Category Archives: Thai Culture and Thailand Country Information

Thailands Royal Resort - Royal Resort Hua Hin
Golf Stories
Golf Travel
Posted by - March 30, 2017

Thailands Royal Resort

Hua Hin is the oldest and most traditional of the Thai resorts. It combines the attractions of a modern holiday destination, 5 star hotels, fabulous restaurants, gorgeous beaches, first class golf courses, with the charm and fascination of a traditional fishing port. Which is exactly what it was like when I first visited, more than two decades ago. While most other Thai holiday destinations cater mainly to foreign tourists, Hua Hin is a holiday resort for foreigners as well as Thai nationals. Be...

Thai Culture and Thailand Country Information
Thailand Golf Holidays and Vacations
Posted by - December 11, 2015

Top 3 Reasons to Golf in Thailand

For the true golf aficionado, distance means nothing unless it pertains to judging which club to grab from your golf bag to make that sweet shot on the back nine. As such, the world is your oyster when it comes to locating the next great golfing destination, and Thailand is the pearl you will find when you schedule your Thailand golf holiday. A fully inclusive Thailand golf package puts you directly on the green for some of the best golfing that the world has to offer. With more than two hundred...

Thai Culture and Thailand Country Information
Thailand Golf Courses and Playing Conditions
Posted by - December 26, 2013

Golf Holiday Destination Thailand

Why golf in Thailand?   Thailand is probably the most spectacular golfing destination in the world, the beauty of her golf courses expresses it all.  We have lush greenery year round with palm trees and every other type of tropical flora and flowers creating a feast for the eyes.  Beautiful lakes and waterways, birds you’ve never seen before become a breathtaking walk in the park.  Churchill was so wrong when he said “golf is a good walk spoiled” – he never played in Thailand! The challenge of g...

Interesting Thailand Golf Snippits
Thai Culture and Thailand Country Information
Posted by - September 17, 2013

Will Thailand Become The World´s Biggest Golf Destination?

Lately Thailand golf tourism has skyrocketed to an estimated 750,000 arrivals in 2012, up 50% over the past three years. This is worth an estimated US$2 billion in revenue to the Kingdom. There is no doubt that Thai golf tourism is riding on the back of a general tourism explosion, with total foreign arrivals doubling over the last seven years to more than 22 million in 2012. While I personally would like Thailand golf to become the biggest golf destination in the world, I doubt that this will e...

Posted by - May 22, 2013

Golf In Korea Versus Golf In Thailand

Here are my rankings on the golfing in these 2 countries on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being best. Quality (30%):Korea (7):  Korea is a mountainous country with around 200 golf courses scattered from North to South. However the best golf courses are located on Cheju Island, sometimes called Korea’s Hawaii due to the year round temperate climate. My two favorite Korean golf courses are Nine Bridges and Sky 72, both of which have hosted numerous professional golf tournaments. Thailand (7): The...

Thai Culture and Thailand Country Information
Thailand Golf Courses and Playing Conditions
Posted by - March 19, 2013

Golf In Egypt Versus Golf In Thailand

Here are my rankings on the golfing in these 2 countries on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being best. Quality (30%) Egypt (6): Golf in the Egypt is widespread, especially in the resort areas such as Taba and Sharm El-Sheikh. Additionally, the Gary Player course at Soma Bay Resort is a sure standout. A high concentration of golf courses can also be found are in and around Cairo with the 27-hole Katameya Heights leading the pack. Thailand (7): Over 250 golf courses in Thailand are spread out across the ...

Posted by - March 7, 2013

Golf In Cambodia Versus Golf In Thailand

Here are my rankings on the golfing in these 2 countries on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being best. Quality (30%)Cambodia (6): Golf in Cambodia has been introduced only in the last 10 years and as such there are only 6 courses, 3 in Phnom Penh and 3 in Siem Reap. Although Phnom Penh is the capital the courses here are either private (Phnom Penh Grand) or in serious need of maintenance (Cambodia Country Club and Royal Cambodia). On the other hand the three Siem Reap golf courses welcome visitors and ...

Posted by - February 19, 2013

Golf In Australia Versus Golf In Thailand

Here are my rankings on the golfing in these 2 countries on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being best. Quality (30%)Australia (10): Most courses are set up for serious Australian golfers, who comprise some 10% of the overall population. The average Australian golf course is by far better than most other countries top courses. The top Australian courses include Royal Melbourne, Barnbougle Dunes, and New South Wales, all of which have hosted major PGA events. Thailand (7): Thai golf courses vary from av...

Posted by - November 6, 2012

Know Your Thailand Golf Tour Driver

Everyone knows that great golf, fantastic culture, and a comfortable resort are all key ingredients of a successful Thailand golf trip. However, the importance of a qualified driver who doubles as a friendly tour guide is often overlooked. I’ve had the opportunity to meet several godsends as well as some more goofy type drivers during my Thailand golf travels. On the positive side, golf tour operators who employ their own salaried drivers usually can make a Thailand golf holidaymaker’s trip very...

Thai Culture and Thailand Country Information
Thailand Golf Courses and Playing Conditions
Posted by - July 24, 2012

Chiang Mai Golf Magic

I am used to the frenetic pace of golf in Bangkok or golf in Pattaya, so whenever I head north get a real treat when I golf in Chiang Mai. For the best Chiang Mai golf resort, I check into The Chedi Chiang Mai where I feel always welcome at Chiang Mai’s only five-star hotel located on the Mae Ping River.  Close by, I explore the temples and check out the night bazaar, a mere five minute walk away. For the best golf in Chiang Mai, I drive out of town past rice fields, buffaloes, and mountains to ...

Posted by - July 10, 2012

Cheap Thailand Golf

Thailand golf rivals the world’s greatest golf destinations with challenging layouts by ‘A’ list designers. If there is a difference in Thailand, it is the value. Thailand golfers enjoy championship golf at greens fees of around $100 – $150 USD which is typically less than you’d pay in Hawaii, the Caribbean, Scotland, South Africa, and other premium golf destinations around the world. But world-class aside, here is a novel idea for the adventurous. Thailand also has many off-the-beaten-pat...

Posted by - June 26, 2012

Thailand Golf Holiday: Think More Than Hangover 2

Here is a great Thailand golf piece written by freelance journalist Jack Mairoo. Great weather, good food, glittering temples, bargain-filled markets, stunning beaches and verdant golf courses…. A dream! For an increasing number of visitors, Thailand is the ideal recession-friendly golf holiday destination, down to a tee. If you were one of the millions who saw "The Hangover Part 2", then you probably know this raunchy sequel takes place in Thailand. If you've seen the first one, ...

Posted by - October 19, 2011

Destinations For A Thailand Golf Package

Many golfers ask me what is the best destination for golf in Thailand. My answer is always ‘it depends”. For those who like a sunny beach destination, then the best golf in Thailand is either Phuket or Hua Hin. On the other hand, Thailand golfers looking for more authenticity and value-for-money would like golfing in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai the best. Next up are golfers in Thailand who are here for only a short break and want  a taste of Thailand’s best shopping. In this case, Bangkok ha...

Posted by - September 8, 2011

After the 18th hole in Bangkok

A round of golf usually finishes at the 18th hole at most golf clubs. Then it’s off home for a cup of tea or a hot chocolate before bed. Well one of the pleasures of taking a Bangkok golf holiday is the fun just does not stop at the Bangkok golf course. Bangkok not only has over 60 golf courses, but it is also known globally for its excellent shopping, great cultural attractions, great spa and massage, and of course a wide variety of restaurants and night life. The great thing about Bangkok is ...

Posted by - March 1, 2011

Thailand Golf Is Still A Game To Enjoy

Sometimes I think golfers on holiday forget that the game of golf is all about getting out in the fresh air to hit some balls and then have a cool drink with your fellow golfers afterwards. Maybe it is because we have been brain-washed. Golf in the 21th century seems to be all about one up man ship and this is being fuelled by the manufacturers with their massive marketing campaigns. “This revolutionary six layer ball will give you distance and those clubs made from new space-age materials wil...

Posted by - January 14, 2011

Thailand Really Is A Golfer’s Paradise

We all get bombarded by travel agents jargon or see the Tourist Boards latest TV adverts extolling their countries fantastic features. One such feature here in Thailand is golf! Well I can safely say that Thailand golf is in a very healthy state here in the Kingdom of smiles with thousand of overseas players playing here every year. But it’s not just the tourists who love it here, so do the professionals who make their living out of the game. Thailand recently hosted the 5th edition of the Roya...

Posted by - January 11, 2011

Bangkok Dining

Many on a Thailand golf package spend at least a few days in Thailand’s capital during their golf holiday as it offers convenient flight connections to around the world in addition to great golf, high standard accommodation, shopping, dining and entertainment. I am often asked for restaurant suggestions and while I do not claim to be a foodie, I know what I like. Here is a brief list of some of my favorites: ITALIANThere are many good Italian restaurants all over Bangkok in various price ranges...

Posted by - January 4, 2011

Amazing Thailand Always Amazes You

Those who have visited Thailand agree that it is almost impossible to explain for those who haven’t.  Different.  Even just plan weird.  The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s official slogan of ‘Amazing Thailand’ sums it up fairly well though comes off as just another cheeky marketing slogan until you’ve actually experienced it. Even among Asian cultures it stands out as unique. Thailand is one of the few places in Asia that has never been under the rule or dominance of a wester...

Posted by - August 31, 2010

Is Thailand safe for a golf holiday?

I regularly get asked this question regarding a golf holiday in Thailand. While Thailand has been in the news for all the wrong reasons recently, it still surprises me of people’s reluctance to travel to Thailand. Thailand is much more than Bangkok and Bangkok is more than just the two streets that was involved in the political unrest in May. Also, there are so many destinations in Thailand that make great golfing holidays in Thailand, all where life and golf have been and continue to go on nor...

Posted by - July 13, 2010

Top Non Golf Thailand Attractions

Want to plan a Thailand golf vacation but also need to make sure your non-golfing travel partners are happy?  No problem.  Below are some of the more popular non-golf activities to include on your golf holiday itinerary. All Over ThailandMassage:  Thai massage, Swedish massage, jet lag massage, sports  or golf massage, foot massage, neck & shoulder massage, fish massage, aroma therapy, hot stone therapy and more. You are never far from a spa in Thailand. Most good ho...

Posted by - April 27, 2010

8 Do’s & Don’ts When Golfing In Thailand

1. Given that you’ll be out on the course for at least four hours do make sure you put plenty of sunscreen on. It’s also advisable to wear a hat or cap. The Sun when golf in Phuket can be the strongest compared to all other Thailand golf destinations. 2. Although golfing in Thailand is relaxed, don’t expect to be allowed onto the course wearing inappropriate clothing. Do wear a collared shirt with slacks, Bermuda shorts, or a skirt (provided you are a lady). Mock collars (aka Tiger Woods) are a...

Posted by - September 1, 2009

5 THAILAND GOLF ETIQUETTE TIPS

When golfing in Thailand remember these 5 simple points of golf etiquette and everyone will be assured of a satisfying golf experience. The overriding principle is that consideration should be shown to others on Thailand golf courses at all times.   1. The Spirit of the Game in ThailandUnlike many sports, golf in Thailand is played without the supervision of a referee. The game relies on the integrity of the individual to show consideration for other golfers in Thailand and to abide by th...

Posted by - July 7, 2009

The Thailand Golf Experience

Here is a Thailand golf post by Gerry Norquist, former Asian Tour star. There is a special magic about playing golf in a Kingdom.  It has been said that the golf experience in “the land of smiles” is like no other anywhere in the world.   The many diverse courses available to the golf enthusiast throughout the nation cater to the beginner and the expert with equal delight. A round of golf in Thailand typically begins with a friendly greeting at the club drop off area near the ...

Posted by - September 16, 2008

Why Bangkok Was Rated Best City In The World?

Bangkok was recently rated as the 2008 World’s Best City by “Travel + Leisure”. Here is my take on the eight reasons why. 1. Abundance of world class hotels and resorts. I can not think of another city with more 5 star resorts, readily available vacancies, and costs for luxury accommodations as low as Bangkok. 2. Some of the regions best shopping including both local centers like MBK (clothes and telephones), Chatuchak Market (everything under the sun), Pantip Plaza (computers) , and Thaniya Pla...

Posted by - September 3, 2008

Thailand Political Situation

For those of you planning on a Thailand golf holiday, here is the real situation as of 12:00 noon on Wednesday September 3. A state of emergency has been declared in Bangkok city as a result of clashes between pro- and anti- government protestors which have turned violent. A number of state enterprise labor unions are to stage strikes and to selectively cut water and electricity to government offices, halt buses and disrupt train service throughout the country. The Bangkok protests have been con...

Posted by - August 8, 2008

Where Is The Clubhouse?

What would you do if you were on the way to a Thailand golf course and came across this sign? Well I came across this sign at Lakewood Golf Club in Bangkok on Friday and it made me chuckle. Guess it put me in a good mood because I shot 3 under my handicap. The Bangkok golf course was in the best condition that I have ever seen it in and that probably helped a bit as well. Fast greens, well defined fairways, and even consistency and firmness of the sand bunkers made playing at Lakewood a joy. For...

Posted by - February 13, 2008

Useful Thailand Golf Expressions

Do you want to be admired and respected by golf club staff, caddies and other local Thais on your Thailand golf vacation? Here’s a tip: learn a few words of Thai golf vocabulary! Aside from hello and goodbye (sawadee), are you well? (sabai dee mai), and what is your name? (khun chue arai), good luck (chok dee) is a nice thing to say when you are leaving someone, or when having a drink and raising your glass to someone (like “Cheers!”). Remember, though, to be polite by ending with krap if you a...

Posted by - November 26, 2007

Dress For Success On The Thailand Golf Course

Do you want to be admired and respected by golf club staff, caddies and other local Thais on your Thailand golf vacation? Here’s a tip – wear the right color clothes on the right day! In Thailand the days of the week are named after the planets in the same order as some Western countries. In Thai, wan (pronounced wun) means day and it comes before the name of the planet. Each day is also associated with a color. Traditionally, people wear items of clothing according to the color of the day. A f...

Posted by - November 20, 2007

Loy Krathong Festival While Golfing In Thailand

The upcoming months are a great time to be golfing in Thailand – and if you are planning to be here this month, try to stay over the weekend of November 24th to take in, and indeed participate in, one of Thailand’s most beautiful and popular Festivals. The Festival is called Loy Krathong, and it takes place on the full moon in November. During the evening, many people will go down to their local klong (canal) or river or even the beach to float their krathongs. They believe this will bring them ...

Posted by - August 13, 2007

Happy Thai Mothers Day From Pattaya Thailand

Happy Birthday to Her Majesty the Queen of Thailand! August 12th is the birthday of H.M Queen Sirikit and a Thai public holiday. Lucky for golfers, since August 12th falls on a Sunday this year, the holiday is celebrated on Monday the 13th, this giving those who golf in Thailand a chance to get in an extra round of golf as the courses are less busy than normal due to the Thais visiting their families. This day is also known in Thailand as "Mothers Day" as Queen Sirikit is regarded as t...