There is nothing quite like playing golf in paradise, but the journey and experience often come with some challenges. As I was marveling at the views from the Dye Fore courses during my recent trip to Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic, I was quietly annoyed that my poor reception was keeping me from being able to share my delight (and subtle boasting) with my Instagram followers in the moment.

Fortunately, I had my one of my all-time favorite golf gear gadgets, the Solis portable WiFi hotspot, in my golf bag, so I was able to fire that up and boost my signal for when it was time to kick back at Chilango Taqueria for a post-round mezcalita. Still, I wondered if there’s a better solution for bringing WiFi with me, and it turns out that Solis already has the answer.

Solis 5G Mobile WiFi Hotspot

It might be time to host a retirement ceremony for my old WiFi hotspot now that Solis has changed the game once more with the 5G Mobile WiFi Hotspot. While I’d have loved to head out to another Caribbean course to test this one, it arrived in time for Florida’s storm season, and my old house loses power and WiFi the moment a light breeze picks up. I figured there’s no better way to test a new hotspot than when Mother Nature does her thing.

With a new digital interface, activating and using the hotspot is easier than ever. In moments of desperation, using the app to operate the previous version could be complicated if my phone was getting no reception. However, the 5G model is as simple as turn on and connect to the best available signal—that is, once you’ve registered and subscribed to the best data plan for your needs.

That, of course, is the million-dollar question: how much do you need? And the answer relies on how much you plan to use it. The so-called digital nomads will likely want the biggest and best plan for setting up shop in those beautiful locations where there’s no connectivity so they can post the obligatory “my office for today” photos. But the occasional traveling golfer and anyone who wants a Plan B device for power outages will enjoy a basic plan. No matter the scenario, this 5G hotspot is bound to become every traveler’s new best friend.

Blue Tees Golf Player Pack

Now, let’s talk about a gift that will make your favorite golfer smile from ear to ear—especially on the links. Blue Tees Golf has quickly become one of the most buzzworthy names in accessories, because the gear is just sublime. And there’s no better way to stock up on this equipment than by picking up the Player Pack, which boats two of the brand’s best items at a big-time discount with two additional items providing even more convenience.

The Series 3 laser max rangefinder alone is an item that will help a basic golfer get a better feel for the game, and the Player speaker is ideal for providing a soundtrack and keeping your iPhone charged. Joining them in this pack are the MagHub, which keeps the other two items attached and organized in your bag and cart, and also a multitool that includes a divot repair, ball marker, groove cleaner, club tee, and bottle opener.

Sure, the giftee might be thrilled, but the gifter should be pleased, too, because this limited edition offering also comes with a nice discount.

Monoprice Power Bank

Aside from connectivity, battery life should be your biggest concern. Especially if you’re carrying an iPhone, Airpods, a watch, and the rest of the gadgets I’m about to list below. Let’s start with the basics, though, and choose a portable battery charger that packs enough punch to handle your most important digital accessories.

Monoprice offers a trio of power banks that can handle everything from one phone to your whole kit. The simple choice for the minimalist traveler is the Monoprice Power Bank 44369, which has a capacity of 10,000mAh or, for those of us who don’t speak tech, enough for two or three full phone charges. This is especially great for couples because it has a dual port for charging poolside or at the beach. The 44370 model can handle as many as three devices, or 4-6 phone charges, and the 44371 is the big dog of the bunch, allowing 4-6 rapid charges for five devices.

Shot Scope X5 GPS Golf Watch

Three things made my game significantly better this year: my Takomo 101 irons, a borderline miraculous visit to The Kingdom at Reynolds Lake Oconee, and the Shot Scope X5 GPS Golf Watch. I was always skeptical of the need to know the distance to the pin from every spot on the course, but that’s obviously dumb. When you hit the ball as many bad places as I do, you most certainly need to know the crucial numbers for getting back on the right path.

Not only does the X5 act as a personal digital caddy in that capacity, but it also makes finding and adding courses a breeze. And that’s just one of the many exceptional touches this watch offers, as it also comes with 16 club tags for performance tracking, keeps track of your real time scoring, and counts your steps from the car to the clubhouse and beyond.

RipIt Monsters Ink Putter Grip

Want to make new friends on the golf course? Add RipIt Grips to your clubs, sit back, and wait for the comments to pour in. At every course I have played since having my clubs re-gripped with the Marilyn, Uncle Sam, Geo, and other various designs, other golfers, cart attendants, and even the pros and instructors have asked me about them. In a sport that has long lacked personality and character, people love seeing this kind of creativity in and around our golf bags.

Now, RipIt has rolled out its first putter grip, and the design is an indicator of the Australian brand’s plans for the future. The Monsters Ink concept is a collaboration with Aussie artist Happy Decay, who has already worked with companies like Nike, Prada, and Porsche, among others, and it is just the beginning of exciting partnership with emerging artists. Judging by how quickly golfers jumped on this one, that means great things for upcoming swing grips featuring the works of Evan Weselmann, Nori Okawa, and Renato Flores.

Lucyd Lite 2.0 Sunglasses

Whether traveling for work or a family vacation, I love golfing alone. Getting out on a course at the crack of dawn and knowing there’s not a soul in front of me does wonders for keeping the golf demons in my head from ruining 18 holes. It also allows me to listen to my favorite playlists, which I usually do with one of my portable speakers. However, when I am traveling as light as possible, and with my favorite caddy already on my wrist, I recently discovered a new way to save bag space, keep the sun out of my eyes, bring my music along, and look great while doing it all: the Lucyd Lite 2.0 Sunglasses.

The first time I tried a pair of Bluetooth shades, I thought they were clunky and aggravating, but I should have known that time would cure all ills. Lucyd’s new offering is a slimmer, lighter style that looks good for any occasion, so you can wear them even in those moments when you don’t need a soundtrack. Aside from golf, these sunglasses are also great for exploring, sightseeing, or simply relaxing on an empty beach.

Tifosi Swank XL Sunglasses

What are the most important aspects we look for in a pair of golf sunglasses? Durability, for starters—especially when you’re playing a course in the Caribbean and Mexico, where ocean breezes hit you with a salty mist that can wreak havoc on lenses. If you need one pair to go from the course to the resort and beyond, style matters just as much. And if you’re worried about possibly losing them or leaving them in the cart by accident, price is also near the top of your list.

Enter: Tifosi Swank XL. While I love having a pair of floating sunglasses that I can use on land or water, a lighter frame has one serious drawback: it slips right off my face when I’m sweating heavily. This is a huge problem on my home courses in Florida as well as my Caribbean favorites like Old Quarry Curacao and Royal Turks and Caicos, so the Swank XL is a terrific solution. The hydrophilic rubber frame actually increases its grip when it gets wet, so sweat, rain, and ocean water are no concern. And at just $25, it’s a hell of a bargain on a classic look with cool color variety.

Tomo Golf Bravo Shoes

Have you ever had a Cinderella moment with a new pair of shoes? You’re not sure they’re the right style or fit just by looking at them, but you give it a shot anyway and it ends up being the best pair of shoes you’ve ever worn? That’s basically what happened when I recently tried on my first pair of Tomo Golf’s Bravo shoes, because this is a stylish and insanely comfortable concept that will undoubtedly only keep getting better.

For starters, the simple, fun style allows for the Bravo to be worn anywhere, which is clutch for anyone who needs to keep the backpack light (the shoe weighs just a tick under 11 oz.). But what I love most about this new essential is the extra cushion in the heel, as it saves my sensitive heels from scraping against the back of the shoe (the sacrifices I make to keep wearing no-see socks) and just flat-out feels fantastic. That goes a long way when your travels take you an even longer way.

The post 8 Gift Ideas for the Casual Golfer You Think Already has Everything appeared first on Islands.

Of all the made-up holidays we celebrate because we simply love celebrating anything, National Golf Month might be the one that is the most unnecessary. For most golfers, no matter how good or bad we are, rain or shine or mind-blowingly hot, we never stop thinking about this sport that is both wonderful and mean, so I’ll just borrow a cliché and state the obvious: every month is National Golf Month.

Still, it’s a holiday and you and the golfer in your life deserve to be pampered. If anything, a nice gift will hopefully add a little positivity to your mojo or add a little swagger to your profile. From the irons to the shoes, here’s the gear I’m absolutely loving right now.

Takomo 101 Irons

One of my favorite things about my Takomo 101 Irons—aside from the affordability and fact that they might have been crafted by wizards—is watching this company take off and become one of the hottest new names in the game. Some of the sport’s most popular influencers are now riding the Takomo wave, and it’s simply thrilling to see more and more people learn firsthand what I’ve been screaming for at least a year: these irons are absolutely phenomenal.

First and foremost, they are extremely forgiving and swing like a breeze. Switching from a “major” brand to Takomo made me wonder if I was making a mistake, but the experts behind this concept had people like me in mind, as the 101s were designed for casual and beginner golfers who don’t have time to practice daily. Even my much better friends—and two instructors—confessed how much they love swinging my irons and the Takomo Skyforger wedges as well.

Equally important, though, is that the traveling golfer should love them because the price is low enough that lost or damaged luggage won’t feel like a stock market crash. Not that you want to lose your sticks, obviously, but less money spent means more for a high-quality travel case (like Samsonite’s hard case that says, “I’m all business, even in paradise”) or this next accessory…

Stewart Golf VERTX Remote Trolley

As the temperature (hopefully) declines, golfers who love to play for the fitness value will prefer to walk more and leave the carts at the clubhouse. Obviously, that either means lugging a heavy bag around for 18 holes or choosing the right trolley, and UK-based Stewart Golf has made it clear that the VERTX Remote is the only trolley for the job.

What makes this one so special? Its coolest capability basically allows it to do the caddy things the tech accessories can’t do for you: bring you your clubs. Golfers will love using the Active Terrain Control feature to summon their trolleys from up to 100 yards away. That’s especially great for those moments when you know darn well you’re holding the wrong club and don’t want the people behind you shaking their fists in rage.

Instead, they’ll be staring in awe.

ORCA Golf Customized Bag

Hey, if you’re getting new irons and a fancy remote trolley to carry them, you might as well have the hottest personalized bag in the game. And forget a cart bag with your name stitched on the side, because the intricate process used by this creative team will leave no doubt in any golfer’s mind that this is not their bag when they mistake their own for all the other similar brand names at the clubhouse.

Instead, ORCA allows you to choose the bag model and then upload whatever logos, artwork, and colors you prefer, so if you want to be the only dude on the course with a “Macho Man” Randy Savage bag, go right ahead and do it. (Except please don’t because that’s my idea.)

Carl’s Place Mevo+ TeeParty Golf Simulator Package

You know that old joke about how you’ll know if a person is a vegan (“they’ll tell you!”)? Well, that’s how I feel about golfers who have simulators set up in their homes. Except I love hearing all about them, and I love it even more when I’m invited to play them, because they’re just so much fun (and I don’t have to worry about being on a packed Florida course, somehow with a 5-some playing into us while we wait for the twosome in front of us to six-putt /endrant). Choosing one is, of course, the hardest part, but fortunately Carl’s Place makes it too dang easy.

Obviously, space plays an important part in the selection process, so the new Mevo+ TeeParty Golf Simulator Package offers golfers multiple sizes of the C-Series DIY Golf Enclosure Kit (which includes the premium impact screen) so they can plan and play accordingly. Also included are the FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Edition launch monitor, BenQ LU710 Golf Simulator Projector, and the 5’x8′ Country Club Elite Golf Mat. And while the serious golfers will love the analysis and tracking features of the Creative Golf 3D Software for Mevo+, young players will get the golf itch by playing a variety of fun games that will provide indoor entertainment and instructional insight.

The only thing missing is the swagger, and that comes with the simulator apparel from Carl’s Place, because why not increase the comfort while dominating virtual courses?

True Linkswear FS-Slide

Of all the news I heard at this year’s PGA Show, one of the most exciting revelations came from the team at True Linskwear, the geniuses behind my favorite footwear for on and off the course. When I first learned about this brand, it was because people were raving about the All Day Knit 2—arguably the best shoe in travel and golf. This simple, stylish concept has been ideal for anyone who packs light and needs an “all of the above” shoe, as I wear mine on the plane, at the resort, and on the course.

So, how does that get any better? With the introduction of the True All Day Knit 3, which offers better heel padding for those of us who wear no-see socks and have sensitive heels. But before I could even celebrate this new shoe, the team behind it all let me on a big secret: resort wear is coming. And now it’s here, starting with the “Golf and Leisure Club” drop.

I wanted to just highlight everything, but your attention spans won’t allow that. So, I’ve chosen my absolute favorite for, again, travel and golf: the True FS-Slide, an extremely comfortable sandal option for those moments when you don’t need full coverage. From the resort pool to the 19^th hole, give your feet a break with exceptional style. (And this slide pairs oh so nicely with the All Day Vacay Button Up, too.)

Blue Tees Player+ GPS Speaker

Bluetooth GPS speakers are all the rage right now and having tried several I’ll admit they’ve helped. But then I caught wind of the buzz building around Blue Tees Golf’s tech-sessories—especially the 3 Max rangefinder, which has earned rave reviews—and early tests of the Player+ GPS Speaker are coming back unanimously positive.

What sets this model apart from other speakers, including those from the biggest name brands, is the touch screen display that shares the hole, its specs, and the golfer’s distance all of which are helpful for those of us who typically just look at the pin, shrug, pull an iron out, and hope for the best. Basically, we are golfing at a time when there are more aids than ever, and companies like Blue Tees are not only helping us shlubs play so much better, but we get to listen to our best playlists while we do it.

Solis 5G Personal Hotspot

The Solis Lite Hotspot has long been a constant accessory in my carryon gear (and hurricane preparedness kit), and the first time that I realized just how important it is was when I was on Hole 4 at Quivira Los Cabos and I couldn’t get a signal on my phone to save my life. That’s bad news not only for whichever GPS device I’m using, but also for keeping my playlists bumping. But golf aside, having a portable hotspot will just make any getaway easier and safer.

Now, Solis has stepped it up with the 5G personal hotspot, so you can connect to the strongest available signal and enjoy faster speeds. Plus, the rugged design means it basically belongs in every adventurer’s backpack, because you simply need to listen Enya when looking at the most beautiful waterfalls in the world (or Kenny Loggins when you’re playing closest to the pin with the strangers you’ve been paired with at Teeth of the Dog).

Rheos Stono Sunglasses

For my hottest golf apparel take, I’ll confess that traditional golf sunglasses are a little fugly for my taste. The sleek style and narrow lenses remind me of professional cyclists and 1990s professional wrestlers, and I’m sure they offer certain advantages for the more intense players who can measure their own distances using the sun and shadows. But for us casual golfers, it’s all about finding the right look with a style that isn’t clunky or annoying.

When I first added the Rheos Lanier sunglasses to my bag for water adventures, I was thrilled by the extremely lightweight over the fact that they’re built to float so I won’t lose them in the ocean. Then it occurred to me that this might be the ideal style for a golf course in the Caribbean heat as well, and by the fifth hole at the Ocean Club in the Bahamas I realized I was correct. And while the Lanier is still in my travel rotation, I like the new Rheos Stono style even more, as the color choices make it phenomenal for those one-backpack, one-item-for-any-occasion quick getaways.

Linksoul Low Tide Short

Are you really a golfer if you don’t have a drawer filled with Linksoul shorts? That’s a trick question, because you don’t need to play to enjoy the immense comfort provided by this California company’s gear. Like the True shoes (of which there has been a Linksoul collab that we’d love to see again), the Low Tide Shorts should be the preferred choice for minimalist travelers who want something that works for a variety of occasions.

With versatile colors, these shorts can go to the gym, beach, pool, trails, driving range, and probably even the airplane, so long as it’s not on the return trip following those activities.

Birdie & Ace Racerback Polos

Hot on the heels of the buzzworthy “skort” from this creative newer company comes the Racerback Polo, which is made with the same soft and durable performance material. Available in a variety of colors and patterns, the Racerback (and similar, equally fun V-Top) are ideal choices for women who not only play both golf and tennis—at home or on vacation—but also want to include a sense of style that has been lacking from golf apparel for a long time.

RIPIT Grips

Circling back to my Takomo irons, the only thing that other golfers and my instructors find more interesting than the clubs are the RIPIT Grips. In fact, when I was recently playing Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic and I asked my caddie, Guillermo, for my 4-iron, he laughed with delight when he saw the peach-colored “Marilyn” grip. It instantly became a topic of discussion for the next two holes, and everyone in my foursome took turns examining my clubs.

Now, the Marilyn might be a little risqué for some golfers, but RIPIT Grips offers a variety of fun, creative styles, from the simple Geo and Suiggle patterns to the goofier Daily Diet and Bloody Ripper. Grab one of each and your clubs will instantly become the talk of the course. Unless, of course, your pal Boner puts his cart in the lake again.

The post Forget National Golf Month, Here’s All the Gear You’ll Need for a Fresh Fall on the Links appeared first on Islands.

The first time we arrived at The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee, my wife and I instantly declared it our favorite Ritz property in the continental U.S. Clichés be damned, there’s just something different about the look and aura of this property, almost as if it transports guests to another era without sacrificing the creative, spoiling luxuries that travelers have come to covet from this brand. It’s hard to sum it all up with one quick, clever phrase, but here’s what really matters: our son absolutely loves it.

So much so that he’s never stopped talking about that first visit. This is surprising because the average child’s attention span changes to the next thing before I finish this sentence. Just when I think I’ve learned enough about Minecraft to engage with his favorite game, he informs me that it’s all about Pokemon now, and I’m sure that by next week all my Charizard research will be worthless because he’ll be into Yu-Gi-Oh.

It turns out, though, that no imaginary cartoon character can hold a candle to a simple little bass. Two years after that first visit, my son still occasionally shows me his favorite vacation souvenir: a photograph (yes, we still print them) of him triumphantly standing with a fish barely bigger than his own foot. And every time he hands that picture to me, I know what he’s trying to say: “Let’s go back.”

Fortunately, this time, we all agreed. As alluring as our favorite Caribbean resorts may be, sometimes you just need a massive lake, some fishing rods, and an infinity pool. And some fabulous new amenities don’t hurt.

Pump Your Brakes, Parents

What I love the most about The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee, is that you don’t have to get up at the crack of dawn to force the kids to get dressed for the pool and lake, cram breakfast into your mouths without enjoying a single bite, and then race the other families to claim any chairs, let alone the best ones in the house. Pace of play isn’t just for the amazing golf courses here, as everyone is so laid back that there’s no reason to rush.

When my son wanted to bounce on the giant inflatables in the lake, there were always open chairs waiting for us on the sand. If my wife and her sister wanted to escape to the adults-only pool for some of the best cocktails in the Peach State, they didn’t have to search for hours to find new chairs. But the biggest relief was the seating availability at the family pool, which was added shortly after our last visit.

We assumed this would be the busiest spot on the resort property, with families hoarding as many loungers as they could by placing every towel, hat, toy, and Croc across them. We were gloriously wrong. Seating is ample at all times of day, and while kids are splashing in their own pool, parents can enjoy a variety of fun snacks and drinks at the Splash Shack, another terrific addition.

Those Summer Camp Vibes

Watching the kids run wild here reminded me of the vintage ‘80s summer camp vibes from my childhood, aside from today’s children enjoying far more superior and thrilling lake toys. Keeping a cautious dad’s eye on them as they bounced on the pair of massive inflatable trampolines and slide headfirst into the water from the floating platform, I was honestly a little jealous of how good they had it made. And that’s before we gathered at the campfire for s’mores and watched all the younger guests reunite to plan the next day’s adventures.

Now, I realize the phrase “run wild” might give the wrong impression. This isn’t an Orlando theme park hotel, nor is it the bargain Cancun all-inclusive or the deck of a crowded cruise ship. Here, the kids can play for hours and cause nary a distraction, while adults—both parents and childless romantics alike—can have their fun as well. I don’t know how this Ritz pulls that off so well, but it’s truly splendid.

But if we’re focusing solely on the children, there’s no better item to add to the agenda than an afternoon at Ritz Kids. This is a blanket statement for Ritz-Carlton properties worldwide; however, there’s so much adventure and nature to appreciate at Reynolds Lake Oconee that its’ thrilling for both the children and parents to know that the informative, entertaining staff members are providing an educational element in addition to letting the smaller guests win at air hockey.

It’ll be a long time before I forget how much fun my son had on his Ritz Kids retreat, because he’s still talking about it a month later. Especially the fishing. It turns out that when dad struggles to pull the hook from a fish’s mouth but the “camp counselor” (his words) can do it with the flick of a wrist, it means you’ve been surpassed in the pecking order. The criticism is worth it, though, when it means he has a lifelong memory and maybe even a new hobby to build on for many trips to come.

Something New for the Picky Eaters

One thing that always gets travelers worked up when it comes to their favorite resorts is a new restaurant. So, when we arrived at The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee, there was already a ton of buzz for the most recent addition to the property’s dining options: Amore Del Lago. A good Italian joint is always an ideal choice on vacation, especially when the culinary team goes above and beyond in making phenomenal butter noodles and sauceless pizza for a 7-year-old whose palate hasn’t quite yet evolved.

Guests were raving about Amore Del Lago throughout our visit, so much so that we had to be flexible with our dinner times because securing a reservation—at least on short notice—was difficult. Fortunately, there are still other terrific dining options here, including Gaby’s by the Lake, which is already about as perfect as can be, and the Linger Longer Steakhouse as an ideal choice for large family meals or simply celebrating a great round on Great Waters with a mouth-watering filet.

Not long after my visit, a friend took his family to Reynolds Lake Oconee and seemed somewhat unimpressed by what he thought was a lack of variety in the dining options. The key, I’ll tell him and anyone else with ears, is to spread it out and visit places like The National Tavern, which has a pecan old fashioned that pairs well with the best pork chops I’ve ever devoured, and the Great Waters Waterview Pub, where the fish tacos are practically a religion.

And Don’t Forget the Golf

It wasn’t until we’d reached the Florida-Georgia border on our drive home that my son caught site of “Excalibur,” my magical new TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver that was custom assembled for me at The Kingdom. To this point, he’d shown hardly any interest in golf, as his set of junior clubs, delivered by Santa in 2020, still has bubble wrap on the irons. But kids do and say the darndest things, and he suddenly declared: “I think I’d like to learn golf.”

You and me both, kid.

When I visited Reynolds Lake Oconee the first time, I was very intimidated by The Kingdom, as I was under the foolish belief that if I took a lesson here, the experts would rip my game to shreds and make me feel worse than I did shooting 106 on The Oconee. But every golfer I know who has visited and taken lessons has told me that this is as much the place for a scratch golfer to manage imperfections as it is for an average shlub to begin anew.

This was confirmed when I spent time with Sean Cain, whose simple methods instantly reshaped my short game and helped me shave at least 10 strokes off my round the next day. I was so impressed with the patience of these instructors that I’d send my son to them in a heartbeat if he really wants to learn this maddening yet wonderful sport.

And just as the Ritz Kids program blended adventure with education, Little Rippers (ages 4-7) and Rippers (8-10) will enjoy an experience that merges golf with fitness to help them get accustomed to the physical movements us older golfers have been desperately trying to master for years, if not decades. Perhaps best of all is that parents can save money on sending multiple junior golfers to The Kingdom.

They’ll receive the lesson of a lifetime and parents will enjoy a little extra quiet time at the adults-only pool. It’s a win-win at a place that knows how to make guests of all ages feel victorious.

The post Even on the Busiest Days, Time Stands Still at the Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee appeared first on Islands.

As much as we love having the opportunity to play some of the most beautiful golf courses in the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, and beyond, the experience can be very intimidating for the average golfer. For example, when I played El Camaleon in Mexico last year, the staff had just begun preparation for the PGA’s upcoming tournament, so the mere aura of the bigger spectacle haunted me as I tried to avoid some of the course’s subtle obstacles.

What I wouldn’t have given for a few pointers from an expert on that hot but beautiful September day.

In fact, it was an especially poor performance at this Mayakoba landmark that inspired me to add golf lessons to my resort itineraries whenever it is available. And it turns out that some of my favorite properties also offer some of the best pro tips I’ve ever learned.

Reynolds Lake Oconee

Anyone who is familiar with The Kingdom knows this is beyond obvious, but until you have actually experienced the expertise from the exceptional staff here you have no idea how helpful it can be. There’s never a wrong time to visit The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, but anyone who wants to get some pointers and play the incredible courses should be booking immediately, because the Blake Adams Kingdom Experience started as the best possible Father’s Day gift but will now run indefinitely.

This three-day masterclass in fixing your game begins with a club fitting at The Kingdom, and having just completed my first session here, I can say with certainty that this was the single most important thing I have done to get better at golf. (And the second was spending an hour working on my short game with instructor Sean Cain, which shaved at least 12 strokes off my recent round on The Oconee.)

Day 1 concludes with a round of shooting clays with Adams at the Reynolds Lake Oconee Sporting Grounds, and then Day 2 begins with fishing followed by a round of golf with the PGA pro. Finally, Day 3 will feature a morning round to hopefully put it all together before the family heads back home (or stays a few more days—no one will blame you).

PGA National Resort

My biggest fear when heading into my morning lesson with PGA National instructor Brad Robinson was that he would contradict or even undo the things I’d already been working on with my teacher back home. Fortunately, the best instructors are already in tune with this, and the first thing Brad asked was for a detailed list of what had already been addressed. Quite the relief.

For the next hour, instead of messing up my novice brain with a lot of new information, he worked on supplemental methods and exercises, allowing me to combine what my regular coach was teaching me with little things that would inevitably reinforce the routines that will take me from “Most Average Golfer on Earth” to “Not Being the Worthless Fourth on the Scramble Team.”

While I felt terrible about breaking the pool noodle, that session helped build confidence with my irons, which I later learned would be the key to my survival on The Champion. Still featuring professional touches from this year’s Honda Classic, that course was as mean as it could be to a novice like me, but fortunately my Takomo 101s and Brad’s tutelage were able to get me out of a lot of trouble that steamy South Florida afternoon.

Casa de Campo Resort and Villas

If you’re already planning to play the iconic Teeth of the Dog or marvelous Dye Fore courses at Casa de Campo Resort and Villas, you probably have a good idea of what you’re doing out there. Still, even the best of us needs to shed a little rust, and our scores will always benefit from time on the Trackman system. And if you are just a casual golfer enjoying a round or two in paradise, well, even a 50-minute private lesson at the Golf Learning Center is a great way to prepare for these immensely challenging designs.

What’s especially wonderful about this facility is that not only do the experts offer a variety of lessons, but they’re also comparatively affordable to instructions at your local courses. However, I have never met nor played with someone as intelligent and relatable as the pro, Parker La Pointe, who not only offered friendly, easy-to-understand advice throughout our round, but he also played more like a friend than a coach. That goes a long way in increasing the comfort level, because I have played and taken lessons from no-nonsense instructors who are more intimidating than they are helpful.

While I highly recommend the Ultimate School, which features a morning at the learning center and range before lunch and an afternoon round, no golfer can make a bad choice, even if simply opting for 50 minutes in one of the hitting bays. The pointers you’ll pick up here are way better than any souvenir in the pro shop (even though the Johnnie-O selection is astounding).

Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Perhaps we should have started with the most important question: Just how much golf do you want on your tropical vacation? If you’re planning a huge getaway that involves passports and digital entry forms, the last thing you might want is extra baggage to lug from the carousel to the resort and everywhere in between. But if you want a little bit of everything, leave the passport at home and head to Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Puerto Rico, where guests are spoiled with one of the best settings on the island, as well as arguably the best experiences anywhere in the Caribbean.

While the kids are having a blast on The Watermill’s awesome slides, the golfer(s) can head to the Tournament Players Club, where the East Course boasts phenomenal ocean views and the Sugarcane Course’s larger fairways will make novices feel like they’re at the top of their games. But don’t mistake forgiving designs for a pass on lessons, because the team here can deliver one of the best souvenirs from paradise: confidence.

Have multiple golfers in the crew? The semi-private lessons are great for duos that want to knock the rust off before playing 36 holes. Otherwise, a one-hour lesson is a terrific choice for the casual golfer who wants to focus on a specific element of the game, while those of us who need to get better at the whole shebang can work with the experts to develop 5- or 10-hour personalized plans. Finally, travelers who want the whole trip to be all about the game can enroll in the two-day golf school, with sessions running from 9 am through noon and including video analysis and attention to every little aspect of our games.

Silvies Valley Ranch

Some golfers can work in a training facility, watch real-time analysis on a Trackman setup, and immediately recognize changes that need to be made. Others take that advice to the course and instantly forget it and then spend 18 holes mumbling profanity and wondering why it never works. For the latter, on-course learning is a great way for us average golfers to see the changes in action, so why not choose a uniquely stunning setting that feels like it’s thousands of miles away from the rest of the world?

Silvies Valley Ranch offers way more than golf, as it the ultimate outdoor playground for adventure-loving travelers. However, the golf at this celebrated Oregon property is always front and center in the spotlight—mainly because it’s the only place where you can play with a goat as your caddy. No, not Bones Mackay. An actual goat will carry your clubs on McVeigh’s Gauntlet, a delightful (and sometimes frustrating) 7-hole challenge course, and the selfies alone are worth the trip.

As for the lessons, golf pro Dave Lewis and his crew can host individual sessions on the range or group instruction on the courses, and plenty more in between. Again, seeing the advice in action is sometimes the only way some of us can build momentum in this mind-boggling game, so having the chance to do that on courses as beautiful and celebrated as the Craddock and Hankins will make a great vacation downright phenomenal.

Orlando World Center Marriott

When you live in or merely visit “The Golf Capital of the World,” your choices for instruction are seemingly limitless. But very few properties offer golfers the chance to get better and play a beautiful course in between visits to the best theme parks on the planet, and that’s why I always recommend Orlando World Center Marriott as arguably the friendliest Central Florida resort for families.

For starters, the brand-spanking-new waterpark is out of this world, head and shoulders above even the more luxurious resorts. As for the culinary offerings, this is a premium example of a place that has something for everyone, and even the original pool—with its own upgrades and renovations—is one of the coolest spots in all of Orlando for hanging out and enjoying a hot Florida summer day. And then there’s the golf.

Hawk’s Landing Golf Club is a fun, challenging experience for any level of player, but anyone who needs to brush up on fundamentals before teeing off can benefit from a lesson or two at the Orlando Golf Academy. Award-winning instructor Brian O’Neill and his staff excel at helping everyone from beginners to aspiring pros find their comfort zones on the course, which is a big relief to those of us with brains cluttered by years of bad lessons and terrible advice.

The post 6 Amazing Resorts Where Average Golfers Can Learn a Few New Tricks appeared first on Islands.

When the 2023 Ryder Cup begins on September 29, golf fans across the world will undoubtedly take one look at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club and decide that Rome needs to be on the travel wish list. Obviously, thanks to The White Lotus and the general awesomeness of the Amalfi Coast, Italy has already been one of the hottest tourism destinations in the world over the last year, but at the very least it is about to become a haven for golfers who crave the most beautiful courses as well.

You don’t need to be a scienziato missilistico, though, to know that golf will only fill a few hours on what should be the itinerary of your dreams. That’s why Marco Simone will need to share the spotlight with a majestic property set in the heart of the Eternal City—especially one that already excels at creating an authentic, educational experience that will make guests feel like they’re in their home away from home.

That property is Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

As the Old Saying Goes

If St. Ambrose had a nickel for every time someone used some form of the phrase, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do,” his descendants would never work a day in their lives. But first-time visitors probably don’t know what it is that Romans actually do, so that’s why this spectacular hotel goes the distance in offering “La Dolce Vita.”

Not only can guests experience Rome from the seats of a classic Italian automobile, but unlike the Clark Griswolds of the world, they’ll have only the best local guides explaining the importance of each sight and landmark while also serving as chauffeur. (If you haven’t seen Nick Kroll’s latest Netflix special, he has a great bit about not being able to drive stick in Italy, and it’ll only reassure your desire to sit back and let an expert do the work.)

Don’t spread out too much, though, because guests will also be joined by a private photographer, who will be capturing epic photos in front of those landmarks so they can come home in a special photo album. That’s way better than keeping it all on a memory card in your Insta360.

Make It an Imperial Affair

There’s no wrong choice when it comes to booking accommodations here, but guests who want the VIP feeling and the ability to bypass the hustle and bustle of the main lobby should join the Imperial Club. With a private floor and myriad spoils, this exclusive option is highlighted by the Imperial Rome View rooms that offer balconies with arguably the best views in the city. In fact, some might feel like the only things missing are a toga and gold laurel.

But Let’s Not Forget the Golf

What’s great about a course hosting an event as big and important as the Ryder Cup is that Marco Simone has never looked better. The fairways and greens are practically glowing ahead of September’s big showdown, and this will also be the home of the next Italian Open as well. Naturally, it’s going to be tough to get a tee time here during certain stretches.

The good news is the hotel is offering a special golf experience ahead of the huge event, so anyone bringing their clubs to Rome’s most spectacular property will have the chance to see just how well they’d hang with the world’s best. At the very least, they’ll have some spectacular selfies in front of Marco Simone castle and St. Peter’s Dome to share while the pros are handling their business.

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To the average golfer, the phrase “World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses” might not mean much, but for a lot of us it is the annual reminder that Golf Digest has done all the work in creating the ultimate bucket list. When you scroll this marvelous celebration of international designs and see the photos from No. 1 Newcastle, Northern Ireland, to No. 100 Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland, it’s impossible not to want to book a trip so you can cross one off.

However, for many of us, one might be it. With courses in Japan, Dubai, New Zealand, and many other exciting destinations, we must accept the fact that our budgets and schedules will make choosing a truly difficult task. But what if a course is located near a resort community that is an ideal destination for any type of vacation? That could certainly make it easier, if it means convincing the family, that special someone, or your best friends that you know just the place for the big getaway.

For me, that place was Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf and Spa Resort, a terrific property that is as luxurious as it is entertaining. It is also home to the No. 87 entry on Golf Digest’s 2022-23 list: Quivira Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus design that opened in 2014 and instantly became a dream course for players of all skill levels. Even having heard of its reputation, I wasn’t prepared for this masterpiece.

And things are only getting better here, as Nicklaus is working on a second course and he’s promising that it will be “stunning and equally as spectacular” as Quivira G.C. Is that even possible? I can’t imagine so, but I do know that no matter how wild his first design may be, it shouldn’t scare away the average golfer.

Prepare to Make a Day of It

Quivira Golf Club is as much an epic journey as it is a round of golf. This is a sprawling course with large gaps between holes, like the long ride between holes 4 and 5, 6 and 7, and especially 15 and 16, as those last two are set on the west side of the property like they’ve been shunned from the rest. I like to think Nicklaus left so much room over here so frustrated golfers can shout their profanities all at once without disturbing the local wildlife.

In all seriousness, though, the expansive layout is my favorite thing about QGC because it allows for magnificent views at every turn, and some of the holes even feel like they’re not even on the same course. I’ve heard other golfers say they want the most bang for their buck when they’re playing golf on vacations, and this one is worth every penny and then some. So, sit back and enjoy the ride… even if you’ve lost a dozen balls by the turn.

Don’t Sweat the Tough Stuff

No matter how good the player, this is not an easy course. In fact, I’d love to see a PGA event held here so we can all watch and marvel at how the pros would play it. But don’t let the challenge scare you away. The key for golfers of any skill level is to treat a round here like a vacation in general: leave the stress at home (or in the clubhouse) and just appreciate the opportunity to play one of the best courses in the world.

When you’re below average or a beginner, a difficult design can be a deterrent for continuing, so it is crucial not to let the lost balls bother you. And there will be a lot, especially when you’ll want to hit at least three shots on the Par 3 13^th hole, with its breathtaking gap between the tee box and green. So, once you’ve stepping into that first tee box, take a deep breath, do a 360-degree twirl to take in the first sights, and repeat after me…

“It’s Time to Be Creative”

Once I put the frustration in my rearview, I realized the best course of action is to spend a little more time examining the layout of each hole and finding ways to take advantage of the designs. You know, what good golfers do. Granted, there are plenty of obstacles you won’t be able to avoid and the curves run wild on many of these holes, but common sense might actually trump talent at Quivira.

For example, one of my favorite holes on the planet is the Par 4 5^th, which the better golfers in my group Bryson’d to try and make the green in one. With a slower swing speed and a tendency to hit low runners for safer shots, I focused on sticking to the right side, keeping it on the fairway, and running it down the remarkable slope. A medium chip and two putts later, I had my only par of the round.

I more than earned my phenomenal paloma at the first course snack shack.

Shorten Your Game

While most of the rest of my game was lowlighted by double bogeys and replies of “I forget” when pressed for my actual score, I was at least able to keep the ball on the fairways by playing shorter. Three-quarter and half-swings might’ve put my ball well behind those of my cohorts, but nobody wants to hit out of the rough or sand here. Hell, the sand is at least manageable—I should know as I spent enough time there to use Shooter McGavin’s Hasselhoff joke multiple times.

The rough, though, is especially bad, and the stuff beyond that is no man’s land. Even very good golfers will be spotted kicking out of the thickness, so don’t be too hard on your buddies when you catch them picking a friendlier spot to hit from. Save the heavy roasting for when you catch them doing that tossed ball trick from a bunker.

Prepare to Storm the Shores

At most courses I play during my travels, I’m usually teamed with strangers, which is awesome because I love having someone else’s perspective, not only for golf tips, but also seeing the courses through their eyes. But with my professional mindset, I’m too often caught up in the moment of enjoying the scenery, so I feel like a broken record when I say things like, “Can you believe this is real?” and “How amazing is this view?”

On this course, however, that’s all anyone in my group of eight said. The elevation allows for the best photo opportunities, so be prepared to take selfies and group pics on every tee and green. One element that people might miss without a proper heads up from the staff is that the sprawling beach that’s best seen from the green on the 10^th hole is the spot where the battle for the Trojan beach was filmed for the movie Troy.

So, at the very least, you can tell people you’re the Achilles of scoring 110.

The post 5 Things You Need to Know Before Playing Quivira Golf Club in Los Cabos appeared first on Islands.

Mention Casa de Campo Resort and Villas around any serious golfers and you’re almost guaranteed an ear-to-ear grin. If they haven’t played one of the iconic courses here, they most certainly want to, and if they have? Prepare to hear a very detailed recap of every hole on Teeth of the Dog, because this design is a modern miracle that people of all skill levels won’t soon forget. After all, Pete Dye’s magnificent effort is No. 20 on Golf Digest’s “World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses,” so simply being here is an incredible bragging right.

But if you’re not a golfer, here’s the most important thing to know about Casa de Campo: This place is still phenomenal, even if you’ve never picked up a club in your life. Staying here might actually tempt a novice to at least try playing golf for the first time—especially with an affable, patient pro like Parker LaPointe standing by to offer tips—but even if a guest has absolute-zero interest in simply trying, this property will still thrill and entertain all types of guests.

In fact, it’s the kind of place that makes you think that it couldn’t possibly be any better, and yet there’s always something new or creative around the corner. If it’s not a concert set in the amphitheater at the impossibly cool Altos de Chavon, then it’s a resort upgrade that will keep Casa de Campo at the front of the pack—a seemingly impossible task given that the rest of the Dominican Republic’s resorts are constantly bettering themselves just to keep up with this one.

It all begins with the newest cherry on top concept that will spoil guests and keep them right in the heart of the action. 

Welcome to the Club

Upon arriving at Casa de Campo, the size is shocking. It’s like an island within the island, and anyone might be mystified by the task of getting from reception to the beach club and then back to the room before heading to dinner at the Chilango Taquiria in Altos de Chavon. The easy answer is, of course, one of the property’s shuttles, but the better answer is one of the golf carts included in the new Premier Club experience.

So many properties now offer a “resort within a resort” concept, but Casa de Campo has always been a trendsetter and the Premier Club raises the bar with ease. Especially at a time when the Dominican Republic is hotter than ever—both in terms of popularity and temperature—laidback jet-setters will cherish an opportunity to avoid the crowds by escaping to a private bar and lounge for those little moments in between the bigger moments. The Premier Club has that, as well as a staff that treats every guest like the only person in town.

The centerpiece of this experience is the exceptional comfort of the accommodations, as the 58 suites—27 Premier Junior suites with double beds, 26 Premier Junior suites with kings, four Premier one-bedroom suites, and the oh-so-glorious Premier Presidential Suite—provide subtle elegance and the creature comforts we need for the downtime spent in rooms, away from the myriad reasons we choose such a destination.

But no one should miss the golf courses, dining options, tennis courts, or Minitas Beach Club too much, because the golf carts are ready to whisk everyone back to the fun.

Beyond the World Class Courses

When it comes to this massive property, it might seem like everything is about the golf, but that’s hardly the case. In fact, while most guests are trying to conquer Teeth of the Dog or the equally phenomenal courses that comprise Dye Fore, that’s the time for non-golfers to strike, because there are so many other activities to enjoy, from other fitness-focused opportunities to a movie theater showing the latest blockbusters.

Aspiring marksmen can head to the shooting center, where 200 stations are available for trap, skeet, and sporting clays, as well as pigeon rings and the more challenging Rancho Peligro. What’s really cool about this setting is how it complements the golf experience by offering a secondary group opportunity that also provides a competitive edge for friends and family. And just like with the Golf Learning Center, guests can learn to get better here as well.

That’s sort of the overall theme here—teaching people to be better while they get the best of the Dominican Republic. Beyond golf and shooting, there’s also horseback riding, fishing, and even the Fundación Real Madrid Soccer School. Heck, guests can take Spanish lessons poolside, because why not? Why not push ourselves to be better people in one of the most beautiful settings in the Caribbean?

It’s almost exhausting just thinking about it all over again but thank goodness there’s something special to help us all relax.

Take a Break—You’ve Earned It

If Casa de Campo had left its spa as it was, it would still be an amazing health and wellness concept for anyone from travel-weary beach bums to golfers looking to work out the kinks and soreness before heading out for another round. With yoga classes and the meditation garden, it was already one of the finest facilities on the island, but nothing is ever good enough here. Enter: The all-new Spa and Wellness Center at Casa de Campo.

From the moment guests step through the front doors, they’ll know what’s in store at this stunning, modern oasis. More than 18,000 sq. ft. of space is dedicated to rest and relaxation, therapeutic treatments, and even wedding party preparation. Truth be told, the VIP and Bridal Suite alone might make this place No. 1 on every destination wedding wish list for the coming years.

Thirteen treatment rooms will be available for making guests feel like they’re on cloud nine, with hands-on and even hands-free experiences set to make it feel like time has stopped. JetPeel Facials, Triple Detox Therapy on the MLX i3 Dome, Binaural Acoustic and Dynamic Stimulation on the Welnamis Table—sure, these all sound like phrases out of science fiction movies, but the gospel is real. The bliss is oh so real.

And there’s even a green juice or Dominican coffee waiting at the Spa Café at the end. Not that you’ll want it to end.

And Yet There’s Still More to Come

What else can be created or improved here? Golf, obviously. After all, as Golf Digest pointed out in its massive ranking, Casa de Campo is the reason the Dominican Republic has become an unparalleled golf destination. Other resorts have seen what this brilliant monument to Caribbean excellence has created and they try to emulate the best aspects.

Sometimes it works, but that just means it’s time for this property to step it up again. And that will start with reseeding Teeth of the Dog, a dauntless task no doubt, but one that will only enhance the playing element that is made a billion times better by the unrivaled views. Eventually, Dye Fore will receive some enhancements as well. But that’s for another time.

Today, it’s all about living in the moment at Casa de Campo Resort and Villas. And right now things are looking especially luxurious.

The post You Don’t Have to Be a Golfer to Fall Madly in Love with Casa de Campo appeared first on Islands.

When it comes to Omni resorts with a knack for delivering the ultimate golf getaways, all eyes have been on Omni PGA Frisco Resort as the sport’s new modern home. But a little further west is a sister property that deserves a spotlight of its own, as Omni Tucson National Resort recently unveiled the results of an incredible multimillion-dollar renovation that will reaffirm its status as one of Arizona’s most incredible vacation settings.

“This long-anticipated renovation marks a whole new era for Omni Tucson National Resort,” general manager Michael Maruca explained. “The entire property has been transformed, inside and out. Guests will be blown away by our Casitas and Hacienda Suites and we cannot wait to welcome visitors and locals alike to experience our new Mokara Spa and differentiated dining outlets.”

He’s not lying. Guests seeking next-tier privacy and comfort are especially going to bookmark the hacienda suites, because they’re more stylish than ever and their golf course adjacency will have everyone waking up ready to tee off. That’s not to say the reimagined casitas and premier and deluxe guest rooms won’t cause a few jaws to drop—there’s simply no wrong choice here. Every accommodation now features an unmistakably Southwestern design that serves to blend the interior with the magnificent natural surroundings.

Also headlining this new era at Omni Tucson is the addition of the 9,000-sq. ft. Mokara Spa, which draws from the regional beauty and immense serenity offered by the desert landscape. A dozen treatment rooms will be used for a variety of therapies and indulgences for all types of guests, but golfers playing a round or two each day will certainly love having such an extensive wellness retreat at their disposal.

Executive Chef Jonathan Stutzman is especially proud of the resort’s new dining concepts, as it was his goal to “put food at the forefront so that more memories around the table will be made.” While the existing options, including local favorite Bob’s Steak and Chop House, have been refreshed and will continue to dish out exceptional, creative meals, they are joined by four more venues that will undoubtedly make this as much a food haven as golf heaven.

Golfers can grab a necessary cup of coffee and snack from Terra Cotta Café on the way to the range or a full morning meal with Southwestern-inspired breakfast choices like the mouth-watering deep-dish quiche with turkey chorizo. After the round, they can head to Legends Bar and Grill for the ideal 19^th-hole celebration, and later everyone can toast their games and each other with delicious cocktails at The Peak, which boasts exceptional mountain views.

The post The Southwestern Vibes are Strong at the New-Look Omni Tucson National Resort appeared first on Islands.

Growing up in South Florida but never playing golf in my youth, I always had this vision of PGA National Resort as the place to be for serious players. The name alone gave my young brain the implication that this was a monument to the sport and any course here would be the toughest in the world. In reality, it was most definitely a golfer’s elite retreat, but it wasn’t a place that my family would consider for our local staycation needs. However, I have a feeling that would be very different today.

Last year, this iconic Palm Beach Gardens resort unveiled the results of a nearly two-year, $100 million renovation that began in late 2020 with the closing of the Squire Course. And the big reveal was done in the most appropriate way, as a throng of excited, loyal fans rolled in for the 2022 Honda Classic to watch Sepp Straka take top honors with a reinvigorated property as the backdrop.

But when I recently visited, expecting to stroll into the expansive lobby for a “Welcome to Golf Valhalla” moment, it quickly occurred to me that this is actually a phenomenal choice for a classic Florida getaway. Sure, the changes to the golf courses and Members Clubhouse have reinforced this resort’s status as the place to be, but a new generation is set to learn the fun way that there is far more to PGA National Resort than just the fantastic courses.

It’s Play Time

There’s something about the sight of a group of children taking lessons at a resort that brings a big smile to my face. For love of the game, it’s great to know that a new wave of players will soon be teeing off—even if it means accepting that people 30 years younger than me would beat me by a minimum of 10 strokes. But with a 7-year-old son of my own, I know there’s only so much of one activity a kid can take before boredom sets in, and I’m glad PGA National Resort’s management realized that, too.

For starters, the Banyan Buddies program will not only keep kids of all ages busy with creative itineraries, but it will also allow them to make friends at the same time. Whether for a full day, morning or afternoon session, or the Kids’ Night Out—for when parents want extra time to enjoy the magnificent dining options—the entire family can be confident that no one will suffer from the woes of monotony.

A child’s day will begin with the Power Hour fitness session that, let’s be honest, any adult should want to join as well. As good as the coffee is at The MKT, the lobby’s quick stop snack bar, a little exercise would be great for any golfer about to step out into the South Florida heat for the next four hours or so. That experience is followed by snacks and a Splash Fest before everyone heads inside for more activities and excellent food. Kids will also enjoy an educational art session and an hour or so of the property’s other sports offerings. 

Obviously, there will be ice cream, too.

Way More than Just Golf

One of the most constant themes I’ve seen at Caribbean and Mexican resorts over the last year is the prevalence of pickleball, and that wave of fun has also arrived at PGA National Resort. The kids won’t be the only guests enjoying some other sports in their free time, as six courts await anyone looking to catch the fever. Nineteen Har Tru tennis courts are also available for purists, with a dozen of them boasting lights for night play. Although, by the time I was done on The Champion, the only other sport I cared about was how fast I could get to The Butcher’s Club.

With so much fitness and action available to guests, everyone will need a place to unwind as well. Yes, the pool is always an ideal choice, and maybe some people will prefer to cool off with some fro-yo at The Big Drip. But you’ll find the rest of us at The Spa, a 40,000-sq. ft. holistic escape that has been reimagined with the help of Venus Williams’ award-winning design firm, VSTARR.

Between The Spa and Groom Guy—a barber shop concept imported from New York to ideally complement the other salon services—it’s fantastic how PGA National Resort has created the perfect balance for all types of travelers. Just as a family could be enjoying the kids’ Spring Break fun, a gaggle of golf bros could be having the perfect bachelor party. This resort is truly a one-stop shop for almost any style of vacation.

Let’s Talk about the Golf, Though

Any Florida Man knows that afternoon golf is always a crapshoot as the warmer months approach. Some grey clouds in the distance had me nervous that my afternoon round on The Match would end with wet clubs, so I teed off with a sense of urgency… that undoubtedly led to my first hole double bogey. It’s hard to be mad at a course this fun, though, so I cleared my head for Hole 2, a par-3 with a wicked crater in the middle of the green, and I high-fived the air around me as my putt dropped for my first par of the day.

I was beginning to feel some positive vibes coming from the curves on The Match, as my Hole 3 tee shot ran a little longer thanks to a friendly fairway design. Next thing I know, I’m just off the green for an eagle chip, something I’ve never faced in my short casual golf career, and words can’t even describe the smile that ran across my face as I sank a 5-footer for birdie. And then the lightning struck, the air horns went off, and images of Caddyshack raced through my mind as I headed back to the clubhouse. Still, it would take far more than some rain to wipe the smile off my face.

By the time I met up with Brian Robinson, one of the resort’s exceptional instructors, for a morning lesson ahead of my tangle with The Champion, I wondered if I’d be able to carry over the momentum from yesterday’s short round. Robinson is the ideal type of teacher for an average golfer like me, as he was informative and direct without being patronizing. He kept things simple and quickly identified the biggest problem with my swing, all without contradicting anything I’ve learned from my current instructor back home. If only he could have caddied for me in the coming round.

It’s just so cool to me to be able to play a course that was recently occupied by a PGA tournament. Identifying the various nuances of each hole in person is always a good time, and I even made a game of it with the strangers I was teamed with. That helped distract me from my less-than-ideal play, but that’s no indictment of The Champion. This is a fun course for all skill levels, and even when I hit a bad shot, I never felt like the recovery was impossible. 

If anything, I feel like these courses taught me even more about how to be a better player, something I kept in my brain vault when I took on Teeth of the Dog in the Dominican Republic the following week.

And the Cherry on Top

Upon arrival and check-in, I was struck by the vintage design vibes that carried from the lobby all the way to my room—it felt like Ben Hogan and Arnold Palmer were about to walk around the corner in their cardigans with cigarettes hanging from their lips. Between the new look of the 339 guest rooms and the 21 Serena & Lily-designed luxury villas, I didn’t think anything would top the immense first impression, but then my stomach rumbled.

Six new dining concepts will have food-focused guests smiling as wide as I did when I sank that birdie. Two of them, Honeybelle and The Butcher’s Club, were conceived by Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford and Lindsay Autry, who has been nominated for James Beard Awards on multiple occasions. While Honeybelle was a great dining experience, I remain head-over-heels in love with The Butcher’s Club, where I enjoyed hands-down one of the finest dinner experiences of my life.

For starters, the staff is phenomenal. From the host stand to the table service, I was so impressed by how attentive every person was to even the tiniest element of the meal. And while the wagyu skirt steak made my heart pitter-patter, I couldn’t stop myself from openly raving about the creativity on display for the “pick your spirit” cocktail option. I’ve had great drinks at amazing resort bars, but never have I enjoyed the experience as much as this, with the server asking a series of questions as if it was a Choose Your Own Adventure book. I don’t even know what was in my mezcal cocktail, but it was delightful, and it will be a long time before I forget it.

That’s PGA National Resort in a nutshell. New golf resorts will open all over the world and players will race to be among the first to tee off on their wild new courses. But the greats remain great because they adapt and continue doing what visitors love. Most importantly, though, they rely on the personal touches to make guests feel special, and that’s exactly why this property retains its legend status year after year.

The post With a New Look, PGA National Resort Makes Family a Huge Part of the Golf Vacation Experience appeared first on Islands.

Seven hours, three airports, two flights, and a quick shuttle ride after closing my garage in the pre-sunrise doldrums of a grey, tree-bare, and still-cold Midwest morning, I was closely tracking a smiling bellman down the hallway at The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club while sipping on a lemon, mint, and honey island-concoction en route to an ocean-view guestroom.

Following an early wakeup call and full day of air travel, the tropical elixir hit all the right notes in all the right ways, equal parts flavorful as it was wildly refreshing. So delicious was said beverage that, prior to leaving the check-in counter for mi casa for the next six nights, other sampling lobbygoers repeatedly wondered aloud, “Why is this soooo good?” A fair question indeed, especially given its alcohol-free status.

By the time we reached my contemporary fourth-floor abode, I had unapologetically guzzled my drink in celebration of the fortysomething-degree temperature jump that my sun-seeking skin had accomplished since leaving the house in a puffy winter coat that morning, where my breath could be seen in the brusque March air. That’s when the bellman, after offloading my suitcase and golf clubs, unveiled the encore of my arrival as he peeled the curtains back and opened the balcony’s sliding door.

“Oh wow!” we exclaimed in unison as if reading from a script. The shade of my blue eyes instantly fell flat when set against the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic’s Photoshop-blue waters. Suddenly, I felt like Renée Zellweger in the famous Jerry Maguire scene when Tom Cruise unexpectedly returns at the end: “You had me at hello.” Given my Latin American coordinates and overwhelming desire for a multi-day Vitamin D bender, the view from my perch had me at “hola.” 

Without delay, I kicked off my shoes and stripped my socks, resting every muscle of my fatigued body in a slouched position on the terrace lounge chair. The bellman, whose name drifted away during my prolonged Caribbean trance, read the room perfectly and quietly slipped out the door, sensing my awe and gratitude for this long-awaited greeting two time zones away. For the next hour, I watched kiteboarders ride the offshore surf just beyond the resort’s Tahiti-esque overwater gazebo, reached by a boardwalk that juts out from an idyllic snow-white beach. Overhead, thatch palms deejayed nature’s soundtrack, swaying in the breeze as I floated between awake and asleep.

These are the moments, inert and simple, that have long kept (and will forever keep) the Caribbean high on my “Return To” list. I’ve swam and lounged beachside in the Bahamas, Dominica, Anguilla, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Mexico to name a few, all impressive and expressive with their varying hues of blue, but I’d soon come to discover—and little did I know—that Punta Cana’s resplendent turquoise tinge would wind up topping them all.

It wouldn’t be all R&R on my first voyage to the Dominican Republic, however, as I had timed my visit with the Corales Puntacana Championship, an opposite-field PGA Tour event hosted by Corales Golf Club since 2018. For four days, I laid greenside and watched some of the best golfers on the planet duke it out in paradise for some hard-earned silverware and much-needed FedEx Cup points. When it was all said and done on late Sunday afternoon, Englishman Matt Wallace earned his first PGA Tour trophy with a one-shot victory over rising Danish star Nicolai Højgaard.

The Dominican has long been awash with first-class tracks—Casa de Campo’s “Teeth of the Dog” and Punta Espada are perennial ‘Top 100 Courses You Can Play’ in the world. Pound for pound, the island is easily the foremost golf destination in the entire Caribbean. And while Casa and Punta swallow most of the critic’s attention for their challenge and views, Corales Golf Club lured the PGA Tour, and, as I soon learned, was the preferred daily play for travelers and numerous Dominican golfers I spoke to. Come Monday, the morning after the pros jetted home, I took a lap around the annual PGA Tour stop—peak conditions, Sunday pin positions, and all.
Corales, like many a renowned track, has a famed three-hole challenge of its own: El Codo Del Diablo, or “The Devil’s Elbow.” What the Snake Pit is to Innisbrook’s Copperhead Course, Amen Corner is to Augusta National, the Bear Trap is to PGA National, and the Green Mile is to Quail Hollow, the Devil’s Elbow is to Corales. It instantly became my choice nickname of the bunch, never mind saying it in Spanish, a debate-ending mic drop.

Players aren’t introduced to Satan’s Stretch until the closing three holes, each with oceanside real estate. Sixteen is a rather straightforward par-4 that plays directly into the prevailing winds. Seventeen, a 147-yard par-3 on the water, feels like a Scottish one-shotter went on holiday to the Caribbean. Don’t be fooled by its short length as the cross-breeze and crashing sea mist—sure to dampen your face at some point on the tee box—is the bewitching equalizer. To date, the hole cracks my ‘Top 10 Par-3’s in the World’ list.

And lastly, the eponymous 18^th hole, which I opted to play from the tips because “When on a PGA Tour course in the Dominican,” right? Beautiful as it is, the cove-carrying tee shot, named for Lucifer’s anatomy, tops the intimidation charts. The bolder the line taken, the shorter the approach shot. Safer the line, longer approach. In other words, it rewards the fearless golfer. My game might be more reckless than fearless, but I play how I play how I play. After narrowly covering the dogleg right’s cove, I narrowly covered the fairway bunker’s lip on my second shot from 205 yards out. Following the greenside flop shot of my life… from a swale… with a downhill lie… over a ridge… to a short-sided flagstick… to three feet, par from the professional tees (a 481-yard par-4!) was all but certain. Until I cooked my putt over the hole’s right edge, that is.

At Corales, what’s lost amidst the greatness of the Devil’s Elbow is Tom Fazio’s epic three-hole stretch to close out the front nine. In my humble opinion, there’s no equal on the course to the double cove-carrying eighth hole, one of the best drone photographs in the game of golf. There, I watched multiple pros take drops on the short-but-strategic par-4 after misgauging the breezy layup off the tee. My Haitian caddie gave me two good numbers and I capitalized with a couple of nice swings and a birdie, or “Pajarito!” as he yells in Spanish after watching my ball disappear.

Like Corales, The Westin is part of the lush 15,000-acre Puntacana Resort & Club. Golf is certainly one of its shiniest amenities, but there is plenty to do away from the course. 

Westin guests would be remiss to not visit Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve, a surreal 1,500-acre subtropical reserve a short shuttle ride away from the hotel. Twelve freshwater lagoons fed by an underground river highlight the oasis named by the Taino Indians. Before I jumped off the wooden platform into the 26-foot deep Guama Pool (this is the one you should swim in), a glittering-green Hispaniolan Mango hummingbird perched in the foliage feet above me as if to lifeguard my impending cannon ball.

Across the street at the Sustainability Center, guests can take a guided tour to learn about coral reef restoration, see an endemic rhinoceros iguana, discover the world of Puntacana Forest Honey at the on-site apiary, walk through the fruit and vegetable garden, and spot a nesting pair of Ridgway’s Hawks, critically endangered raptors endemic to the Dominican Republic.

When you’ve had your fill of adventure, a treatment at the Six Senses Spa, located at La Cana Golf & Beach Club—Puntacana Resort & Club’s other beachside golf course—is an indoor oasis. My massage therapist, Daniela, opened and closed my treatment with a Tibetan singing bowl. In between, her hands of gold worked out some overly ripe kinks in my neck, elbow, and back.

Each of The Westin’s 200 rooms will get a modern refresh to be completed no later than September of this year. Its restaurants, Brassa and Anani, will also be made over. Two new themed dining options will be unveiled in the coming months just as well, a steakhouse and a Pan-Asian concept helmed by Chef Bryan Emperor, who cut his teeth in kitchens like Nobu. Adding to the ambience is a fish-filled cenote that sits just outside the soon-to-be restaurant’s front door.

Before heading back to the mainland, where highs of 83 and lows of 74 only happen in the movies, I took a long dip in the clear blue ocean on my final morning. On my way to checking out, I nabbed one of the Dominican’s finest stogies for my grandpa at the hotel’s Don Queco Cigar Bar, just off its newly renovated lobby.

No matter the season (or reason), a voyage to the Caribbean is balm for the soul. From its beaches to its golf, adventure to its luxury, The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club has the perfect dose of it all.

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