|
Dear Golf Travelers,
Welcome to the latest issue of the Asian Golf Nation, the source for news breaking information about golf in Asia. In addition, unique golf playing tips for South East Asia's tropical environment, announcements of golf travel promotions, and our latest tournament offers are all parts of this newsletter.
It is hard to believe another high season is descending upon us as it seems like only yesterday we were promoting travel in low season. October is off to our best start ever with 1,245 golf visitor arrivals planned across the region. Our offices are reporting good bookings the Christmas and New Year period as well.
Two out of three of you are choosing Thailand as your preferred golf destination. Most others are travelling to Vietnam, where new courses and destinations are coming up at a staggering pace. Although Thailand and Vietnam have separate traditional and cultural diversity, they both have their own attractions of alluring golf holidaymakers wanting the best in service and golf course quality at affordable prices.
You will find a lot of news and South East Asia golf course updates in this newsletter, which I hope you will find interesting and helpful. So sit back and enjoy this edition of the Asian Golf Nation!
A winner of the 2014 & 2015 World Golf Awards with the title of Asia's Best Golf Tour Operator 2014 and Thailand's Best Inbound Golf Tour Operator 2015, Golfasian has once again been nominated for Asia's Best Golf Tour Operator. Please, vote for us now:
With that I wish all golfers have many great golfing opportunities. For those considering a golf trip, the culture, beauty, service, and wealth of choices throughout SE Asia are perfectly suited for creating unforgettable golf experiences. Tailor-made itineraries fitting your specific needs, expectations and budgets are our specialty. Drop me an email with your request; you will be surprised by the possibilities.
As always there are lots of golf developments around the region, so sit back and enjoy this edition of the Asian Golf Nation.
Mark Siegel
Managing Director of Golfasian
In This Issue:
Visit Golfasian Today!
|
|
Bangkok, Thailand |
|
BANGKOK AT NIGHT |
MasterCard has just cited Bangkok the top-ranked tourist destination with 21 million arrivals projected for this year. Bangkok also has some of Asia's best golf courses, such as the two year old Nikanti Golf Club, a one-of-a-kind unique 18-hole track, situated in Nakhon Pathom province west of Bangkok. The capital is a great stopover as part of a dual-centered golf holiday. Other popular golfing destinations such as Pattaya & Hua Hin are only a 1.5-3 hour drive from the city.
The golf, shopping, food, culture, nightlife and convenience and transportation convenience tick all the boxes. |
|
Hua Hin, Thailand |
|
The Master Golf Resort |
Thailand's most diverse golf destination is set to welcome a new course. The Master Golf Resort is set on a stunning 100-hectare site overlooking the Khao Chee Chan Buddha which is visible from every hole on the golf course. Currently under construction and expected to open late 2017, the course has been designed by Ron Fream and the golf club will be managed by IMG. Zoysia grass is being used for the tees, fairways and rough which is nice to see and should be more playable than the fancy Paspalum more often used these days on other premium courses. The site is only 30 minutes from the center of Pattaya. Stay tuned for more updates.
|
|
|
Hanoi, Vietnam |
|
Long Bien Golf Course, Hanoi, Vietnam |
Long Bien Golf Course has expanded to 27-holes. The additional 9 designed by Nelson Hayworth are a perfect match with the original 18 and together all 27 have the best playing surfaces in Hanoi. The central location is perfect to minimize commutes and the clubhouse is modern and so large it can accommodate 5 Indian weddings, at the same time. The only downside I see is that caddies are all male and don't speak a word of English.
Also expanding in Hanoi is BRG King's Island Golf Resort. The Lake View Course is open for play as normal. The Mountain View Course is closed for extensive renovations, and a new third track, the King's Course, is undergoing earthworks now. This new course is a 19 hole Nicklaus designed layout due to come on stream in 2017 and will take advantage of hilly terrain and surrounding lakes. A separate main entrance and club house is planned as well as access not only by boat, but also by car. |
|
|
Bintan, Indonesia |
|
Laguna Golf Bintan, Bintan, Indonesia |
With a complete revamp, the Greg Norman designed Laguna Golf Bintan course re-opened last month. The course redesign was done by Paul Jansen and it now plays as a par-72 with both nines having holes that run along the Straights of Singapore and several holes with excellent views of the Singapore skyline. The recent focus brings the course back to its original quality and enhances the natural surroundings. In addition to the golf course improvements, the clubhouse has also been refurbished and brought up to Banyan Tree standards. Laguna Bintan combined with several other quality courses nearby makes for a nice golf holiday for couples, those living nearby, and golfers looking for a new winter destination.
|
|
|
|
|
In March 2017 we have our two biggest events in the golfing calendar, the Amari Hua Hin Golf Week and Amari Pattaya Golf Week. Each event sees a field of 120 people from around the world play the best golf courses in each destination. While the tournaments aren't until March 2017, we have 50 players already booked, with most people taking the free room upgrade from the Amari Hotels. Book your position now and don't miss out on a great week of golf!
We have 12 group tours throughout the year and all details of these events can be found on the Asia Golf Week website.
If you would like to book one of our events, or have any questions, please email us at [email protected] |
|
|
My name is Tim Spriggs, an Englishman who lives and works in Singapore. For the past couple of years a group of friends and I have undertaken a short golf tour elsewhere in Asia, last year in Danang Vietnam and this year in Thailand. Whilst we play in Singapore, membership is prohibitively expensive so travelling works out cheaper and we enjoy exploring new places and their golf offer. We loved Danang, but having done quite a bit of research knew that Thailand would be great fun with superb food and some decent nightlife. Notwithstanding, we weren't yet ready for a venue such as Pattaya and thought that Chiang Mai would be a sensible "christening"; for many of us this was the first visit to Thailand.
Working with Golfasian came about because of a simple Google search. Their website was comprehensive and informative and our initial enquiry was responded to promptly which always impresses. We were given some excellent advice about which courses to play and where to stay, preferring downtown. This was only a 3-day trip but it felt good to have everything organised and allowed the golf to take centre stage.
[Read the entire interview online]
[ Read more Testimonials ]
|
|
Congratulations! |
On 24 September Laurie McCourt made a Hole In One (A6) at Springfield Royal Country Club in Hua Hin Thailand. In addition to a certificate they gave him a coupon good for 2 free rounds.
Laurie and Neil were scheduled for a 'Free Day' on the 26th, so they decided to use the certificate and go back while the rest of the group took the day off. That day Neil Townsend made a Hole In One on the same hole. What are the chances of this happening?
"Thanks very much for organising our trip to Thailand. Deb and I had a wonderful time which was greatly helped by the Golfasian staff in Hua Hin. My hole in one (like Laurie's) was on the 6th hole at Springfield on Monday 26th Sept. I think the distance was about 135 yards and I used a 5 iron. Strangely, after playing golf for 50 years and never having a hole in one, this was my second in 7 weeks as I had one at Long Reef Golf Club here in Sydney (playing with Laurie & Ray) on 5th August. Very exciting but quite weird! Can you extend our thanks to the Golfasian staff in Hua Hin for their friendly efficiency. We look forward to returning to Hua Hin in the future," said Neil.
Laurie added that "Playing the 6th at Springfield, 133 yards, I hit a 7 iron, 3 bounces and in the hole. My caddie was ecstatic, jumped on me and nearly knocked me over. As a result of the hole in one we were given 2 free rounds vouchers. Playing with Neil 2 days later we were standing on the 6th tee ,Neil said "another hole in one" and I said "no your turn" and Lo and behold in went his shot. As Neil said, his second in several weeks, and my second this year having one at my club, Long Reef, Sydney Northern Beaches in April, my third overall. Great trip, great staff and does not get better than staying at the Centara."
Congratulations to both Neil & Laurie! Amazing!!! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chiang Mai, Thailand
|
Chiang Mai, sometimes referred to as 'The Rose of The North', is a place I enjoy returning to again and again. Thai people are well known to be some of the nicest and friendliest people anywhere, and nowhere is that more evident than in Chiang Mai.
Golf wise, Alpine Chiangmai and Chiangmai Highlands are certainly on the 'A' list of Thailand courses and by year end both will be sporting 27 holes. There are also numerous 'B' list courses well worth playing and which offer good value. Many of these 'B' courses have upped their game in recent years with significant improvements to course conditions. Their clubhouse facilities generally still lag far behind Alpine and Highlands, however I don't mind as at least they have their priorities straight!
Though I live in Bangkok and enjoy the big city for all it has to offer, I never tire of visiting Chiang Mai somewhat regularly. The much more relaxed atmosphere makes for a nice contrast with the capital's fast pulse. It's easy to get around, as most hotels are no more than 15 minutes from the airport and most Chiang Mai golf courses within 30 – 45 minutes of the city center. Costs for just about everything are lower than most SE Asia golf destinations, particularly in low season. The natural scenery with the surrounding mountains is spectacular. There are numerous cultural attractions, and though I'm not much for shopping, people who are will have no problem entertaining themselves with the countless night markets, shopping bazaars and even ultra-modern shopping malls.
If you haven't been to Chiang Mai or haven't been there recently, you owe it to yourself to check it out!
View our Chiang Mai Golf Packages | Chiang Mai Golf Courses |
The Chiangmai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort opened in 2005 and significantly added to the quality of Chiang Mai golf courses. The drive to Highlands from Chiang Mai leads through exceptionally beautiful landscape, in an eastern direction passing rice fields and plantations into the mountains.
Its tranquility, high elevation, cool climate, fresh air, pure water, and fertile soil, form the perfect place.
[Read more about one of Thailand's Best Golf Courses]
|
Located in the city and on the banks of the Ping River, the Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort (formerly Sofitel Riverside Hotel) offers 75 suites and deluxe rooms each with private balconies. A wooden theme design throughout is combined with modern facilities and ancient Chiang Mai heritage. The Chiang Mai resort offers the highest standard of service and is an excellent choice for discerning Chiang Mai golf visitors.
[Read more about one of Thailand's Best Hotels]
|
|
Chiang Mai - Bangkok (2-Destination) Golf Package
|
Chiang Mai is the gateway to the north of Thailand and home to some great golfing. Bangkok is well known for the best shopping in Thailand and also has a myriad of championship golf courses. Stay at golf resorts in both destinations and play top golf courses. The trip between Chiang Mai and Bangkok is a short 1 hour by domestic flight. This Thailand golf trip combines the best cultural sights with excellent golf and is perfect for those looking to both golf in natural surroundings and explore Thailand's capital in one trip. Everything is taken care of for you so sit back and get ready for a golf trip of a lifetime.
View the complete golf holiday itinerary.
To meet your preferences and budget please contact us for further information. |
|
Message from the Golf Course GM
Derek Schade
PGA of Canada
General Manager -
Chiangmai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort
|
Chiang Mai's Golf Tourism Outlook – A Bright Future
With Chiangmai Highlands' expansion to 27 holes and Alpine Chiangmai's plan to open an additional nine later this year, Chiang Mai is blossoming as a golf destination and meeting increased demand with greater capacity, particularly at the premium level.
Much of the area's success is due to the lure of the old city and its cultural heritage, but combined with the Northern Thai people's gentle temperament and grace, visitors are made to feel especially welcome wherever they go. This, plus spectacular, mountainous surroundings providing a stunning backdrop to the golf experience, as well as generally cooler temperatures than the rest of the country means Chiang Mai is unique amongst Thailand's golf venues and becoming increasingly popular.
There are now more courses to choose from and more importantly a good number of high quality courses. A combination of the growing market opportunity and a wider selection has had a positive influence, forcing every club to improve their golf offer.
Clubs are recognizing the importance of international levels of management and especially optimum playing conditions throughout the year. As a result, several of the courses in the area have undertaken significant investment and refurbishment programmes so are in markedly better condition than in recent times. Importantly, this conditioning is sustainable. Greater attention is being paid to details such as bunker edging, fairway mowing lines, manicured approach areas and consistent green speeds which has resulted in a more rewarding golf experience for visitors and locals.
Chiang Mai is seeing more golfers arriving in what is typically referred to as low-season. A significant impact on golf tourism can be attributed to Asian Golfers travelling to Chiang Mai. We have seen consistent growth in the number of golfers from Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong during the summer months. Unusually, as they normally visit during the "winter" months from December to February, Koreans and Japanese golfers are also arriving in numbers during this period. Overall, there is a mood of optimism in the industry in this area of the country.
Discover Chiang Mai on your next golf holiday. We are ready to receive you with a warm welcome and great golf.
Derek Schade
PGA of Canada
General Manager
Chiangmai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort |
|
|
|
|
|
Thailand |
Bangkok |
- Lam Luk Ka Country Club: Course will be closed on 14 October for a tournament.
- Muang Kaew Golf Club: Course will be closed on 5, 10, 14 and 25 October and on 4, 11 and 25 November for tournaments.
- Navatanee Golf Club: Course will be closed on 14 & 21 October for tournaments.
- Riverdale Golf Club: Course will be closed on 20- 21 and 28 October for tournaments.
- Royal Golf & Country Club: Course will be closed on 7 October and on 1 and 3-4 November for tournaments.
- Summit Windmill Golf Club: Course will be undergoing coring green maintenance on 3 & 10 October.
- Suwan Golf & Country Club: Course will be closed on 21 October and on 12, 17, 23, 25 and 30 November for tournaments.
- Thai Country Club: Course will be closed on 10 & 17 October for tournaments.
- Thana City Golf & Sports Club: Holes 7-9 are under renovation until the end of October.
- The Royal Gems Golf and Sports Club: Course will be closed in the afternoons of 7, 26 and 28 October and 11, 14, 18 and 21 November for tournaments.
- The Royal Gems Golf City (Dream Arena): Course underwent coring greens on 26 September.
- Vintage Golf Club: Course will be closed on 3, 11 and 25 November for tournaments.
- Windsor Park & Golf Club: Course will be closed on 11, 14 and 18 October for tournaments.
|
Vietnam |
Danang |
|
Hanoi |
- King's Island Golf Resort: Course will be undergoing green renovation on hole 17 during 4 October to 1 November. The course remains open and golfers can play on a temporary green. Course will be closed on 9 October for the Hanoi Golf Association Tournament.
|
Indonesia |
Bali |
|
Malaysia |
Kuala Lumpur |
|
Cambodia |
Siem Reap |
|
Singapore |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Siam Country Club Pattaya Amateur Golf Week -
October 2016 |
Pattaya,
Thailand |
16 - 22
October, 2016 |
[find out more] |
|
Chiang Mai Amateur
Golf Week -
October
2016 |
Chiang Mai,
Thailand |
23 - 29
October, 2016 |
[find out more] |
|
Amari Hua Hin Amateur
Golf Week -
March
2017 |
Hua Hin,
Thailand |
12 - 18
March, 2017 |
[find out more] |
|
Amari Pattaya Amateur
Golf Week -
March
2017 |
Pattaya,
Thailand |
19 - 25
March, 2017 |
[find out more] |
|
Centara World Masters -
June
2017 |
Hua Hin,
Thailand |
11 - 17
June, 2017 |
[find out more] |
|
Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort 2 Ball Golf Championship -
June
2017 |
Pattaya, Thailand |
18 - 24
June, 2017 |
[find out more] |
|
|
|
|
|
Panoramic Mountain View Villas in Hua Hin
|
High-spec German standard villas with panoramic mountain views – promotional price for first 5 villas only!
The ultimate 'Age Appropriate' luxury pool villas in Hua Hin – ground breaking technology and innovation for those looking for the best possible lifestyle on offer on this new full service development. This family run developer has constructed high quality residences all around the world since 1889. Customers that expect the best will have their expectations exceeded by these intelligent, eco-friendly villas that utilise the very best of German design, construction and materials. The huge list of features include: full Smart House system, thermal insulation, double glazing, LED lighting, inverter air conditioning, and much more. 10% discount on the first 5 villas at the promotional offer price of 8.4m. Located next to Banyan golf course and Mahasamutr Country Club. Find out more! |
|
|
|
Where To Golf In Thailand – A City Or A Resort?
Thailand has 5 main golf destinations, two are cities (Bangkok and Chiang Mai) and three are beach resorts (Hua Hin, Pattaya, and Phuket).
Bangkok is home to over 10 million residents. However, it's safe to say that Bangkok has the most golf courses of any destination in Thailand. There are 60 golf courses located within 1 hour from the center of Bangkok; of which 20 or so are well-suited for visitor play.
[READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE] |
Stable Swing
I was watching some coaching on the Golf Channel this week and was reminded of a tip once given to me. On the TV they were talking about the importance of finishing the swing whereas my friend gave me this tip...when swinging, always finish with your belt buckle pointing at the target. It has served me well, why not give it a try.
|
Other golf stories can be found at the Thailand Golf Zone, Vietnam Golf Zone, Phuket Golf Zone and Vietnam Golf Tourism Blogs where there are over 1,600 original golf articles & commentary dealing exclusively with golf in Asia and golf travel.
I would love to hear about any golf tips you may have developed for getting the maximum enjoyment from your golf trips, and can incorporate some in future articles. Therefore if you have any golf tips or suggestions you would like to share, please let me know by dropping me an email. |
|
|
|
|
Have you thought about golf travel insurance for your trip? Golfasian has teamed up with Pacific Cross insurance to offer:
|
Personal Accident Insurance
- up to
USD 65,000
|
Medical Treatment
- up to
USD 75,000
|
Hole-In-One
- up to
USD 300
|
Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation Loss/Damage of Baggage
- up to
USD 800
|
Loss/Damage of Golfing Equipment
- up to
USD 2,000
|
|
AND A LOT MORE !
For more information visit our website.
|
|
|
|
|