Pre-Shot Routine

At any level of play, the pre-shot routine is an extremely important tool. It is the reference point from which to make adjustments. A sound pre-shot routine will also allow you to alleviate the pressure of a tight match by transporting you to a familiar and comfortable place prior to each shot.

By Ed Stanfill, Head Golf Professional at The Duke at Rancho El Dorado

President Ed Holofcener ACES 6th hole

Golf Zoo President Ed Holofcener really, really, really likes hole #6 at SunRidge Canyon.

During his recent golf vacation to Scottsdale, the golf gods smiled on him for a brief second, and he jarred it on the 179 yard hole with a five iron.

"I knew I had hit a solid shot.... it went right toward the flag, bounced once and rolled about 10 feet, then disappeared. I couldn't believe it."

Ed was even more lucky, in that his three golf buddies from Baltimore, Jeff Wexler, Julius Hyatt, and Keith Silverstein were right there to witness, and enjoy a few free drinks on the jubilant 10 handicapper.

Ed's Golf Vacation Planner, Golf Zoo's V.P. Chris Parcell commented, "Hey - even a blind squirrel finds a nut every now and then, but I don't remember getting a free drink at the bar..."

This was Ed's first, but hopefully not last hole in one.
Congratulations Ed!

Classic Club - Newest Addition

Golf Zoo is very pleased to have the Classic Club available now for our discerning clientele. The golf course is absolutely stunning, an Arnold Palmer design which will be in the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic rotation in January, 2007. The 360 degree views are awe inspiring and in true Palmer Design tradition, the course is challenging yet fair. For golf and service, this is truly a 5 Star experience.

Good golfing and best wishes for the Holiday Season.

Lawrence

Fairway Bunkers

When playing from fairway bunkers or waste areas on some of our desert courses play the ball towards the center of your stance, take one more club than you normally would and make sure you make a smooth, controlled swing. Focusing on the front edge of the ball and maintaining your posture throughout the hitting area will allow you to make solid contact by hitting the ball first.

By Jay Larscheid, Head Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

Pre-Round Preparation

Give yourself the best chance of starting your round well by arriving at the golf course 45-60 minutes before your round. Begin at the putting green with putts of various lengths. Then hit a few chips to establish your feel. Finally, move over to the practice range and hit balls with every other club in your bag starting with your wedge. To ease first tee jitters your last three practice shots should mimic your opening drive.

By Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

Practice with a Purpose

Happy Halloween!

Anytime you’re practicing the game of golf – the short game or the full swing – have a purpose in mind. Practice putting with one ball from hole-to-hole making as many two putts as possible (no gimmies). Also, always aim at a target on the driving range, and simulate a round of golf by taking time between shots and going through the pre-shot routine.

By Ed Stanfill, Head Golf Professional at The Duke at Rancho El Dorado

Golf Tip of the Week: Body Rotation

Golf Tip from our Guest Blogger:

One of the elements of a sound golf swing is good rotation. A key to this is keeping the club in front of your body throughout the swing. To accomplish this motion, the golfer must rotate the club head, hands and chest at the same rate. Try to visualize a dot on the club head, on the hands and in the middle of your chest. During the swing, feel like those three dots go to the top, back down through impact to a good finish position at the same rate of rotation.

By Jay Larscheid, Head Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

New! - Golf Tips From Local Golf Pros!

Announcing: New Guest Bloggers contributing great golf tips to improve your game to the Golf Zoo Blog! The tips will be coming straight from local Golf Course Pros. Some of our Guest Bloggers will be:

• Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club
• Jay Larscheid, Head Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club
• Ed Stanfill, Head Golf Professional at The Duke at Rancho El Dorado

Check our Blog often to read new tips- the first tip will be posted next week! Thanks for reading!

Dragon Ridge Update

One of my favorite courses in Las Vegas will be turning private as of November 1, 2006. Dragon Ridge, a Jay Morris and David Druzisky design, is a totally awesome track. The moment you step onto the first tee box, you will be overwhelmed with the view of Las Vegas, along with an outstanding staff.
The course features many elevated tee boxes which will "Wow" you all the way to the 18th hole.
Dragon Ridge has hosted many tournaments, among them TigerJam 3 and 4 along with the Wendy's 3 Tour Challenge.
They also feature a full service 60,000 sq. foot practice facility with driving range, short game area with sand bunkers as well as 2 bent grass putting greens. The 42,000 square foot Club House is a sight to see as well.
While in Las Vegas, this is a must play, so be sure to get out there before the Dragon breathes it's final fire to the public.

Old Town San Diego

Recently I revisited Old Town San Diego and it's always great to be there, especially if you're staying at the Holiday Inn Express-Old Town. Old Town San Diego is considered the "birthplace" of California. San Diego is the site of the first permanent Spanish settlement in California. It was here in 1769, that Father Junipero Serra came to establish the very first mission in a chain of 21 missions that were to be the cornerstone of California’s colonization.
As well as a great selection of golf courses within a 30 minute drive, Old Town boasts not only an historic and warm ambience but also 32 Restaurants, 106 Speciality Shops, 12 Art Galleries,
27 Historic Buildings & Sites, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, Heritage Park (Victorian Homes), Presidio Park, Sheriff's Museum, Old Town Trolley Tours, The Theatre in Old Town. Within close proximty are also some world renowned attractions including Balboa Park (5 mi)
Beaches (3.0 mi), Coronado Island (10 mi), Cruise Ships (5 mi), Gaslamp Quarter (4 mi),
Wild Animal Park (25 mi), San Diego Zoo (5 mi), Sea World (3 mi) and Tijuana, Mexico (18 mi)

I'm sure you'll love Old Town as I do and the folks at Holiday Inn Express-Old Town will make you feel right at home.

Golden Horseshoe- Williamsburg, Virginia

I just returned from a weekend golf getaway and I must say I was most impressed by the staff and golf courses at the Golden Horseshoe! The Golden Horseshoe is located in historic downtown Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, and is home of two fantastic 18 hole courses, as well as a top notch executive course.

I started off my day at the Gold Course which opened in 1963, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. This is one of the finest traditional golf courses you will find anywhere in the country. There are no homes on the golf course and the elevation changes are fantastic. This course is known for having the best set of par 3’s and I can attest, they are stunning but demanding.

After a wonderful lunch in the clubhouse I ventured just down the road to the Green Course which has its own clubhouse. The Green Course was built by Rees Jones, (Jones Sr. Son) in 1991 and designed to be more of a resort style course that is more forgiving then the Gold. It can best be described as a links style course bordered with trees. You still get the wonderful elevation changes but much larger landing areas and bail out areas by the greens. I had heard all the hype of the Gold Course (which it lived up to) but not much on the Green. Well the Green course is a fantastic layout, kept in great condition in beautiful surroundings. A must play.

As I mentioned earlier there is also a super executive course- Spotswood, redone in 1963 by the elder Jones. This is one of the best executive courses I have seen and if you play 18 in the morning on either the Gold or Green you can get a free replay on the Spotswood in the afternoon.

If you are looking for a great 36 hole day or just a super 18 give Golf Zoo a call at 800.929.7300 and we can put together a memorable golf vacation for you.

Golf Zoo seeks experienced Golf / Travel Salespeople!

Golf Zoo, one of the fastest growing Golf Tour Providers in America is seeking experienced Golf Travel Salespeople in the following destinations:

· Phoenix / Scottsdale, Arizona
· Orlando, Florida

These individuals will be responsible for daily sales and service of customized golf vacations, as well as maintaining relationships with vendors in the applicable region. This is NOT an entry level position - Only those with golf, travel, or previous sales experience need apply. We are seeking enthusiastic and hard working individuals with a strong interest in the golf travel industry. Exceptional communication skills are a must.

Benefits include:

· Competitive compensation plan with bonuses
· Medical and dental plans
· 3 weeks paid time off annually
· Telecommuting
· Discounted travel and golf
· and more...

Join the Golf Zoo team! To apply, please send cover letter with resume to chris@golfzoo.com

Saddlebrook Resort - Convenience and Casual Quality

It's a great thing, when you can arrive at a resort, and never have to leave the property. What do I mean by this, well here goes - 2 championship courses, Arnold Palmer Golf Academy World Headquarters, Spa, Fitness center, two fantastic restaurants, sports bar, lounge, poolside cafe and superpool bar. The greatest thing about all this, is that it's all within walking distance of your accommodations. Speaking of accommodations - Deluxe guest room, One bedroom suite, Two bedroom suite and Three bedroom suites are available. All rooms have new Tropical Bahama furniture - very nice look.

One well know sports writer refers to this unique property as "One of Florida's quintessential golf resorts". I spent the weekend here recently and can tell you first hand how much I enjoyed it. I could play 18 holes of golf, have a great dinner and end the night either listening to the poolside band or with a quality cigar on my balcony overlooking the resort.

Let me talk about the 2 courses for a moment. The Saddlebrook Course - This course has your typical Florida look - natural beauty! The par 70 course winds its way through towering cypress, draped with Spanish moss and beautiful blue water. It is currently going through a 2 million dollar renovation - completed in Mid-November.
The Palmer Course - This course has generous driving areas with firm green contoured fairways to resemble a rolling New England course - level ground is rare. The beautiful look of each hole along with the different variety that each hole brings, makes this par 71 a great test. These are both stay and play courses.

In a nutshell - if you have a group of golfers that want to check into a resort, have two quality golf courses to play, eat at great restaurants, drink cocktails by the pool and do all this with never having to get in your car until the day you depart - THEN SADDLEBROOK RESORT IS FOR YOU!

For more information about Saddlebrook resort or to book you next golf outing, call 888.333.6103 or go to http://www.golfzoo.com/-dest-FLTA-vendor-SADSAD-_param-1-.htm?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog?utm_content=Saddlebrook.

Auld Course now Salt Creek G.C.

The Auld Course in San Diego has undergone an ownership change and from all reports golfers will see an immediate positive change in the facility. The new ownership is strongly committed to upgrading the course and facility conditions, including adding GPS to all carts, renovated bunkering and improved turf conditions on both fairways and green. Located in Chula Vista, in close proximity to downtown San Diego, you definitely have the feel of being on a links layout. If you can't get to Ireland or Scotland, hit Salt Creek instead for a golf and visual experience not often available.

Located at the foothills of Mt. Miguel, the links are bordered by acres of natural wetlands and protected habitat reserves. With five sets of tees, generous width fairways and ample run-up space, Salt Creek is both playable and very enjoyable for players of all abilities. The practice facilities are among the best in all of San Diego County.

We're certain you'll find Salt Creek a golfing, visual and aesthetic experience. See you on the links!

Florida in November/December

I know it's only Summer and most people aren't thinking about their winter golf trip. I'm originally from the Northeast and I know the weather can start changing as early as November.

I've lived in Florida for over 8 years now and absolutely love it. I'm in Orlando and have played golf all over the state. Of the areas I handle, I would rank them in this order from top golf destination to bottom: Orlando, Jacksonville, Tampa, W. Palm, Stuart/Port St. Lucie, Fort Lauderdale, Miami.

The ranking is based on quality of golf, travel time to courses, variety of course types and price. If you want a good mix of golf and nightlife then Tampa is your place. Only issue with Tampa is the travel to the different courses and some of the quality. South Florida is the night life capitol - but some of the golf can be suspect, or too expensive for what you get. Orlando and Jacksonville pose some of the best golf in the state, along with an expansive number of courses to choose from. If you need many places to eat and drink - Orlando is best.

The weather in Florida for November and December is some of the best in the country. The courses are in great shape, the normal winter golf crowd hasn't arrived yet (Jan. - Mar.), and the prices are attractive. If you'd like to talk more about a Florida golf trip at the end of this year, please call 888.333.6103 to discuss - or go to our website and put together a trip quote (www.golfzoo.com) and see what you get.

Gold Canyon - What a great Stay and Play!

My father came into town last weekend for Father's Day, and we decided to get "outta town" for a guys only golf weekend.
Gold Canyon Golf Resort (about 35 minutes east of Scottsdale) was the perfect choice - I chose it for the golf, though I had never actually stayed at the Resort before.
Gold Canyon has 36 holes right on site, (the first tee of Dinosaur Mountain was literally about 40 yards away from the front door of our casita) and although I play alot of golf in Scottsdale and have played em all, it is still my absolute favorite since I first played it almost 6 years ago. What I was pleasantly surprised at was how good the Sidewinder course was! (I must admit that I had never played it before last weekend.) An extremely enjoyable layout, and a really good warmup for Dinosaur. It makes more a really nice 36 hole day - Sidewinder in the morning, then Dino in the afternoon. (We have a really good special price for that as well.)

I was extremely impressed with the accommodations. Our unit, a "Spa Casita" is basically a hotel room, but a LARGE hotel room. 2 double beds + a sitting area to watch the NBA playoffs made it very comfortable for 2 guys to hang out, and sip a little Makers Mark. The clencher here was the private patio with the PRIVATE JACUZZI right outside your back door. It's the perfect setup.

Also, the restaurant (Kokopelli's) was excellent for both breakfast and dinner. We had all you can eat catfish Friday night, and prime rib was the special on Saturday. The prices were great - much less than what you would expect at a resort - great food, great prices, and exceptional service. The breakfast buffet with an omelette station was a great value as well.

If you're coming to Scottsdale, but want a resort that's a little more out of the way and secluded, give Gold Canyon Golf Resort a try.

You won't be disappointed.

Premium Course without the Premium Price Tag

The Thistle Golf Club located in Calabash, NC is a must play on your next golf vacation to Myrtle Beach. There are 3 beautiful nines designed by architect Tim Cate and the owner has spared no expense in adding gorgeous landscaping throughout the facility.

From the moment you drive through the gates you know the club is managed to give you a top-notch golf experience. The staff is wonderful and their attention to detail is impressive to say the least. A common complaint from many golfers at some golf courses is that they feel as though they are being rushed around and can’t enjoy their round of golf. Well at the Thistle they send out groups every 12 minutes to give you a full hole open in-front and behind you. Most courses send groups out every 8 minutes, which makes for a crowed golf course. You will be glad you have some extra time to look around as every hole is lined with beautiful wildflowers and perfectly manicured flower beds.

If you are looking for a memorable round on one of the top courses in the area, give one of the Golf Vacation Specialists at Golf Zoo a call. We can give you more information on the Thistle Golf Club as well as hundreds of other golf courses.

Mapping out that Perfect Golf Vacation...

Planning your golf vacation just got easier with Golf Zoo's All-New Interactive Area Maps! If you haven't already seen them, have a look at this post for an example, what you can do with the maps and images.
In this example, I will use the destination 'Arizona' as the example. There are two (2) ways you can get to each destination's interactive area map:
The First, is simply from our main destination map page that lists all of our destinations. In the image below - the interactive map graphic/button is highlighted.

The Second option is avialable when you land on the Overview page of a destination - click on the Interactive Area Map button near the top of the section - as noted in the image below.


Once on the Map page - you have options on how you can view the map (see the below graphics). I suggest you select the "Satellite" or "Hybrid" views for a real bird's eye view of some of the golf courses and lodging properties. You can also get directions from from one point to another (the directions will open up on a new page). With name, address, pictures and address information available on every "bubble" it makes it easy to find out where you want to stay relative to the golf courses you want to play - or what golf courses you may want play given the proximity to your lodging property. Simply select a property on the right side listing of options and the map will point out where it is on the map.

Just want to see what's around a particular property? Thats fine too- you can also just click the points on the map to get the same information. All of the green number points on the map are Golf Courses and all of the blue lettered points on the map are Lodging properties.

Clicking on the picture or name of the property in the 'bubble' will take you to that page in our site for more pictures and description as well. You can zoom in, click and drag the map to view anything on the map that you wish (see the below two examples). Have fun!

The Golf Club at Eagle Mountain
Golf Zoo's The Estate

Good Bye to Our Fine Feathered Friends

So Sad, but So True! Wild Wing Plantation in Myrtle Beach, SC which is the home of 4 golf courses: Avocet, Falcon, Woodstork and Hummingbird, is under new ownership and some drastic changes are coming on 6/5/06. The Hummingbird will close for good and the Woodstork and Falcon will have 9 holes open for each course and will be combined under the new name: Wild Wing Couse #2. Fortunately the Avocet will remain open - all 18 holes for play.

With so much supply and not as much demand, alot of golf courses have succumb to closure - being replaced by single family homes, condos and shopping malls. It is a sad day when they close a beautiful golf facility to put up a Walmart!!!

And For Your Second Course...

Selected by Sports Illustrated as one of the Top Ten New golf courses in the world, We-Ko-Pa presents a unique alternative to the already upscale Scottsdale golf market. Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw have teamed together for the new course at Wekopa called Saguaro.

This design team, known for such highly touted courses as Bandon Trails, Sand Hills and Friar's Head in Baiting Hollow, NY are very excited about the new prospects at Wekopa. "This piece of land has some very interesting natural movement to it" said Crenshaw of the new Wekopa course. "I think this golf course will be pretty unique for the desert. People will be induced to play different shots and find solutions to new challenges when playing this course".
The new Saguaro course, located just north of the practice facilities, is scheduled to be open for play in December 2006.

Escena Golf Club - Newest Addition

We are thrilled to have Escena Golf Club in Palm Springs in Golf Zoo's stable. Escena is a Nicklaus Design cut out of raw desert in North Palm Springs and is certain to be a huge success. The grooming of the course is impeccable, the clubhouse and driving range will be coming soon.

Located near the Palm Springs airport, this is an upscale addition to golf on the western end of the valley which I'm certain will be well received. Next time you're booking a golf vacation with us, be sure to include Escena Golf Club, you won't be disappointed. The views of the surrounding mountains are awesome and the desert landscaping is simply beautiful. Enjoy !

A Pure Golfers Facility

I just returned from PGA Village in Port St. Lucie, Florida - what a wonderful experience! This PGA run facility has everything any golfer would want. There are 3 -18 hole courses designed by Tom Fazio (North and South courses) and Pete Dye (Dye course). The North and South courses are being renovated May - October of this year; after that, they should be even better than they are now. I played the Dye course, this is a unique links style golf course with a lot of variety.

For those players that like to practice and learn about their game, there's a 35 acre practice facility. This has it all - 15,000 sq. ft. putting green, 5 greenside bunkers with different sand from courses around the world, two 25-station chipping area, over 100 individual practice tees and an outdoor ampitheater reserved for student instruction.

If you really want to get into the mechanics of your golf swing - set up and appointment at the PGA Kinematics Lab. This part of the learning center provides essential movement assessments for greater game improvement.

The lodging will be anything from a hotel (Hilton Garden Inn - Sam Snead's Tavern) to Villa's (Kolter Resort and Sheratons Vacation Villa's). Closest airport is in West Palm - about 45 mins. south of resort.

In my opinion - if you want to enjoy great golf, great practice and overall game improvent - then PGA Village is the place for you and your group. If you have any other questions or have interest in booking your next golf trip, please call 888.333.6103 or go to www.GolfZoo.com.

Come Test Your Luck on the Gambler

King’s North at Myrtle Beach National is a must play on your next golf trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This is one of my all time favorite golf courses because it gives you so many options for risk/reward golf shots in a beautiful setting.

Home of the famous island green, featuring bunkers in the shape of “S” and “C” known as the South Carolina hole. Number 18, a 464 yard par four is framed by 42 individual bunkers. The most memorable hole on the course is the par 5 “Gambler.” On the tee box you are forced to make a decision to go for the island fairway and take a crack at the green in two or take the conventional route around the water.

For all you northerners out there who love their bent grass greens you are in luck as all three courses at Myrtle Beach National have the true rolling bent greens. Give the staff of Golf Zoo a call at 800.777.7650 and one of our experienced Golf Vacation Specialists will help you put together your dream golf vacation.

Play all day with breakfast and lunch included!

World Golf Village - St. Augustine, Florida -

If you like to play more than 18 holes in a day and have 2 meals included with it - then I have the place for you; the resort courses at World Golf Village -Slammer and the Squire, King and the Bear. These are two great golf facilities at one great property. During the months of July 1 through September 30, you can play all day with two meals. The Slammer and the Squire was designed by Bobby Weed with Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen as consultants. The King and the Bear is the only course in the US designed by Palmer and Nicklaus. A golfer can play all day with 2 meals for around $133 per day. The second round is not booked in advance, but day of play - 2 courses to choose from.

The only issues are summer aeration: King and the Bear (8/22 - 8/24), Slammer and the Squire (9/5 - 9/7). It looks like July 1 through August 21 would be perfect.

You have 4 different lodging options at the facility - Comfort Inn & Suites, Laterra Resort and Spa, WGV Renaissance Resort, and the Villa's at WGV. This package is for the diehard golfer that can deal with the heat, a lot of golf and a full belly. If this package interests you, please call 888.333.6103 to discuss.

Life in the Trap Golf Comic of the Week

Here is the new Life in the Trap golf comic strip this week!:

(click comic for a larger version)

Top 10 er... 15 Golf Vacation Planning Tips!

Getting pumped for that Golf Vacation that you have been thinking about all Winter? We have asked our Golf Vacation Specialists here at Golf Zoo what are their Top 10 Golf Vacation Planning Tips. Without further ado...

1. Plan ahead! If you want the "prime tee-times" you need to book months in advance. Many times package providers can book a tee-time six months before an individual can.
2. Work with an individual that knows the area well and plays golf - not a call center with no personal touch.
3. Make sure you know your dates of travel before you book or start quoting prices to your golf buddies. Golf travel prices are dictated by the time of year and one day can double the price. Ask when the rates change, and you can keep more of your change in your pocket.
4. Have a pretty clear cut idea on what each individual of your Golf Group wants to pay for the trip.
5. Be flexible with your tee times - everyone wants 8-9 AM, but remember that some courses offer reduced rates for late morning and early PM tee times.
6. If you can plan your golf trip to happen during the week - rates can be lower than weekends and less crowded on the course.
7. In some cases - Villas, Condos and Homes can be less expensive than hotels, and a lot more fun for the group.
8. If a deal sounds too good to be true it probably is. So do your homework and find out what kind of "deal" it really is.
9. Find out if you can pre-book replays and don't always plan on a tee time being available when you are done your first 18 holes.
10. Don't spend hours making phone calls, changing tee-times, and leaving credit card numbers when all you have to do is call Golf Zoo.

5 BONUS Tips!

1. Bring your balls...
2. And extra gloves as well
3. Bring your umbrella, even though it won't get wet in the garage
4. Get your golf shoes re-spiked, even if they haven't needed it since 1985

and finally:

5. Leave the pencil with the eraser at home - it's a dead giveaway...

Do you have your own tips that you would like to share? We would love to hear from you! Post your comments below!

CP's Top Three Scottsdale 36 hole combos!

Coming to Scottsdale, and want to get as much golf in as you can??? Here (in my humble opinion) are the best 36 hole days in the valley.

#1 - Gold Canyon - Sidewinder and Dinosaur Mountain

This is still my favorite 36 hole day. You've got both courses at the same facility, and it's good to warm up on the Sidewinder course in the morning, get your swing in shape, and grab a cold beer (and a prayer) at the turn to take on the formidable Dinosaur Mountain in the afternoon. It's a good 30-40 minute drive east from Scottsdale, but well worth it!

#2 - Golf Club at Eagle Mountain and SunRidge Canyon

Play two of the best tracks in the valley with Eagle and SunRidge - definitely play Eagle in the morning, as it's the more forgiving of the two - most of the fairways here are bowl shaped, so if you spray it a little off the tee, you're still O.K. Views are awesome, and Eagle has the best staff in the valley. Feeling confident? Super. Now we'll bury you on the back nine at SunRidge Canyon. SunRidge is a similar course as far as topography to Eagle, but MUCH MORE DIFFICULT. I think SunRidge has the best "3 finishing holes" in the state. #16, a true 3 shot par 5, then make sure to play from the tips at #17 - a ridiculous par 3 that's all carry over the valley, ending with a dog leg left long par 4 to finish. (No worries - you just gotta hit a 275 yard draw over fairway bunkers that are in play in order to have any prayer at par) You'll need a cold one after the back nine at SunRidge, but you'll HAVE to return...

#3 - TPC Stadium and Grayhawk Talon

For this one, you have to have 2 things... SOME GAME AND LOTSA CASH. Definitely one of the more expensive 36 hole combos, but worth the money if you wanna play where the pros do... Start at TPC Stadium, as the front nine is relatively gentle, and ends with a fantastic last 4 holes, then take the 10 minute drive north to Grayhawk Golf Club, where the clubhouse is spectacular, the service second to none, and the beer seems a little colder at Phil's Grill. Talon, a tougher test than TPC but not unfair for the typical hack if they play from the Terra Cotta tees. (5867 yards is all you'll want with this course if you're a 15 or more) I like Talon more than Raptor as it seems like the fairways are a little wider, and it has an island green on #17, "Devil's Drink" which is a great hole to take a little of your buddies pocket cash on a "closest to the pin" bet. Make sure to either have lunch before, or dinner after your round at Phil's Grill - great food and service, and some cool memorabilia.

Scottsdale has alot of great 36 hole days, but in my opinion, (and I've done 'em all), these are Scottsdale's "Top 3".

Great Happy Hours In Myrtle Beach!

After a day on the links in beautiful Myrtle Beach, South Carolina you are probably ready for an ice cold beer and some great food. But, chances are your low on cash after paying your gambling debts to your buddies. Well, here are some great happy hours that won’t cost you a lot of money.

Burro Loco- $5 Pitchers of Beer, Free Wings, Free Chips and Salsa, $3 Pizza, and ½ price Appetizers
Ron John’s- $5 Pitchers of Beer, $3 burgers, $.30 Wings
Liberty Steakhouse and Brewery- $2 micro-brew pints, ½ price Appetizers
Murphy’s Law Sports and Raw Bar- Dollar Drafts, $.35 wings
Master’s Gentleman’s Club-$2 bottles, $2.50 Vodka drinks
Overtime Sports Café- Daily drink and appetizer specials

If you are looking for other suggestions on golf, lodging, or restaurants give the knowledgeable golf vacation specialists at Golf Zoo a call (888) 777-7650.

Life in the Trap Golf Comic of the Week

Here is the new Life in the Trap golf comic strip this week!:

(click comic for a larger version)

Westin Villas in Rancho Mirage are Gorgeous!

Last week I had my first tour of the Westin Mission Hills Villas at Rancho Mirage and they are very impressive. Situated on beautiful grounds adjoining the main hotel and 36 holes by designers Pete Dye and Gary Player, the villa amenities leave nothing wanting. Every Premium Villa interconnects to a Deluxe Villa, so friends and family can be together or separate, this was an impressive feauture. The Premium Villas have 2 fireplaces, a King bed and sofa sleeper in the living area, inside laundry, a full kitchen and a patio with BBQ. The Deluxe Villas have a slightly smaller kitchen and living area, Queen bed and sofa sleeper, no BBQ or fireplaces, otherwise very similar, but the Deluxe Villa is definitely a cut above for spaciousness and amenities.

Villa guests have full run of all the Westin Mission Hills Resort facilities and amenities the hotel guests enjoy including reataurants, pools, jacuzzis, gymnasium, spa and there's a continuous shuttle running from the villas to the hotel and the golf courses. Kids love the pools, water slides, bike trails, volleyball, there's lots to do for everyone. These are beautiful villas, great location, and the price won't scare the hell out of you.

Fish out of Water?

Most folks don't think of Scottsdale, AZ as a city for seafood. If you are looking for this type of fare; I'd like to suggest the Ocean Club. The pricey menu offers an impressive menu with fresh fish caught daily from the coast of Oregon to the coast of New Zealand. Of course there is also a nice selection for steaks as well.

The atmosphere is a throw back to the old supper club days and the bar is a great place for appetizers and drinks. Portions are very generous, but you'll have to dig extra deep in your pockets for this meal! The Mastro Groups seafood restaurant in North Scottsdale is a popular place and reservations are suggested.
The Ocean Club is located at 15045 N. Kierland Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ, for reservations please call 480.443.8555.

Bon Appetit !!

Life in the Trap Golf Comics of the Week

Here are 2 new Life in the Trap golf comic strips this week!:

(click comics for larger versions)