How to choose the best course for your golf getaway

Does your dream vacation involve hitting the links? With a bit of planning, you can make golf the central component of your next trip. Here are the factors to zero in on when selecting the perfect spot for your upcoming holiday.

• The surroundings. For many, the beauty of the course and its natural surroundings are essential to having a great golf holiday. Think about the particular type of weather and terrain you most appreciate and plan accordingly.

• The difficulty. Even if it’s the most stunning course you’ve ever played on, you probably won’t enjoy yourself if you need to take too many extra strokes. Look at the course and slope ratings to determine the level of difficulty.

The course rating is the score the average scratch golfer shoots on the course. The course slope indicates a course’s difficulty for a bogey golfer. It ranges from 55 (very easy) to 155 (very difficult), with 113 representing a standard level of difficulty.

• The price point. A golf trip can be planned and executed on any budget. The most affordable options tend to be golf packages that include accommodations, green fees and sometimes club storage, cart rental, driving range access and deals on dining.

• The extras. Since you can’t spend the entire day golfing, it’s a good idea to find out what else the area has to offer. For instance, you might opt to stay at a resort with an outdoor swimming pool and spa. Or you might select a golf course near a town where there’s lots to do. These are especially important considerations if there are non-golfers among your travel companions.

Once you find the course you’re looking for, make sure to book your holiday well in advance. You aren’t the only one dreaming of a golf getaway!

Let’s not forget about our own great courses here in Warren County.