Thanks to the internet and the advent of sites like TripAdvisor, the circle of trust on travel advice has shifted from guidebooks and magazines to individual travelers that have experienced a destination for themselves. When our Members of the Forces return home, we are fortunate to receive a treasure trove of advice and feedback that is often a helpful supplement to the expertise shared by our travel planning team.
What follows are a few of these pearls of wisdom we call “Tips from The Troops.” All of which have been forwarded to The Major within the last 2 months.
“Try not to schedule too many courses. We scheduled a day off of golf in the middle and that made all the difference.”
~Mark Owen, Four Hills Country Club
“Avoid overpacking, leave extra time for layovers, and only play one course per day.”
~Mark Wilson, PGA. North Ranch Country Club.
Mark Wilson and his members just a few weeks ago at Ardglass Golf Club.
“Take advantage of the laundry services at the hotels and don’t pack as many clothes as I did.”
~Steve Fitzgerald, Shady Oaks Country Club
“Don’t skip the Cliffs of Moher.”
~Roger Dean, Coldstream Country Club
Mike Borislow of Huntingdon Valley Country Club and his Expeditionary Forces will likely agree with this advice.
“Get your legs in shape for the elevation changes in Ireland.”
~Charles Murphy, Gator Creek Golf Club
“Trust your caddies and don’t pre-judge lesser known courses. I loved Nairn and Lundin!”
~Dan Wood, Upstate Golf Club
Dan’s stunning Field Report from Lundin Golf Club.
“Bring your “A” game.”
~Richard Gaines, Oceanside Country Club
“An Under Armor long sleeve shirt for under your golf attire is a must-have for keeping warm.”
~Charles Burkett, Florida
“Driving on the left side of the road takes a bit of getting used to. Be careful, take it slow, and never opt for the manual shift car.”
~Larry Brattain, Lakewood Country Club
Having successfully navigated the roads of Scotland, Larry & Leigh Brattain enjoy the finest view in golf.
“Make every effort to mix with the locals. It’s amazing how much you can learn when you take the time to get to know the people. Above all else, keep the ball in the fairway.”
~Jay Kaiser, Kentucky
“Bring adequate pounds to tip caddies. They do not want dollars.”
~Randy Martina, Hamilton Elks Golf Club
“Make the trip to Machrihanish. Everyone there was great, and the course was so much fun to play. Our caddies were all former secretaries of the club. Pretty special stuff.”
~Jeff Corken, Summit Hills Country Club, Coldstream Country Club
Consider asking those in your group that would be willing to walk and carry their own bag to eliminate caddies double-bagging.
~Lindy Miller, Shady Oaks Country Club
Group Captain Miller and the members of Shady Oaks Country Club at Waterville.
H&B is a top notch organization. Ask, be specific, and if it’s within their power, they’ll get it for you.
~Lenny Berk, New York
“Don’t plan too many locations. We stayed at 3 hotels over 7 nights. Moving around less could be a good approach unless you are set on playing certain courses. Get caddies. They make the experience so much more enjoyable.”
~Jason Weyeneth, New York
“Consider how many days of consecutive golf you can play. For me, our trip may have been better if we inserted an “off” day in the middle of travel.”
~Gordon Rubinett, The Hills Country Club
“Don’t pack as much as we did. You end up buying something at most courses.”
~Chip Humphries, California
“It is great to see various locations and sights, but it’s also nice to limit drive time. Pay special attention to what you want to accomplish and the drive time there and back.”
~John Wood, Southern Trace Country Club
Captain John Wood and friends enjoying the sites of the Emerald Isle.
“Pray for good weather, and be prepared for the wind. Don’t overpack..Guys wear the same clothes more than once.”
~David Levine, Missouri
“Have a driver, stay in one place for at least 3 days, make the trip long enough to make the flying time worthwhile, and always take a caddie.”
~Brad Weaver, Highland Springs Village Golf Club
“A successful trip depends on the relationship between the group and the driver. We had the very best with H&B!”
~Bob Miles, Coral Creek Club
The remaining weeks of the 2015 golf travel season will no doubt yield many more “Tips from The Troops” which we will share in future posts. In the meantime, a poll from The Major…
What piece of advice would you share with someone set to depart on a golf expedition across the pond?
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