Virginia Golfer September / October 2015 | Page 25

10 Tips for Planning a
Memorable Golf Trip

4 Food for Thought

Hear that? It’s your stomach rumbling as
you approach the 17th tee. Golfers have to
eat. The post-round meal is ritual, so make
sure you do your research. Is there a good
restaurant at the clubhouse? Or are there
a variety of options in the area? Will you
need to make reservations? Be prepared.
Otherwise, you’ll be buying fast food instead
of breaking down your rounds over a steak
and some beers.

5 Polish Your Game

1

Check Your Bag

If you’re playing at a destination golf course,
well, then your game is about to be tested.
Sure, touring the rough and the bunkers
and the trees might give you a more exotic
experience, but you’re there to enjoy the
well-maintained fairways and smooth
greens. You want to show your group who’s
boss, right? An extra few trips to the practice
facility may be in order.

It can be easily overlooked. Remember, you’re not just playing a round at a local course.
You’re likely playing several rounds far away from home. Pack up the golf bag. Make sure
you have enough balls, tees and your lucky marker, along with an umbrella and sunscreen.

2 Look at Lodging

Without a good night’s rest—and a good
morning’s start—you’re not going to bring
your ‘A’ game to the first tee. Know your
priorities and specific amenities that you and
your group are looking for. Remember, it’s
not all about golf for everyone in the group.
Maybe you can sneak in some tennis, the
pool, shopping or even a trip to the spa to
hit ultimate relaxation.

Gather the
Right Group

6

Let’s face it: there are some people—even friends or
family—we would just rather not golf with. Because this
is a golf trip, select your group accordingly. Play with
people you know will enhance your experience, not risk
ruining it. Great game, great courses, great company.
That’s what it’s all about.

3

Dress
Accordingly

Pack a versatile suitcase. Check the forecast
but don’t bank on it being 100 percent accurate.
Be prepared for warmer, cooler and wetter
conditions. So when that rain shower comes
out of nowhere during your critical approach
shot on No. 7, you’ll handle it like a pro. Extra
socks are never a bad idea and neither is an
extra pair of spikeless shoes.

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S EPTEMBER/O CTOBER 2015 | V IRGINIA G OLFER

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