Finding the Right Place for Your Next Golf Trip

The three most important factors in determining the right place for your group golf getaway are akin to the traditional turn of phrase used by real estate sales experts, “location, location, location”. Perhaps better put, our manta should be “destination, destination, destination”!

Choosing where you and your group vacation involves a number of critical factors. Consider your group’s desired “golf trip experience”, then select a destination that offers what you need to make this experience reality.

How much time do you have for this “time-of-a-lifetime” trip?
If you only have a few days, choosing a not-so-far-away drive-to destination will give you and your group the maximum time to drive the course. If ample time is available for your trip, fly somewhere exotic and historic or “in the middle of nowhere” for a real wow factor. Just make sure everyone’s passport is in order ahead of time.

How much moola do you want to spend per person?
Get everyone on board with the budget. Are you going on the cheap? Just need something moderately-priced and affordable? Or, are you looking for the no-holds-barred, super-expensive, high-end golf extravaganza? If money is an issue, look for off-season rates and bundled, all-inclusive packages for the biggest savings.

Setting up individual, direct-to-the destination payments for group members will save you time and personal out-of-pocket expense. No group leader wants to collect money or nag folks for money when payments are late.

What kind of golfers are in your group?
Serious players who want to maximize the amount of daily play would fare well at a multi-course resort where up to 36 holes can be played per day, ideally with the second round on a different course from the first and at a replay rate. Get the most golf in the least amount of time with easy accessibility to courses, lodging, dining and evening entertainment on-site. A group that wants to party, with a little golf on the side, is best suited for a more metropolitan location or a casino destination where rounds with mid-day start times leave plenty of time after golf for cocktails, dining, late-night entertainment and all night card games with time to sleep in the next day before hitting the links again. A golf and spa resort escape is a great idea for groups looking to destress with a bit of leisurely outdoor exercise and indoor rest and relaxation. Got non-golfers in your group? Be sure the destination you choose can keep them busy with activities they enjoy such as tours, shopping, spa treatments and more.

You also need to know what kind of golf your group wants to play. Are they looking for quality or quantity? Do you have a combination of high and low handicappers and want to mix up the courses in terms of difficulty? Is it a turn-on to play legendary courses that honor the rules, history and tradition of the game? Want to play where the pros play, challenge your game or improve your game? Is perfect weather important or do you have a diehard group willing to brave the elements for the ultimate golf experience? Are you looking for breathtaking waterfront or mountain scenery, or just want to try something new?

What are your group’s needs off the course?
Some groups require luxurious overnight accommodations, complete with high-end amenities and services. Others just want a simple place to crash between rounds. Whatever your group’s requirements, if you’ve got a combination of early risers and late night party animals, be sure separate them in terms of room assignments. Be sure to check out the on-site dining and meal plan options, plus access to food local markets or grocery and libations delivery services for stocking your hospitality suite.

Regardless of the rating, be sure to choose a facility that welcomes groups (especially if they are rowdy buddies trips) with open arms. And inquire about perks offered for the group and group leader like a welcome reception, free nights based on the group size and length of stay, replay rounds, range balls, as well as the availability of an on-site group concierge or tournament organizer.

Want to be named “Group Golf Trip Leader of the Year”?
To guarantee the success of any group golf trip, simply take the time to get to know the individuals in your group and their expectations before you research and book your trip. When the trip is over and everyone votes to repeat the experience, you know you’ve done a great job…and that you’ll be asked to organize the trip again next year.

Featured Photo:  Harbour Town Golf Links – www.SeaPines.com