Some Pointers for an Enjoyable Golf Holiday at Hartland Golf Clubs

Tony Smart’s article for CNN Travel discusses some important considerations when planning a golf holiday outside the state or country. Smart explains how you can maximize your journey if you know your destination well and if you’re prepared to deal with issues that might occur along the way. He suggests that golf enthusiasts should learn about cost variations among golf courses and some travel policies to observe. One example of a travel policy you must keep in mind is the use of TSA-approved locks for golf flight bags.

Better known as the TSA, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration has wide-ranging powers when it comes to ensuring the safety of travel in the United States. Use a TSA-approved lock for your suitcases and golf flight bags. These can be opened with a special tool by all customs officers around the world and then relocked. They’re also extraordinarily difficult for bag snatchers to open.

For a more convenient journey, do not bring your golf bag with you. Smart mentions that some airlines charge extra for such baggage. Besides, most golf clubs in the country can provide the clubs. Leading golf courses in states like Michigan, particularly in Hartland of Oakland County, have most of the basic golf equipment you need. Some even have caddies you can hire to make golfing more convenient.

Many golfers can’t afford a caddy every time they hit the links—they’re expensive if you’re playing golf in Ireland, the United Kingdom or the United States. But in many countries, especially the emerging golf destinations, caddies are cheap, frequently costing between US$5-10 a round, cheaper than a buggy. Caddies are often good players themselves and can be particularly helpful at reading putts on strange greens.

If you’re a golf newbie and have decided to get serious with the sport, you might find it more practical to join a golf club to take advantage of opportunities exclusive to members. Expert golfers recommend Hartland golf clubs like Faulkwood Shores Golf Club, which offer promos that help new members or beginner golfers get value-for-money.

Golf is considered a rich man’s game. However, some golf courses in Oakland County, MI open their doors to golf enthusiasts who cannot afford to play regularly or pay the basic fees for tees. Just by volunteering to perform common tasks, such as fixing ball marks on the green and cleaning golf carts, they can experience the sport they long for – for free.

(From: 10 tips for getting the most from your golf holiday, CNN.com, April 16, 2013)