HOW TO REALLY ENJOY YOUR GOLF VACATION IN SOUTH EAST ASIA

According to a recent R&A report, as the world’s largest and most populous continent, it is perhaps unsurprising that Asia has more golfers than any other continent in this report.

Since the pandemic, SE Asia, and in particular Thailand and Vietnam has seen a massive increase in bookings from international golfers keen to experience some great championship courses and some unique cultural experiences.

However, playing golf in this region is not exactly the same as back home, so we asked Peter McCarthy, Managing Director of leading tour operator Go Golfing for his tips on how to get the best out of your trip.

Go Golfing in partnership with Golfasian has been especially successful in introducing professionally run amateur golf tournaments in Thailand and Vietnam.

In 2023 upwards of 2,000 golf vacationers from approximately 28 countries have contested the tournaments with more than 500 golfers teeing off in the week-long Centara World Masters in Hua Hin.

So, what is Peter’s advice for planning and getting the best out of your vacation, whether it be a golf holiday or an organized tour or a tournament?

Peter explained that while golf is the hero in any holiday, incorporating iconic sights and attractions, experiencing the culture and traditions, can really elevate the experience and your enjoyment.

Peter said, “It makes sense to choose the best time weatherwise to visit SE Asia. It is certainly worth asking your tour operator about the local climate to avoid the rainy season. That said, many of the courses we recommend are quite new and are engineered with the best drainage.”

“Having a tropical climate means there are downpours, however, the course design and drainage is such that within minutes of a major downpour your are back playing,” added Peter.

A hallmark of Golfasian and Go Golfing’s success in their experience ensures a hassle free holiday and their commitment to your enjoyment is unrivalled.

Whether you travel on your own or with a group of friends, you are bound to make more friends, especially at their popular tournaments and 19th hole parties.

“The well-trained and beautiful caddies add more joy to the golfing experience. They chauffeur you in a golf cart, share course knowledge, distance and read your putts, fill divots, rake bunkers and are fabulous at finding your ball after an errant shot. It is customary to give your caddie a minimum US$10 tip at the end of the round, more if you’ve had a great day and some birdies!”

“It can be hot, especially in the middle of the day, so pack the sunscreen and fill up on fluids at the on-course kiosks. The caddies will also hold an umbrella, to protect you from the sun.”

“On your days off and for non-golfing partners we can curate a myriad of activities and experiences to suit your interests and budget. Cooking classes, visiting historical sites, markets and being pampered in an Asian spa are popular choices,“ added Peter.

The choices are endless, and SE Asia is ready to welcome golfers from around the globe. Enjoy.

Peter McCarthy

Founder & Chief Entertainment Officer

FOR THE LOVE OF GOLF AND TRAVEL