5 reasons why you should consider a golf holiday

I was lucky enough that golf really took me around the world. After college, I traveled extensively, playing on various international women’s golf tours and experiencing different people, cultures and lifestyles. Some experiences were easier than others, and some were so wonderful that it’s hard to describe.

Now that my son is 17 years old and playing championship golf, I have the opportunity to travel with him to his events and occasionally play golf alongside him at some of the best places.

Recently, we went to the Dominican Republic for an AJGA tournament. We arrived a day early, and he and I played Corales Golf Club, which was amazing and challenging. The course was well maintained, and the ocean views were amazing.

The next day, my son played a practice round and didn’t need his mother to follow him all day. So, I decided to take a trip to Casa de Campo to play Teeth of the Dog. I had heard so much about the courses over the years that I was eager to experience them myself.

Here are some of my takeaways and why I believe you should seriously consider an overseas golf trip.

1. Amazing views

The stunning beaches alone make this trip worth it. It’s hard to put into words how good ideas and how good course designs can be.

At Corales, even the holes away from the water were thoughtfully designed, challenging and beautiful. Every hole felt different, and the overall experience was unforgettable.

2. Getting out of your comfort zone

Traveling to a different country where another language is spoken can be exciting and challenging.

While most travelers would arrange a driver, I rented a car and planned to drive myself. It was a great way to see more of the countryside and experience the area outside of the resort. My GPS worked fine, and I only encountered one problem when I got to a toll booth that required pesos instead of US dollars. After getting a change from a helpful security guard, I was on my way.

Moments like that require a little troubleshooting, but often become some of the most memorable parts of the trip.

3. Dealing with different cultures

The people of the Dominican Republic were very nice. Everyone we met, inside and outside the resort, was incredibly welcoming and kind.

One of my favorite memories happened at customs, where the agent sang every time he checked our passports. We also appreciated how patient and encouraging the locals were as we tried to speak Spanish, despite our limited skills.

By the end of the trip, our Spanish had improved significantly. I actually found myself missing the opportunity to talk when we got home.

4. Caddy system

Teeth of the Dog are as good as their reputation suggests. The holes facing the ocean are amazing, and the course itself is unique.

I was playing in the afternoon, so the lesson was quiet. I was matched with a great caddy which made the experience even more enjoyable. Being able to walk the course while benefiting from his local knowledge added another dimension to the round.

He quickly made me trust him. After living there for 23 years, he gave excellent advice from the first hole. Later in the round, I faced a blind shot. He told me exactly where to go and how far to go. Honestly, I wouldn’t have chosen that line on my own.

As luck would have it, my second shot on that par 4 found the bottom of the eagle cup. I think my caddy was probably more excited than I was. It was a special moment, and one that could not have happened without his guidance.

Yes, I blew the gun, but his advice was invaluable.

5. Memories to last a lifetime

I enjoy photography in general, but I find myself taking even more photos when I’m on a golf trip. Looking back at those photos brings back wonderful memories of the courses, places, and people I met along the way.

The experience of discovering a new subject, exploring a new place, and meeting new people is truly priceless.

I would go back to the Dominican Republic in a heartbeat. We had a great trip, my son played well in his tournament, and we made memories that will last a lifetime. It was a win all around.