Enjoying Valentines Day and Golf

Couples who love to play golf should be looking forward to this perfect opportunity to spend their time on a golf vacation trip. Even though there are plenty of great vacation spots to celebrate Valentine’s Day, golf vacation destinations are still at the top of those lists. 

If you are planning to make this Valentine's Day the best celebration among your usual golf play dates, planning ahead of time is the first step. Choose the best golf resort with the best golf vacation packages for couples. Golf resorts with state-of-the-art amenities and accommodations are very attractive. There are golf resorts that pamper couples by preparing wines and chocolates in their hotel rooms, while others offer spa treatments for couples only. Most golf resorts are also maintaining stimulating activities for couples to enjoy such as canoeing, hiking, swimming, and shopping at local malls. These activities encourage closeness among lovers.

Next, make sure to choose the golf trip that suits you and your significant other's style. If you both love the beach, then golf resorts near stunning beaches is the perfect choice. For newlyweds, it is a perfect honeymoon location. You have both the luxury of enjoying the game while feasting your eyes with beautiful blue waves. If you both love a calming and relaxing golf experience, numerous golf resorts have private balconies for couples to enjoy the scenic view of sunset in the countryside. 

Lastly, choose the golf resort that offers the perfect golf experience without compromising your budget. Make sure to check ahead of time for golf vacation promos and discounts since most golf resorts have various golf vacation packages like Wedding Day Packages, couple golf packages and Valentine’s Day Packages. Most golf vacation packages offer 2 nights stay and 1 night free stay to luxurious Penthouse while others offer free amenities like free access to fitness center and golf lessons. 

Scott's Top courses you must play in Palm Springs

As an avid golfer, I have composed this list based on a few basic factors that matter to me:

• Golf Course Layout
• Service
• Consistency of golf course conditions(mostly the greens, nothing better than perfect greens in the desert
• Playability

Although this list is in numbered order, all of these courses could fall under the same rank at any given time:

1. PGA West Stadium - What's better than going on a golf trip and getting humiliated. The Stadium Course is still the toughest test of golf in the area by far! You will be hitting long irons(or drivers!!) on all par 3's-except for number 17, Alcatraz, which is just surrounded by water! Great test of golf and worth the money(peak season rates are $230+)

2. The Celebrity Course at Indian Wells - You tee it up and Indian Wells and you have no idea you are in a desert climate. The course is as green as can be, always in great shape and who wouldn't want to play the course that used to host the LG Skins game for the likes of Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples, and many more.

3. La Quinta Mountain Course - This Pete Dye gem is absolutely amazing. Don't be surprised if you see some Bighorn sheep scaling the rocks around you. Each hole has its own identity, a fair, yet challenging course that will keep you on your game or in the rocks if you don't pay attention. My favorite hole is the risk reward par 5 15th, where if you choose to go for it in two, beware of the rocks on the right.

4. Firecliff course at Desert Willow - The service at Desert Willow is awesome and the golf courses live up to the hype. The Firecliff Course, which is my favorite is a course that demands accuracy on your approach shots due to quite a bit of undulation on the greens along with great lag putting-which I could use a bit of help with right now:(. When you go to Desert Willow, be sure to eat lunch there, food is great and service is amazing.

5. Terra Lago North Course - Still love this course even though it has changed ownership and management companies a few times over the last 10 years. If you like a some elevation changes and some wildlife, you will not be disappointed with Terra Lago. It used to be the site of the old skins game where Tiger, Nicklaus, Palmer, and many others use to compete. It doesn't get as much attention now, but still a course worth seeing. Also, rates at Terra Lago tend to not empty the wallet.

6. The Classic Club - Formerly a host of the Bob Hope Golf Tournament(now Humana Challenge), The Classic Club has one of the best course layouts of any course in the area. It is the kind of course where if you are hitting it well, it will seem very playable and if you are not, you will end up shooting a very high score. You may even encounter a little breeze while you are there as the course sits North of Highway 10. Don't let that scare you though, it is still well worth it.

7. PGA West Nicklaus/Norman - I really wanted to separate these into two different rankings, but they are so close I have them together. Both courses are great, anyone who has played all the courses at PGA West knows that each course is like your options for Ice Cream, some days you go Vanilla, others you may go with Rocky Road! I like the Nicklaus because there are a few really good risk reward holes like the par 5 15th hole, which has always had my number! The Norman Course is great and has quite a few water holes, like the par 3 13th, which is a long par three and probably my favorite on the course.

8. Escena Golf Club - Not only is Escena a great golf course, it also sits in the perfect location for a day of arrival or day of departure round of golf, only 10 minutes from the Palm Springs International airport. Escena has wide fairways and is very friendly off the tee. The greens are almost always in great condition, but what makes this place is amazing are the views of the mountains nearby.

9. Westin Mission Hills Gary Player Course - The Gary Player Course surroundings have changed over the years, going from a course that basically just in the open desert to a course surrounded by homes and condos. That being said, the course has not lost its beauty as Gary Player did an awesome job combining a course that offers an array of long par 4's that are extremely challenging as well as some short holes that offer you a chance to score.

10. Marriott Desert Springs Palms Course - There are two courses at the Marriott and you really can't go wrong with either. The Palms Course has lush fairly forgiving fairways and lots of water holes. It is a great resort experience you will not soon forget.

Well, there is my top ten, all this talking about golf, and I am still here!! Off to the course! If you are planning on coming to Palm Springs, you can't go wrong with any of these courses.

Feel free to call me so I can set up your next trip to Palm Springs.

Scott Curry 888-985-9170 or email me at scott@golfzoo.com   

  

Golf Zoo/Golf Holiday Intl. introduces Michael Leary

Golf Zoo and GolfHolidays Intl. is pleased to introduce the newest member of our team, Michael Leary!

Mike joined Golf Zoo / Golf Holidays Intl. in mid - September as our International Golf Vacation Specialist, working out of the Orlando Florida office. Mike has been organizing and providing guided tours to Ireland and Scotland for over 23 years, and brings a wealth of knowledge and “local know how” to the Golf Zoo team.

Mike played in the 1987 British Open Qualifying at Muirfield and though he fell short of qualifying he instantly fell in love with the links courses of both Scotland and Ireland. Living in the Orlando area and working in convention sales at Walt Disney World, by 1990 he was taking his corporate clients on trips to St. Andrews and Ballybunion. It was a natural that he started his own golf travel business. Formerly the owner/operator of Golf Tours International, Mike’s expertise lies in Scotland and Ireland and can tailor an itinerary for any need or budget.

Here are a few packages Mike has assembled for the summer of 2014:

·       Southwest Ireland
·       Western Scotland
·       Scottish Highlands
·       Southwest Ireland - (value)
·       Western Scotland / Northern Ireland
·       Edinburgh Area - (value)

The easiest and most efficient way to get your itinerary right is to simply call Mike and he will email you a complete itinerary for you and your group.

Mike often chuckles and states…

“I can control everything on your trip except the weather and the numbers on your scorecard. So practice and pray and leave the rest to me!”

Amen. Welcome to the Team Mike! We’re glad to have ya.

PGA National Fall/Winter UNLIMITED Golf Getaway

PGA National Fall/Winter UNLIMITED Golf Getaway for $288.00 per day!

Escape winter and play in sunny Palm Beach between October and mid-January with an upscale, trendy getaway to PGA National Resort & Spa. Shape your shot on and off the course with an UNLIMITED GOLF package for $288 per person per day!  Award-winning golf, luxury accommodations, and 4-Diamond rated cuisine and amenities offer the perfect backdrop for your getaway. From October 1st, 2013 through January 12th, 2014, come and stay in West Palm Beach where PGA Tour Quality golf and great value meet!  The Golf Zoo PGA National UNLIMITED GOLF Fall/Winter Stay & Play Package includes: 3-Nights Deluxe Accommodations at PGA National Resort & Spa Daily breakfast in the Palm Terrace Restaurant  Unlimited Daily Golf per night stay on the following Resort courses: PGA National Squire Course - A Tom Fazio design favorite PGA National Fazio Course - 2nd longest course at PGA National PGA National Palmer Course - An Arnold Palmer gem The Estates Course - Traditional design and Country Club environment 1 Round on The Champion Course - Home to the PGA Tour Honda Classic and the "Bear Trap" Shared cart for 18 holes per day  Complimentary daily replay round booked day of play ($40 cart fee only) Range balls prior to round and full access to the tournament quality PGA National Practice Facility  $1000 off selected Resort offerings (Resort Passport issued at check-in) Golf bag storage Free Access to PGA National Health & Raquet Club Daily resort fee  This package is available from October 1st, 2013 through January 12th, 2014.  Package price based on a) two golfers sharing a Deluxe Guestroom, or b) four golfers sharing a 2 Bedroom Club Cottage . Extra nights available. $288.00 per person per day, available for 7 days a week   Book this Package now!  More Information about   West Palm Beach / Boca Raton, Florida

Especially For Golfers But A Lesson To All. . . .

A man was walking down the street when he was accosted by a particularly
dirty and shabby-looking homeless man who asked him for a couple of dollars for dinner.

The man took out his wallet, extracted ten dollars and asked, "If I give you this money,
will you buy some beer with it instead of dinner?"

"No, I had to stop drinking years ago," the homeless man replied.

"Will you spend this on green fees at a golf course instead of food?" the man asked.

"Are you NUTS!" replied the homeless man. "I haven't played golf in 30 years!"

"Well," said the man, "I'm not going to give you money. Instead, I'm going to take
you home for a shower and a terrific dinner cooked by my wife."

The homeless man was astounded. "Won't your wife be furious with you for doing that?

The man replied, "That's okay. It's important for her to see what a man looks like
after he has given up drinking and golf."

Golf Vacations as Romantic Getaways

A romantic escapade is a wonderful opportunity for couples who wish to spend time for each other. Although there had been countless vacation spots designed for honeymooners or married couples, many golf vacation resorts have opened their gates as romantic getaways for couples. Some of the world's luxurious golf resorts dedicated perfect amenities and services for newlyweds and this is one reason why many couples choose to relax, recreate, ad have romantic dates on golf resorts.

Most golf resorts are known to maintain a serene and picturesque surrounding. Moreover, since golf resorts have several wide and open areas, these places became ideal wedding venues. Weddings proved to increase tourist exposure to the resort aside from raising revenues. In addition, newlyweds can spend their honeymoon on the resort. Because of this type of niche marketing, many golf resorts created various golf vacation packages mainly aimed for couples. Vacation packages ranged from wedding packages, couples golf packages, even Valentine's Day packages.

Golf resorts are usually the primary choice of couples who like to plan golf trips and spend quality time for each other. As a result, several golf resorts innovated their amenities and created attractive love nests for couples so that they do not only come to the resort to play golf but they can extend their stay by enjoying other romantic activities. Golf resorts targeted couples by pampering them with wines and chocolates upon arriving at the accommodation area. They also offer VIP discounts for dinner dates on the resort's classy restaurants or pubs. Aside from the usual golf game packages, many golf resorts offered spa treatments for couples only. Other resorts offered tours and sightseeing activities which are also exclusive for couples.

Several resorts also upgraded their hotel amenities and designed rooms which are dedicated for couples or honeymooners. Some added private balconies on each rooms so that couples can enjoy a tranquil view of the lush countryside or a panoramic view of the sunset over a quiet lake. Large golf estates even built small cabins or lodges for more private and cozy accommodations. Golf resorts which are located near stunning beaches also proved to be favorite choices of newlyweds. These areas were not only ideal wedding venues but also perfect honeymoon locations.

Since most golf vacation destinations are geared toward attracting couples to spend romantic getaways on these locations, many golf resorts created other non-golf activities which are exclusive for couples. Most of these encouraged couples to do the activity together rather than seeing a scenario where the spouse plays golf separately while the wife stays inside the hotel room. Examples of fantastic activities for couples are horseback riding, hiking, canoeing, swimming, and shopping in local malls. Golf vacations are indeed great picks for any type of couples.

Trendy Water Designs on Every Golf Vacation Resort

Every golf game becomes more interesting and challenging most especially if the golf ball lands in a water hazard. Basically a water hazard is any natural or man-made body of water which is situated within the golf course's premises. Since water hazards add more fun to a typical golf trip, many golf resorts meticulously design water hazards as an additional attraction and beautification element of the golf course.

Every golf game becomes more interesting and challenging most especially if the golf ball lands in a water hazard. Basically a water hazard is any natural or man-made body of water which is situated within the golf course's premises. Since water hazards add more fun to a typical golf trip, many golf resorts meticulously design water hazards as an additional attraction and beautification element of the golf course.

During the 1960's, several major golf games were televised. Water hazards boosted interesting features to the golf course and and at the same time water hazards were sources of excitement to both player and spectator. Because water hazards became important golf course and golf game elements, most golf vacation destinations architecturally planned and created unique water hazards. Landscape architects however always make sure not to over design water hazards throughout the course as hazards generally decrease a player's playing performance. If a golf ball always ends up in a water hazard, there is a great chance that the golfer gets more annoyed thus enjoyment is reduced.

Water hazards can be a man-made or natural feature. A golf vacation resort that is situated beside an ocean, lake, or river utilizes this body of water as hazards in the golf course. Most of the time, these natural water features are used as main attractions of a golf resort. They give unique characteristics to a golf course which distinguishes them from other resorts. A man-made water hazard consists of an artificial lake, pond, waterways, canals, or other constructed passageways. Landscape architects carefully design these artificial water hazards to avoid damage to the natural environment. Moreover, water features should blend in with the natural environment so that it will look more natural and dramatic.

A good landscape architect will design water hazards such as lakes, which are visible from a far. Water hazards should not be situated uphill as they will not be easily spotted unless the golfer is close enough the hazard. Naturally, water forms around low and shallow areas. If a water hazard is placed on a higher location, it will look more artificial aside from it will have a more difficult time to naturally gather water from rains.

Many water hazards are designed to please a golfer's eye. Landscape architects should consider good breeding grounds for flora and fauna around water hazards. In addition, creating good water hazards also require high expenses. A certain golf vacation destination which has abundant rainfall throughout the year is lucky to enough to save from water and maintenance expenses. Landscape architects normally create canals to transport abundant water supplies. As a result, they can design meandering streams or rivers within the course. On the other hand, other areas which has less rainfall may need higher maintenance costs to preserve water hazards. Creating large water hazards for these places may not be very practical. Given different scenarios and weather conditions, landscape architects should consider budget costs, environmental synergy, and playing performance.

During the 1960's, several major golf games were televised. Water hazards boosted interesting features to the golf course and and at the same time water hazards were sources of excitement to both player and spectator. Because water hazards became important golf course and golf game elements, most golf vacation destinations architecturally planned and created unique water hazards. Landscape architects however always make sure not to over design water hazards throughout the course as hazards generally decrease a player's playing performance. If a golf ball always ends up in a water hazard, there is a great chance that the golfer gets more annoyed thus enjoyment is reduced.

Water hazards can be a man-made or natural feature. A golf vacation resort that is situated beside an ocean, lake, or river utilizes this body of water as hazards in the golf course. Most of the time, these natural water features are used as main attractions of a golf resort. They give unique characteristics to a golf course which distinguishes them from other resorts. A man-made water hazard consists of an artificial lake, pond, waterways, canals, or other constructed passageways. Landscape architects carefully design these artificial water hazards to avoid damage to the natural environment. Moreover, water features should blend in with the natural environment so that it will look more natural and dramatic.

A good landscape architect will design water hazards such as lakes, which are visible from a far. Water hazards should not be situated uphill as they will not be easily spotted unless the golfer is close enough the hazard. Naturally, water forms around low and shallow areas. If a water hazard is placed on a higher location, it will look more artificial aside from it will have a more difficult time to naturally gather water from rains.

Many water hazards are designed to please a golfer's eye. Landscape architects should consider good breeding grounds for flora and fauna around water hazards. In addition, creating good water hazards also require high expenses. A certain golf vacation destination which has abundant rainfall throughout the year is lucky to enough to save from water and maintenance expenses. Landscape architects normally create canals to transport abundant water supplies. As a result, they can design meandering streams or rivers within the course. On the other hand, other areas which has less rainfall may need higher maintenance costs to preserve water hazards. Creating large water hazards for these places may not be very practical. Given different scenarios and weather conditions, landscape architects should consider budget costs, environmental synergy, and playing performance.

Take a swing at this Myrtle Beach Golf School!

I had the opportunity to take the Ritson-Sole Golf School for a test drive about two months ago and it has really helped my game. The Ritson-Sole Golf School is one of the top 25 golf schools in the country per Golf Magazine's rankings. They are now located at both Pawleys Plantation on the south end of the beach and at Grande Dunes on the north end (their newest location). They offer three, two, and one day classes, as well as morning or afternoon part day instruction.

I was part of a small group, 2-hour lesson which had 2 instructors for about 8-9 golfers working on their game. We were able to work with Mel Sole and David Olberding who were great at helping all of us. From instructing the beginner on the basics to the pro with subtle changes, these guys were great.

In addition to the small group size and getting specific instruction for your own unique swing, they also offer video swing analysis which is a great tool to see the minute details of your swing. This really comes in handy and I will re-watch the video right before heading to my local range to know what exactly I need to be focusing on.

If you are interested in learning more about the Ritson-Sole Golf School, or would like to set up a session with them along with your Myrtle Beach golf trip give me, Mike Alfano a call at 888.276.9589 or email mike@golfzoo.com

Visiting a Golf Trip Paradise Through Pebble Beach

Situated in Pebble Beach, California, the Pebble Beach Golf Links offer the most scenic views in the west coast of United States. Spending your golf vacation here by far will be the most memorable moment in your whole golfing career. The Pebble Beach Golf Links hugs rugged coastlines opening to the Pacific Ocean. Open views of Carmel Bay can be enjoyed by visitors who wish to stroll and explore the whole golf resort. Being the first public course ranked as Number 1 by Golf Digest in 2001, the Pebble Beach Golf Links is regarded as the most beautiful course in the world. In 2008, green fees start from $495 and an additional of $35 cart fee for non resort guests will be charged. World class tournaments are also widely held in Pebble Beach Golf Links including AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am and 11 USGA championships. The Pebble Beach Golf Links is the only resort to host both the Champions Tour event and the FedEx Cup in the same season yearly.

Opened in February 22, 1919, the Pebble Beach Golf Links was designed by Douglas Grant and Jack Neville. In 1990s, this golf vacation destination was bought by the Japanese investors. Several years later, the Pebble Beach Co. bought the golf resort from the Japanese investors. Throughout the history, the Pebble Beach Golf Links has been visited by famous people namely: Clint Eastwood, Teddy Roosevelt, Jack Nicklaus, Samuel Morse, Bobby Jones, Winston Churchill, Bill Murray, and Tiger Woods. As Neville intends to bring as many holes to the rocky coastline as possible, he designed the first two holes as inland while the third runs to the ocean. Along the coast lies the fourth and fifth holes. In 1998, various changes to improve the Pebble Beach Golf Links has been done. New bunkers are then added to each fairways to make each round more challenging for golfers of any skill level.

Aside from the breath taking views that golfers can experience, the Pebble Beach Golf Links also offers various affordable golf vacation packages. These packages include Fall & Winter, Spring & Summer, and Year Round golf and spa packages. By visiting their website, golfers can view more special offers depending on the season. It's always cheaper to book tee times in off peak seasons and hotel accommodations are also cheaper in non peak seasons. Golfers in a budget can still enjoy the luxurious experience of staying in Pebble Beach by picking golf trip dates wisely and effectively. Visitors have the widest options to satisfy their stomachs with different menus served by varied restaurants along the resort. Visitors can also shop freely as numerous golf pro shops are accessible from the Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Stonegate Golf Club

One of the best, but oft ignored ways of creating a Florida golf course is by drafting a course layout that meshes all too perfectly with the natural contours of the land. The diversity of the Florida terrain is more often than not, ignored. One too many golf course designers decide to move the earth a little too much to create a replica of this and of that, forgetting how unique and special their land is.

Thankfully, though, there still are a lot of golf course designers who have recognized this fact. And they have so lovingly created golf courses that not only respect Florida's natural endowments; they have made them the highlight of their creations bringing out the best in both Mother Nature and the genius of the creator.

One such golf vacation destination is the Stonegate Golf Club in Poinciana, Florida, just a little outside of Orlando. Stonegate's two courses are very distinct but very complimentary in that, a visit here would never be complete by just playing on one. Let the Oaks Course and the Cypress Course tell their own story.


Oaks Course
A Ron Garl original layout, the course is one with lots of water on the holes, and elevated greens set amidst a backdrop of well-preserved wetlands and marshlands. Its oversized fairway bunkers and waste areas and countless mounds snake through native vegetation. As its name implies, huge oaks – many of which are a hundred years or older – top the list of its native vegetation. This course has four sets of tees, measuring more than 7000 yards from the longest tees. Four sets of tees make this course especially inviting for golfers of all skill levels.

Cypress Course
Stonegate's Cypress Course is another testament to the great work done and reputation held by the Clifton, Ezell and Clifton design team here in Central Florida. As the trio did in all their other course creations, the Cypress Course brings that stunning quality of being perfectly meshed with the environment. Not only are native flora and fauna growing abundantly here; they provide the scenic backdrop for an even greater golf layout. The course may have really large bunkers that look too daunting, but the fairways are wide so as not to feel claustrophobic. Water plays on 14 of its 18 holes and follows the dictates and contours of the land. It measures 6,800 yards from the tips, par 72, with three other sets of tees for other handicaps.


The natural beauty of the Sunshine State cannot be denied. Whilst the bustling urban jungle is what's on the forefront of it, exploring places such as the Stonegate will better remind people how great Florida naturally is. And as for golf trips, it is always best to try both courses. Not that one course will leave you longing and unsatisfied; it is just always at best with seconds!

Grand Resorts Properties in Florida

I've been selling golf packages for Golf Zoo in Florida for around 7 years now.  Recently 3 resorts in Florida have been purchased by Salamander Hospitality group.  The three properties are Innisbrook in Tampa, Reunion in Orlando and Hammock Beach in Palm Coast.  These are all nice properties and are all unique in what they offer a group of golfers.  I'm going to give our readers my honest (as I always do) opinion of these three properties, again this is just my opinion.

Innisbrook/Tampa, Florida:

This property has been around for quite awhile.  The lodging portion of the property is 40+ years old.  The new owners have come in over the last couple of years and really upgraded the units. There is basically 4  room types - deluxe guest room, junior suite, one bedroom suite and two bedroom suite.  All the lodging types have upgraded furniture, bedding, tv's, etc...  The property has upgraded their dining options and even added a great bar and outdoor patio area at the main check-in office.  A nice thing for the client while staying there is access to shuttle service to get around the property, by just picking up the phone.

Golf - the resort has four golf courses on site.  The most talked about and know is the famed Copperhead Golf Course - home of a PGA Tour event.  I have played this golf course numerous times and really enjoy it.  It is a difficult golf course which offers a lot of different hole types.  My second favorite course at Innisbrook is The Island Golf Course.  This course also offers a great layout, but is more forgiving than the Copperhead course. The other two courses are the South and North and I prefer the South more than the North.  The South is a little different than the other courses on property and offers more of a links feel.  The North is a shot makers course for sure - not long, but very tight and penal if you game is off.

There are mainly two package types we offer at this resort - keep in mind that Innisbrook is a stay and play property, as all three resorts are - meaning, you have to stay there to play there.

Our first package is the Classic Stay and Play.  In a nutshell, you get a round of golf  for each night you stay at the resort, along with use of practice range.  This is my opinion is our more popular package because of the price point for our clients.  The second package we offer is the Preferred Stay and Play.  The main difference is you get a round on arrival and departure - basically an extra round beyond the number of nights you stay.  This package also includes breakfast, use of range and a small arrival gift bag.  In most cases this package can double the Classic Stay and Play package in price - not sure if the extra round and breakfast warrant the golfer to pay that much more - again, just my opinion.

Again, you have to stay at this resort in order to play the courses.

Reunion Resort/Orlando, Florida:

This is a fantastic 54 hole property, my opinion - one of the best properties in Florida.  The resort is a large property consisting of 3 restaurants and a couple of bars at the main check in area.  The property itself has numerous lodging choices that consist of 2 and 3 bedroom villas along 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 bedroom homes.  The villa types are either deluxe or superior villa's.  Both types are really nice, basically not a huge difference in villas.  The villas will have one more bed than the number of bedrooms, basically 3 beds in a 2 bedroom and 4 beds in a 3 bedroom.  As far as the homes, similar type description - deluxe and superior.  The resort has numerous pool through out the villa complexes, a great practice range and a water park.

Golf - There are three great courses on site.  Legacy is the Arnold Palmer designed course.  This is probably the easiest of the three courses.  This course is fairly forgiving, especially off the tee.  There is some water and bunkers, but nothing that is too penal.  Tradition is the Jack Nicklaus designed course.  This is the newest of the three courses and has grown in popularity with the golfers.  This particular course is away from the main clubhouse.  This is a tough golf course, but very enjoyable.  Independence is the Tom Watson designed course.  This is my favorite course of the three.  This has a variety of great holes with numerous bunkers, very well placed.

Again, you have to stay at Reunion Resort in order to play the courses.

Hammock Beach/Palm Coast, Florida:

Hammock Beach is a fantastic ocean front property, located about 30 minutes north of  Daytona Beach, Florida.  Due to its location, you have two options as far as International airports.  Jacksonville airport - 80 mile drive to Hammock Beach.  Orlando airport - 100 mile drive to Hammock Beach.  Two other airports that you can also check are Daytona airport and Sanford airport, both small airports - but may offer options.

This resort consists of four lodging properties, three types on site and one off site.  The three properties on site are the following:  The lodge, located on the ocean and consist of hotel rooms, both ocean view and ocean front. The main building, again on the ocean.  This building will have 3 and 4 bedroom villas, again both ocean view and ocean front (main tower). The Resort view buildings, located behind the main building and offer 2 and 3 bedroom tropical view units.  As with Reunion, the villas will have one more bed than the number of bedrooms listed.  The offsite property which is on the Inter-coastal and offer 2 and 3 bedroom units.  The Resort View units and the off site Inter-coastal units are the least expensive of the 4 unit types, but are very nice.  The resort has a restaurant on the second floor of the lodge.  It has a nice restaurant and a sushi bar in the main tower building, along with a bar area for dancing.  My favorite is the cigar lounge - large leather chairs and couches with a small bar area and it's own walk in humidor.  There is a fantastic pool and outdoor area between the main building and the ocean that offers food and drinks.  There is a lazy river, and two pools in the main area, along with a huge hot tub.  The lodge also has it's own adult only pool area - more secluded.

Golf - The property has two courses.  The Ocean Course is the Jack Nicklaus designed course.  Nicklaus considered this as his Pebble Beach of the East Coast.  This course has 6 holes with either the ocean behind the Green or Tee and two of those holes (9 and 18) are par 4's that run right along side the ocean.  Most of the inland holes are tree lined and bordered by water.  The Conservatory is the Tom Watson designed course.  This may be my favorite course of all the courses I have mentioned!  This is an offsite course, about 10-15 minutes max from the main building.  Tom Watson considers this, "one of his best designed courses".  This course is very pretty and offers a lot of different challenges for the golfer.

Again, you have to stay at Hammock Beach in order to play the courses.

Overall these are three unique properties that has something for every group of golfers.  None of these resorts I would consider inexpensive, but each one is worth the money in it's own way.  If  I had to rank each facility in order of the best overall package - I consider that lodging and golf.  I would rank them in this order - Reunion Resort, then Hammock Beach, then Innisbrook.  This doesn't mean that any of them are bad or lower end properties - just my preference and opinion.

I hope this helps our Golf  Zoo customers with some insight to some properties in Florida that we offer.  Please feel free to contact me to put together you next Florida golf package getaway.  I can be reached directly at 888.333.6103 or by email - glen@golfzoo.com.

The Right Attitude to Become a Good Putter

In every sport, confidence is the main driving power to continue to succeed. Such is highly important in golf, especially in learning how to become a master putter. Having such will-power will allow anyone to get that ball in the hole even from a three feet distance. Once players are able to capture that confidence, it is time for them to think about getting into other attitudes in order to be come a tough putter.

Don't dwell on mistakes.

There are unforgivable moments in a game. Missing a short putt on the last hole, for example, can become utterly unforgettable. Players can dwell on this unfortunate incident, or they can move on and recover just like a professional. Being haunted with such mistake for life is impractical. What a player can do is take note of the things that he or she should have done, and use it on the next attempt.

Praise yourself often.

It's not even about becoming narcissistic. Praising can do a lot of motivation to players. This means putting away with all the negative memory of missed putts, and dwelling on those that worked. Praising oneself is a confidence booster – something that all players from different fields use, and something that coaches are experts on.

Get Real!

Sometimes, players would assess a play as impossible. This is not the same as getting real. To get real means to shoo negative attitudes and just go beyond the present caliber. The human body is made to improve and go beyond borders, anyway. .

Capture the Jack Nicklaus.

Jack Nicklaus did not become a legendary golfer and architect for nothing. He also encountered missing  putts. However, Nicklaus chooses to recall the putts that he misses and uses it to do well with the present one to overcome.

Nicklaus also separates himself from the rest of the competitors. He tries hard not to compare his skills to other people's abilities. What he does is make an effort to outmatch his own records.

Change your thinking.

To become a great putter really means changing mindsets. This means that players should think more about the power of self-perception and visualize about getting better at a putt. “All the mind works best”, here. And it is supported by an unrelenting drive to improve.

No one was born to be an expert, but many were made to be one. With a positive self-perception and great effort, every amateur player would become an expert putter in no time.

Your Responsibilities and Order Play

As players, golfers are not freed from the constant responsibility and order of play. In fact, those details are the main driving standards at winning or loosing, aside from confidence and natural talent of a player. Below are the details to lay them all down.

A Player's Responsibilities

• A player is responsible for determining his or her handicap and the specific holes where such handicap strokes are to be employed.
• A player is given the responsibility to declare the handicap that he or she is entitled to. He or she can be subject to disqualification once he or she declares a lower or a higher handicap where he or she belongs.
• In a stroke play, golfers may be disqualified if they record a higher or a lower handicap which they are not entitled to.
• Players are responsible for any violation their caddie might do, and they are to receive the applicable penalty for it.
• A player must play prompt and should not practice a stroke during a round.

A player's Order of Play

• The first to begin the hole is the player who was determined by draw at the first teeing ground.
• As a golf etiquette, Honor is made to allow players, with the lowest score, to tee off first at the next hole. In terms of tie, who ever held the honor on the previous hole makes a go first.
• Honors also identify the first to shot in between the tee and the hole.
• Anyone who is farthest from the hole is to play first.

Those are just some of the responsibilities and etiquette in a golf game. There are more things to consider as a player becomes an expert on the game. Of course, with being an expert on the skills comes being a specialist on the good habits. Take note of that!

Southern Hills Plantation

I recently had the opportunity to play a fantastic private country club - Southern Hills Plantation in Brooksville, Florida.

Nestled within the rolling hills of Brooksville, Florida, Southern Hills Plantation provides a unique terrain.  Elevations of 60 to nearly 250 feet provide a truly unique opportunity for golfers at the Pete Dye Signature golf course.  Designed to maximize natural elevations and views, the private 18 hole course is rated by Golf Week as one of the top 100 residential courses in the United States.

The golf experience is elevated to new heights with generous course corridors, expansive landing areas and natural buffers that frame each hole.  Pete Dye designed a superb practice facility including a driving range, chipping and putting greens and a six hole par three course.

Southern Hills is available for play through Golf Zoo.  The golf course is under the Natures Coast Golf Trail and is currently included on one of our Hot Deals for that area - http://www.golfzoo.com/-screen-scnSell_Special-_ispost-1-.htm  We have a couple of hotels in the Brooksville area along with a half dozen great courses to compliment Southern Hills Plantation.  The Brooksville area can be axis-ed from either Orlando or Tampa - about an hour drive from each area.

Please contact glen@golfzoo.com or mark@golfzoo.com for other details and any other great summer packages in Florida. 

Desert Springs Resort, Palm Springs California

Palm Springs, California Is A Perfect 

Golf Vacation Destination!!

Palm Springs is a short drive away from Los Angeles making this perfect desert paradise a favorite go to escape plan for many of Hollywood's golf enthusiasts. Hollywood's famous names bring their superstar clubs and high profile selves when visiting the greens of Palm Springs. The celebrities choice for golf vacations are the Palm Course and the Valley Course located at the Desert Springs Golf Resort. 

Desert Springs Golf Resort is a 36-hole facility and has epitomes of high class treatment. The scenery and playable area on the courses will fulfill any golfer's dream vacation. The Palm Course and the Valley Course were designed by acclaimed architect Ted Robinson, "King of Waters-capes" and have made Desert Springs  the premier California golf resort that it is today.

On both 18-hole courses: Golfer's can take a high tech drive in one of our new golf carts with state-of-the-art navigational and computing systems. Right from your cart, you can use your onboard computer to view graphic layouts of each hole, compute exact yardage to the pin, monitor pace-of-play, and solicit tips from the course's pro on playing a particular hole. The result is faster playtime, lower scores, and a more enjoyable game. In addition, your lunch or snack can be ordered as you tee off from the 18th hole and be waiting for you at Sand Trap & Wedge for the perfect end to a great round.

The Greens at Desert Springs Putting Course: Created to provide golfers of all ages and abilities an enjoyable golf adventure, The Greens at Desert Springs - our 18-hole championship putting course - is the perfect solution. The nation's first, all-natural turf putting course combines all aspects of a full length course: sand bunkers, water hazards, strategically placed trees, and rolling "fairways" all played with just a putter. The par 54, 1,435-foot course is truly "golf in miniature," but big-time fun for individuals, families, or group events.

The Palm Course and the Valley Course are park of the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa in Palm Desert, California. It provides visitors with stylish surroundings and views any well seasoned traveler desires. The emerald fairways for their Palm Desert Golf Courses and mountains that seem to touch the ski wins over any golf lovers heart. 

Please Contact Our Golf Zoo Travel Specialist To Book A Golf Vacation 

To Palm Springs, California TODAY!!

Please Call: 800-929-7300