Africa`s No. 1 on several occasions. It is located near Malelane, where the year-round temperate climate is ideal for golf. The par-72, 6600-yard (from the yellow boxes) Leopard Creek course is bordered to the north and west by the scenic Crocodile River and Kruger National Park.

USA

Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island is best remembered for the “War on the Shore” Ryder Cup of 1991, in which Bernhard Langer`s missed 6-foot putt on the last green allowed the USA to regain the Cup. Kiawah Island offers 5 challenging golf courses in a beautiful natural setting near historic Charleston, South Carolina. Non-golfers can enjoy tennis, kayaking and nature tours.

ASIA

Gokarna Forest, Kathmandu, Nepal
Nepal is probably an unconsidered holiday destination for most golfers. However, the par-72, 6287-yard Gokarna course is well worthy of consideration. Meandering through a sanctuary of untouched forest, hills and valleys, with the snow-capped Himalayas as a backdrop, Gokarna will challenge even the best players.

NEW ZEALAND

Formosa Golf Course, Auckland
Designed by professional Bob Charles, the Formosa course, at 7200 yards from the back tees, presents a formidable challenge for the best golfers. From the more forward tees, it is suitable for golfers of all abilities.
With the stunning backdrop of Hauraki Gulf, sixteen holes offer wonderful water views, with holes 11 to 16 on a cliff top. Non-golfing facilities include tennis courts and an indoor swimming pool.

CARIBBEAN

The White Witch Golf Course, Rose Hall, Jamaica
This par-71, 6,859-yard golf course is considered one of the best in the Caribbean. It winds through the mountains, with colourful foliage and 16 holes offering panoramic views of the Caribbean.

EUROPE

Meridien Penina, Portugal
Situated on Portugal`s spectacular southern coast, in the heart of the Algarve, near the historic town of Lagos, Meridien Penina offers 3 Henry Cotton-designed courses. The par-73 Championship Course is widely considered the grandfather of Algarve golf courses.

ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT

Golf Clubs
Unbelievably, many golfers actually arrive at their holiday destination without their clubs. Be certain to clean them beforehand, as this will provide a psychological boost on arrival at the course. Additionally, the purchase of a good quality flight bag is recommended, to prevent damage in transit.

Golf Shoes
Comfortable golf shoes are nearly as important as clubs for a successful golfing holiday. Many holiday golf destinations require players to wear “soft” spikes on the course. Purchase these beforehand to save time and inconvenience on arrival. Whatever the state of current footwear, do not be tempted to buy new shoes for a golf holiday. These will inevitably spoil the trip by causing painful blisters.

Golf Balls
A golfer`s favourite brand of ball may not be available at the holiday destination, so it is a good idea to make sure the bag is well stocked for the duration of the vacation.

Miscellaneous
Sunburn and dehydration are major hazards to golfers in warmer climates and can certainly spoil holiday golf. Sun tan lotion, with a high protection factor and sun block, for nose and lips, are definitely recommended. A wide brimmed hat or cap will keep the worst of the sun of the face and is essential for the golfer who is going a little “thin on top.” It is also wise to carry a couple of bottles of water, to keep hydrated during a round. A decent pitchmark repairer is a good idea, as any club will appreciate a visitor caring for its course and avoiding leaving ball marks on the greens. Holiday golfers are also advised to take a selection of golf towels. These will prove useful for cleaning balls and keeping grips and hand free of sweat. Rain is possible in even the warmest climates, so decent-quality rainwear is recommended. Plasters (for blisters) and painkillers, such as aspirin and paracetamol, are also worthwhile inclusions in a holiday golf bag.

Prepare holiday golf equipment well in advance of the trip, to avoid a last-minute rush, which inevitably results in something being overlooked. This approach will leave any golfer relaxed and confident upon arrival at the course, able to compare golf notes and glean valuable information from local players.

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