Scottish Golf Travel

If you have ever dreamed of someday taking a trip back to Scotland, the home of golf, and playing a few of those famous, windblown links courses that have stood here for centuries, you're not alone. There's probably not a golfer around who hasn't imagined themselves walking the hallowed grounds of St. Andrews, or pitting their abilities against tough Carnoustie or perhaps driving Muirfield's fabled fairways.

There's no other sport that provides its amateur devotees, no matter how modest their skills, the privilege of playing the very same arenas that have tested the best ever. Thoughts of following in the footsteps of the greatest names the game has ever known is enough to bring goose bumps to the flesh of even the toughest, but it's the dream of virtually every golfer.

For those who may not yet have savored the experience, you've been missing out on one of, if not the most exhilarating thrills this game can provide - Scottish golf is something very special. This is the way the game was supposed to be and once you have played a few of the traditional, blustery, Scottish links courses, nothing else will ever seem the same -- so why haven't you experienced it yet?

If you have been under the wrong impression that this dream golf trip to Scotland is likely to be a little too rich for your blood, it's time to think again. The cost today is far less than it has been for many years; in fact it's a bargain.

Our US dollar, after too many years of weakness, is now trading in its strongest ranges since 2001. Even a year ago it cost around $2.00 to buy a British pound, today the same British pound costs about $1.50. A 25% stronger dollar simply buys 25% more, but don't think for one minute that this will last forever. Those who specialize in foreign exchange trading seem to agree, the dollar's current strength is unlikely to last much beyond late 2009, when it is more than likely to start weakening again. Better to grab today's 25% benefit while it's there. And this is only one reason for today's travel bargains to Scotland.

The current economic situation has caused most international companies to drastically reduce and in some cases eliminate international business travel entirely. Especially hard hit are trans-Atlantic flights. The airlines now have too many empty seats on these flights and have resorted to the proved solution of lowering air fares for leisure travelers to bargain basement levels, in order to fill them -- it's a "half a loaf is better than none" approach. The low trans-Atlantic air fares now in effect, will not last forever. As soon as those empty seats begin to fill, the air fares will start going back up again, so don't expect this year's low air fares to still be around in 2010.

The third reason for Scotland's bargain status is again created by the economic situation. The British economy is in no better shape than our own and the businesses relying upon tourism for their revenues are suffering. The hotels, restaurants, car rental companies, even golf clubs, are all experiencing a decline in business, not only from overseas, but also from the all important domestic British market.

For the first time I have seen in over 20 years in the golf travel business, Scottish suppliers have taken a page from the airline marketing book, making some very special offers, a never before heard of action by the frugal Scots. These may not take the form of cash discounts, but no matter whether it's a 4 night stay in a hotel for the price of 3 nights, a complimentary upgrade to a better room, a larger car, or two rounds of golf for the price of one, it all comes down to a better deal for the traveler.

Not all Scottish suppliers are taking this step and many are not openly advertising their special offers. Afraid of diminishing the image of their hotel or golf club, they prefer to make these offers to golf travel specialist companies, where the product will be discretely packaged with other elements of a trip, the client receiving the benefit of the better overall price without knowing which elements were discounted and which were not.

But remember, this is an airline approach and these discounted or value added, hotel car rentals and golf clubs, can't operate at a break-even level forever. As soon as they begin to see an improvement in their sales, the discounts are going to stop and prices will jump back to their original levels and probably, very quickly.

The best time to get all the pricing benefits of the strong dollar, cheaper airfares and special deals on hotels, golf clubs and car rentals is now, in 2009 and the price savings can be significant - 30%, perhaps 35% or even more. These are huge reductions on the prices of only 12 months ago and it's extremely unlikely prices will ever return to these low levels again.

Maximizing the cost savings on that dream golf trip to Scotland isn't a do-it-yourself job and needs the expertise and insider knowledge of an experienced, reliable golf travel company that's a true specialist, such as Golf International. They have the connections and know all the deals that are being offered and they have their own local staff in Scotland, to make certain their clients get the very best. If you don't already have a golf travel company, there is none better than Golf International, so give them a call.

Didn't think you could afford this Scottish golf trip? You can if you take advantage of the price benefits that are with us at the moment, but certainly won't last. It's hard to imagine a better motivation than huge cost savings, but there are other reasons why it should be Scotland and this year.

A few years back, the Scottish Parliament designated 2009 as Homecoming Year - a year to celebrate the greatest of Scotland's many contributions to the world. It's a time when all those with even a hint of Scottish ancestry, or even a simple love of Scotland and things Scottish (and there's nothing more Scottish than either golf or whisky) are invited back to the homeland, to participate in some Scottish hospitality and join the party. The festivities are underway and the more than 300 special events planned, keep running until November.

It's already proving to be a very special year to visit the home of golf and the innovative Scots seem to have also succeeded in including one extra Scottish contribution to the world, into the celebrations -- Scots frugality. Check out the bargain price of a 2009 trip to Scotland and you can only agree.

For a few ideas and suggestions on how to join in the fun and experience a little Scottish, bargain basement frugality, click here.

©2009 David Brice / Golf International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Readmore »» Scottish Golf Travel

Mallorca: A fantastic Mediterranean golf jewel

Thoughts of an island vacation in the sun have always held an almost magical and universal appeal to us all. The combination of the sea, sand, warm sun, swaying palm trees and the laid back, relaxed, easy-going atmosphere of island living, has an irresistible attraction for everyone. But all islands are not created equal and choosing the right island to vacation on is an important planning step worth taking a little extra time over.

Chances are the Caribbean or perhaps Hawaii are among the first island groups that come to mind for many contemplating an island escape. Look beyond these American or decidedly Americanized islands, some of which have social and economic problems that belie the dreamy images depicted in their advertising. Think just a little outside of the usual box and there are easily reached islands in other parts of the world where you won't be surrounded by throngs of your vacationing neighbors; places where you can enjoy a truly international atmosphere and a decidedly European flair with all of the pleasures and experiences that brings -- world-class golf included.

There may be no better example of such very special places than Spain's Balearic Islands, an archipelago of four main islands; Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera, each with its own distinctive character, personality and appeal. Set like precious gems in the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, these handsome islands sit less than 100 short miles off the Spanish mainland, yet this is an entirely different Spain.

Glorious beaches, the crystal clear Mediterranean and an idyllic, year round climate, were the reasons for the Balearic's initial popularity with Northern Europeans, who still flock here during the traditional summer holiday months of July and August. Then, as abruptly as they arrived, the sun-worshippers all but vanish, quietly replaced in far smaller numbers by a more discriminating group.

These are the experienced, seasoned travelers, who have seen much of the world and they know which corners they prefer. Included are sports and entertainment celebrities, politicians, captains of industry, even royalty, along with others from the ranks of the rich and famous. They arrive on their expensive yachts and private planes, to relax and savor the true beauty and sophistication of these very special, paradise islands.

Those looking for pure tranquility and the opportunity to soak up Mother Nature's brilliant handiwork amid surroundings virtually void of people and man-made development, are drawn to tiny, low key Formentera. Others will be attracted to the island of Ibiza, a Mecca for jet-setters and would be jet-setters, who come to enjoy the numerous sandy beaches, sample the restaurants and lap up the night life of the bustling capital, Eivissa. For the really eager golfers, the Ibiza Golf Club, located only a few miles from town, welcomes visitors.

Relaxing Menorca has a totally different character, with often deserted beaches and bronze-age monuments that dot a low lying landscape still very much devoted to agriculture. The island capital of Mao offers a delightful old town, easily discovered on foot. On the opposite end of the island, yet still only 20-miles away, sits Ciutadella, the original capital chosen by the Romans as their main harbor, which today is perhaps the most atmospheric port-town in the entire Mediterranean region. Retaining a charming, aristocratic feeling of an age gone by, wander Ciutadella's winding cobblestone streets, past baroque churches, ancient convents and Gothic monuments to discover the true beauty of this utterly enchanting ancient gem -- and be sure to bring your camera.

The shining star in the small galaxy that make up the Balearic Islands can only be Mallorca, the largest and most dramatic of all. Don't be alarmed, the word "largest" is only used in comparative terms and at approximately 60-miles long and 40-miles wide, it remains a very manageable size - but it's an island packed to over-flowing with an astonishing array of so many different things to see and do. Whether you are looking for history, culture, scenery, beaches, fine dining or entertainment, Mallorca simply has more of everything and golfers are especially well catered to. With some two-dozen golf courses, including a share of the very best in Spain and Europe, Mallorca is a true golfer's heaven.

There are very few countries in this world where both avid golfers as well as those less enchanted by the game, can thoroughly enjoy a vacation together. Spain is definitely one of the few and the dream island of Mallorca does it in grand style, with a very special Spanish and uniquely Mallorcan flair.

The island has been inhabited for at least 9,000 years -- from cave dwellers, to warrior tribes from central Europe, to the Greeks and Phoenicians, then the Romans. Three centuries under Arab rule were followed during the 13th and 14th centuries by some bickering over Mallorcan control, between the competing governments in Catalan and Cordoba, eventually leading to Mallorca coming under the flag of a united Spain. It's a long and colorful history that has contributed to the cultural richness that is so evident throughout the island and history is everywhere.

Mallorca is filled with surprises to delight each and every visitor and nothing is quite as astonishing as the wealth and diversity of natural beauty that abounds here. From the Alpine-like mountains of the Northwest, with its spectacularly dramatic coastline and endless collection of ancient towns and picturesque villages, to the lower range of hills in the southeast, the scenery is breathtaking. There's the fertile, central plain where vineyards thrive alongside groves of olive trees, fig and citrus orchards. Drive to the ruggedly handsome east coast and there are gigantic underground caves and yet another world waiting to be discovered. And everywhere along the coastline, an infinite array of glorious sandy beaches, both large and intimately small, each calling out to beach-lovers from January until December. Miss the busy summer months and you might be the exclusive occupant.

And Mallorca doesn't stop here in her tireless effort to seduce visitors, adding some big city charms to allure any remaining doubters, still not convinced that this enchanting, Mediterranean island paradise literally, has something for everyone. The capital city of Palma de Mallorca may only have a resident population of about 375,000 - no larger than Wichita, Kansas -- but Palma's heart ranks up there alongside cities ten times as large.

Packed with history, culture, fascinating museums, galleries and a myriad of shopping opportunities, this small city is a visitor's delight. There are Moorish palaces, a Gothic castle, sumptuous private mansions, historic churches, impressive public buildings and an intriguing Old Town, including an important ancient Jewish Quarter. Dominating the entire city is its cathedral, a magnificent triumph of 13th century Gothic architecture and one of Spain's most stunning.

But Palma is not only about the past, it boasts a thriving modern art scene, great restaurants and lively cafes that never seem to close and with all of this, a night life that is as vibrant as any in all of Europe. The night-birds may not get into top gear until around midnight, but they keep popping until the early dawn hours to compensate, so be wary if you have a morning tee-time.

With so much going on and so many things to see and do, it may not be possible to do everything and there will be decisions to be made. But in this relaxed island setting, there's no real reason to do anything at all, the only time-table you have is your own. This after all is a vacation, so take full advantage and wind down, kick back and enjoy whatever takes your fancy.

But don't forget the golf - Mallorca's two dozen, top drawer golf courses are all calling out to be played and if you don't have time enough to play them all, just decide which you are going to leave until your next visit to this magical island -- and the chances are, you will return.

You could spend a month on Spain's Balearic Islands and still not have enough time to see and do everything, but if a week is all the time you have, you will at least obtain a good sampling of all these islands offer. Make this the family's primary vacation, extending your Spain trip to a full two weeks and discover how easily the Balearic Islands combine with other fascinating parts of the country.

The frequent short flights to the Spanish mainland from Palma, take little more than 45-minutes to reach Barcelona, Malaga or Valencia, opening up an exciting range of combination possibilities. The opportunity to experience more of one of Europe's most interesting countries is a temptation too good to resist and whichever city you may choose, there will be more world-class golf nearby -- there's good reason why Spain has earned the title of being Europe's Capital of Golf.

For more ideas and suggestions on how to get the most out of your trip to Spain, whether golf is to be included or not, click here.

©2009 David Brice / Golf International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Readmore »» Mallorca: A fantastic Mediterranean golf jewel