GOLFING THAILAND
The courses in Thailand are amazing. If you're a golfer that suffers through winter layoffs, how can you not by a ticket to the land of smiles and enjoy the tropical courses.So there are some things to consider when you come here to play, and as a veteran of the golf scene here for more than 12 years I compiled a list of things to consider.
1. COST: The price has gone up steadily over the years, but there are ways to save. Most courses offer 50% off if you T-off after 1 PM. Last week I played a course that usually costs 1500 and by playing in the afternoon we paid 750 baht and that includes the caddie, but not the TIP for the caddie, which is absolutely expected. The usual tip for a solid caddie is 300 up to 500 for the kind of caddie who can read greens like a local pro. So all in my last outing was 1050 baht or basically $30 US dollars.
2. CARTS: Carts are just now becoming a thing in the Thai golf scene. They have always been at courses that focus on foreign tourists or mountain courses; however, now more and more courses are not only offering carts but suggesting them -- of course at a fee -- but you can't blame them for trying to make a little extra money. I actually don't believe in using carts because let's face it this sport doesn't offer much exercise at all except for the cardio of walking and taking that away just seems wrong.
3. HEAT: Don't pack your polo shirts for playing in Thailand, they will be TOO hot. Shorts are okay on most courses and I recommend it because it is going to be HOT. But don't make the mistake that you can go collar less or sleeveless, this is a sport the Thai's consider to be posh and they will reject you. Also, watch the alcohol and drink lots of water. Heatstroke in the tropical heat of Thailand takes a few foreigners every year.
