Asian Golf Nation - June 2010

Dear Travel Partners & Golf Travelers,

Welcome to the latest issue of the Asian Golf Nation, the source for news breaking information about golf in Indochina.

As you might have noticed, I intentionally delayed this newsletter to be able to bring you GOOD NEWS.

Well - the GOOD NEWS is that after months of demonstrations and upheaval in downtown Bangkok making International headlines - peace has finally returned, the streets have been cleaned up, the demonstrators have returned home, and offices, shops and hotels have re-opened. The Skytrain and subway are back in operation. [Read more below...]

Not to downplay what happened at the main demonstration area in central Bangkok; particularly in light of international media coverage as always sensationalism sells. However, in reality 99.9999% of Thailand remained peaceful through all the recent events and golfers throughout Thailand were never at risk unless they were foolish enough to go to the main demonstration area. Anyway things are back to normal in Bangkok now, though of course there are still political differences and some emotional wounds among the Thais.

The only thing missing now are golf holidaymakers!

Now a favor, I ask for your kind support in spreading the word that Thailand is safe to visit, travel advisories are being normalized and Thailand is welcoming all foreign golfers.

With that said it is once again it's time to let you know what is going on in golf across the region and over the next couple of months.

July and August are my 2 favorite months for golf in Asia. Summer brings cooler temperatures and is a season of golf festivals. Dry daytimes provide great opportunities for golf as most rain comes late in the day or overnight. Lower prices, good weather, and fewer tourists make for some great low season deals, too which everyone likes. For example, you can now play the 3 best Pattaya golf courses for less than 50 USD a round each. Inquire here to find out more details!

Now for the golf news from around the region:

Thailand
Bangkok: Royal Gems is delayed! Bangkok's high end replica course being built near Alpine is officially delayed at least until November. I am not sure what caused the day, probably overzealous owners plans, but from what I can see the course is still destined to become one of the best in Thailand, if not all Asia. Nine holes are replicas of the back nine at Augusta National and the others are copies of Scotland's best holes. Stay tuned for more construction and initial play reports.

Vietnam
Danang: This new golf destination continues to sell well. Danang Golf Club launched their own web site, Montgomerie Links has established itself on the as a tournament venue, and media coverage is growing fast. I am recommending every golfer coming to Vietnam this fall include Danang in their plans. If you want to be the first to discover this new destination, check out come of our most popular tours or lets us tailor make a Vietnam golf package including Danang just for you.

Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu: Kota Kinabalu, or KK as it is affectionately called, is the capital of the East Malaysian State of Sabah. Over 50 percent of the land is still swathed in tropical million-year old rainforests. Being a coastal state, KK is well known for friendly people, endless stretches of white sandy beaches, world class beach resorts and not least a great golf destination with 4 excellent area golf courses.
There is also good nightlife as the town is the center for the mining and oil industry, which brings infrastructure for expatriates living in the area and golf holidaymakers visiting from further a field. Golfers visiting KK have called Sabah a tropical golfing paradise. The best part of it all is that it is summer all year round of warm weather, warm seas, warm hospitality, and great golf. Have a look at our recently added Malaysia Golf Tour Packages.
Let me know if you might be interested for this fall or winter.

With that I would like to thank those of you for your support during this trying time. To be sure, Thailand will bounce back and South East Asia remains the best value premium golf destination in the world. Moreover, we would not be here if it were not for loyal clients as you. If there is anything I can do for you please let me know. I would be glad build you a golf package to suit any budget and preferred style of travel.

Until the next newsletter, happy golfing!

Mark Siegel
Managing Director of Golfasian

Visit Golfasian Today!

Since May 20 there have been no more demonstrations and no political violence. Most foreign governments, including the United States and Hong Kong, have lifted their travel warnings.

All tourist areas and attractions, golf courses and hotels are in full normal operation (and were not generally affected by the demonstrations or any of the related violence aside from the number of visitors being down).