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Golf
in Thailand
 Amazing
Golf Package
Baht 7,000 nett at Grand China Princess Hotel
Package includes :
- 2 Nights accommodation with American Breakfast
- Round trip transfer from hotel - golf course ... More |
Golf
is one of the most popular sports in Thailand. It arrived
here a century ago and was quickly taken up by the elite
and fashionable.Among the first sponsors of the game were
the Armed Forces and government institutions, which built
and continue to own some of the finest courses in the country.
Golf's popularity rose
dramatically after the country hosted its first international
tournament-the 1975 World Cup. The number of courses rose
sharply in the past decade, in step with the country's economic
boom. The world's top designers have come and left their
marks, so have many world-class players. Now there are at
least a few courses in or within easy reach of all major
cities. Most courses built in the last 10 years offer accommodations
on site or nearby, plus recreational facilities for the
whole family. For the more adventurous, there are older,
natural courses in remote areas around the country owned
by the Royal Irrigation Department, the Electricity Generating
Authority of Thailand and the State Railway of Thailand,
all offering good value.
The best time to come is the cool season, from November
to March. From April to October, it is very hot and wet.
But even in the rainy months, the heavy pour usually comes
in the afternoon, and for only a few minutes. And since
most courses have good drainage systems, the rains should
not interrupt your game for long. At some facilities you
may need to book ahead, through your club or your hotels.
Do book in advance for the weekends, for attendance goes
up sharply at most courses, and for the peak travel season,
from December to February.
The state of the economy not withstanding, greens fees continue
to be very reasonable. So are the fees for the well-trained,
helpful caddies. Service on green and at the clubhouse,
as befitting the Land of Smiles, is prompt and courteous.
Since the country is well connected by road, rail and air,
you can take day trips to the courses and return to stay
in the city, or hire a car and draw up your own itinerary.
Lodging facilities in all major cities run the full spectrum
from the cozy to the luxurious, and in every town there
is at least one comfortable place to stay. For the family,
or to fill a break in your schedule, there is a diverse
choice of culture, adventure, dining and shopping available
wherever you choose to tee-off. |
| Bangkok
and Central Plains |
Bangkok
is a natural golfing hub, with dozens of championship-standard
courses in and around its perimeter. The neighboring provinces
of Pathum Thani to the north, Nakhon Pathom to the northwest,
and Chachoengsao to the east, each boast a number of world-class
facilities.
The area is the major rice bowl of the country, and many
golf courses here are carved out of rice paddies. The terrain
is flat, but most golf courses compensate for this by crafting
beautiful layouts with lots of water hazards. The older
courses have shadier fairways, with mature vegetation, making
it pleasant to play even in the most torrid months.
There is much to do after a day of golf. Bangkok, capital
since 1782, is known as much for its spectacular temples
and palaces as for the wide range of dining, shopping and
entertainment it offers. For the family, a cruise up the
arterial Chao Phraya to the ruins of the old capital of
Ayutthaya and a boat trip through the canals that once gave
the city the nickname "Venice of the East" are
highly recommended. The choice of accommodation in the city
runs from economy to luxurious, and many golf courses have
lodging facilities on site or nearby |
| Golf
Tour Suggestions |
One-Week
Itinerary
Day One:
Head north of Bangkok to Ekachai Golf & Country Club,
whose course is considered one of the most difficult in
the country. Evening at leisure, with shopping in one of
the city's many open-air markets
Day Two:
A day of golf at Krungthep Kreetha, a popular, busy and,
thanks to recent upgrading, one of the best in the area.
Evening meal in a Thai restaurant with traditional dance
show.
Day Three:
A leisurely day, with visit to the Grand Palace and Temple
of the Emerald Buddha, held sacred by the local populace
and a must on visitors' itineraries. Afternoon shopping
and night out at one of Bangkok's numerous pubs.
Day Four:
Today's round is at the Royal Thai Air Force Golf Club,
an unusual gem set between two main runways at Bangkok International
Airport. Evening cruise along the majestic Chao Phraya River.
Day Five:
Tee off early at Navatanee in the eastern suburbs, one of
Thailand's best-maintained and most challenging courses.
Evening at leisure followed by a late Thai-style supper.
Day Six:
A day for sightseeing around the city, or a day trip to
the Floating Market. End the day with a seafood dinner at
one of the city's many restaurants.
Day Seven:
Early start for a 90-minute trip to the west of Bangkok
for a day of golf at the Rose Garden, reckoned by many as
the best and prettiest in the country. Enjoy a Thai evening
meal at its clubhouse before returning to the city. |
| Eastern
Seaboard |
The provinces
on the Eastern Seaboard are major agricultural and industrial
producers. In the past decade, recreational golf has grown
in step with the industrial estates, with new courses springing
up to serve the expatriates and local enthusiasts.
Some of the most famous name in golf have created impressive
layouts with first-class facilities out of the rocky, sandy
terrain along the highway running eastward to the border
with Cambodia. Some cater to serious players, others to
the holiday golfers, and yet others fall somewhere in between.
Golfing action is centered around Chon Buri and Pattaya.
Just two hours' drive from the capital, the area is ideal
for day trips, though most courses, if they don't have their
own hotels, lie within a short drive of a good facility.
Pattaya, a town unto itself, is officially part of the province,
and offers all manners of lodgings, dining and entertainment,
for singles as well as for families. Water sports, lounging
on the beach and excursions to the islands in the Gulf of
Thailand are some of the most popular tourist activities. |
| Golf
Tour Suggestions |
Three-Day
Itinerary
Day One:
Depart Bangkok in the morning for the Thai Country Club
course, located an hour out of the city on the main Bangkok-Pattaya
Highway. After golf, transfer by air-conditioned coach to
the beach resort of Pattaya.
In the evening visit the spectacular Alcazar Cabaret.
Day Two:
After an early breakfast, go on a 30-minute drive to Laem
Chabang course, one of the region's most attractive. After
a late lunch, spend the afternoon at Mini Siam, where some
of Thailand's most famous historical buildings and structures
have been created in miniature. Alternatively, visit Ripley's
Believe It or Not! in Central Pattaya. Enjoy a seafood meal
on Pattaya's beachfront in the evening.
Day Three:
A day at leisure at the beach, beside the pool, shopping
or exploring local attractions. Alternatively, play a round
at a nearby course, such as Siam Country Club, some 20 minutes
from Pattaya. Return in the evening to Bangkok.
One-Week Itinerary
Day One:
After an early morning breakfast, transfer by air-conditioned
coach to the compact but spectacular course at Bangphra
Golf International, an hour's drive away along the main
Bangkok-Pattaya Highway. Afterwards, travel on to Pattaya.
After an evening meal at a seafood restaurant, enjoy a cabaret
show.
Day Two:
After an early breakfast, a quick 20-minute drive to the
Siam Country Club, one of Pattaya's oldest and most popular.
Late afternoon transfer to Nongnooch village, some 20 minutes'
drive away, to see a potted cultural history of Thailand
plus a mini zoo and local handicrafts. Dinner in Pattaya.
Day Three:
A day at leisure. Enjoy Pattaya's numerous sporting activities,
or shop for local products.
Day Four:
Short transfer to Eastern Star Golf Course, set beside the
sea at nearby Rayong. Sample local cuisine at dinner before
returning to Pattaya.
Day Five:
Another day at leisure. Visit the offshore islands and enjoy
a beach lunch followed by an afternoon of scuba diving.
Alternatively, enjoy a round of golf at one of the courses
located in and around Pattaya
Day Six:
Today's golf is at Plu Ta Luang Golf at nearby Sattahip,
owned and run by the Royal Thai Navy. Return to Pattaya
for dinner.
Day Seven:
Return to Bangkok stopping en route at the Bangpakong Riverside
Country Club, a relatively new course with lots of character.
Afterwards drive on to Bangkok, just an hour away. |
| Western
Region |
Golf
in the Western region is centered in the Hua Hin-Cha-am
area and around River Kwae in Kanchanaburi.
Hua Hin and Cha-am, both resort towns in
neighbouring provinces - Phetchaburi and Prachuap Kiri Khan,
respectively-offer good golf. Both have courses with views
of the Gulf of Thailand. The weather is pleasant for most
of the year, with cooling breezes offering respite from
the sun even in the hottest months. Besides the sandy beach,
holiday makers have the choice of offshore outings or hiking
in Sam Roi Yot National Park, just over an hour's drive
from Hua Hin. Phetchaburi, on the other hand, is home to
magnificent temples, ancient summer palace, and home-made
sweets-considered the best in the kingdom.
Cha-am is 175 kms southwest of Bangkok.
A drive takes three hours. Hua Hin, 20 km away, is served
by train, coach and plane. A range of accommodations is
available in both towns, and also in the provincial capitals.
Kanchanaburi, also a three-hour drive
from Bangkok, is known around the world as the site of the
historic Bridge Over the River Kwae. But it is now becoming
known as an attractive destination for recreational golfers,
with several world-class courses in picturesque settings.
Though the drive from Bangkok takes just about two hours,
you should consider staying at least a few days. The country's
third-largest province, Kanchanaburi has waterfalls, mountains
and jungles just beyond its provincial capital, making it
a natural hub for trekking, hiking, river rafting, and just
about every other outdoors activity. A visit to the War
Museum and Cemetery is a must, and a trip up the valley
to EGAT's dams recommended for the spectacular views.
The golf courses have their own accommodations on site or
nearby. There are resort hotels along the rivers, but few
in the town itself, so reservations are advisable. |
| Hua
Hin - Golf Tour Suggestions |
Five-Day
Itinerary
Day One:
Transfer to Hua Hin from Bangkok, stopping en route in Phetchaburi
to view it's famous Ban Pun Palace. Check in at a hotel
in Hua Hin. Evening at leisure, including a seafood meal.
Day Two:
After breakfast, head off to Palm Hills Resort & Country
Club, a hilly course just 15 minutes' drive from the town
center.
Day Three:
Early morning tee-off at the Springfield Royal Country Club,
located 15 km. from Hua Hin. After golf, visit one of the
numerous national parks in this area. Overnight stay in
Prachuap Kiri Khan
Day Four:
Early morning start at Sawang Resort Golf Club. Spend the
afternoon in town or on the beach. Evening transfer back
to Hua Hin.
Day Five:
Today's golf is at the Royal Hua Hin, a favorite with the
pros as well as visitors. Evening return to Bangkok for
overnight stay. |
| Kanchanaburi
- Golf Tour Suggestions |
Five-Day
Itinerary
Day One:
Depart Bangkok by bus to Kanchanaburi, three-hours' journey
away. From this well-known town, take a trip to the Bridge
Over the River Kwai. Visit the War Museum and Cemetery.
Overnight stay at a resort on the riverside.
Day Two:
The golf tour begins at the Nichigo Resort & Country
Club, which features three courses. Spend the afternoon
here before returning to the hotel for a Thai dinner.
Day Three:
After breakfast, head off to the Barrington Saiyoke, some
10 km. from Kanchanaburi. After golf, leave for Tong Pha
Phum district for a night's stay at the Green World Hot
Spring Resort.
Day Four:
Tee-off at the Green World Hot Spring Resort. Afternoon
at leisure, before returning to Kanchanaburi.
Day Five:
Finish the tour with a round at the Mission Hills Golf Club,
one of the most beautiful in Western Thailand. |
| Northern
Region |
The North
is ideal for a golf holiday, with its long mountain ranges,
wide valleys and spectacular jungle scenery within easy
reach of culture-rich cities, and pleasant weather year-round.
Because of the altitude, it is cooler than other regions,
with temperature in the single digits in the cool months
of December and January.
The regional capital of Chiang Mai, 700 kms from Bangkok,
has the biggest number of golf courses, most with magnificent
views of surrounding hills and valleys. Chiang Rai, three
hours' drive to the North, boasts a number of championship
courses in picturesque settings.
Towns in the lower North offer small gems of courses owned
and run by EGAT, in areas surrounding its dams, with moderate
albeit comfortable accommodation nearby.
Besides splendid golf, the North offers unique cultural
charms. A separate Kingdom for centuries, these provinces
have their own distinct heritage: architecture, arts and
crafts, dialect and cuisine. Chiang Mai, capital of the
Lanna Kingdom for 700 years, is home to flourishing cottage
industries: silk and fabrics, silverware, pewter, lacquerware,
celadon pottery, wood carving, to name just a few.
Visits to craftsmen' villages near the provincial capital
are a must for shoppers and non-shoppers alike.For outdoorsmen,
the forest and mountains of the North offer great appeal,
with choice of hiking, hilltribe visits, river rafting,
and jungle treks, among others. |
| Golf
Tour Suggestions |
Five-Day Itinerary
Day One:
Following the one-hour flight from Bangkok, check into a hotel.
Spend the rest of the day on a walking tour of the city, followed
by a northern style dinner.
Day Two:
Morning tee-off at the Royal Chiang Mai Golf Resort, 26 km.
down the Chiang Mai-Prao Highway. After golf, return to Sansai
for handicraft shopping. Back to Chiang Mai to explore the
Night Bazaar.
Day Three:
Travel three hours on the road north to Chiang Rai to play
at Santiburi Country Club. Spend the night in the hilly resort
of Chiang Rai.
Day Four:
Tee-off nice and early at the Waterford Valley Chiang Rai.
Take a leisurely return trip back to Chiang Mai.
Day Five:
Tour the city of Chiang Mai and then climb Doi Suthep to see
the famous Buddhist temple at its top. Catch an early afternoon
plane back to Bangkok. |
| Northeastern
Region |
Golf
in the Northeast is centered around the Khao Yai area in
Nakhon Ratchasima, gateway to the region, about three hours'
drive from Bangkok.
Khao Yai, the largest protected area in the country, enjoys
the status of a National Park. The area is at a pretty high
altitude, so the weather is pleasant all year round, with
temperature averaging 7-8 degrees Celsius lower than in
Bangkok.
It is possible to drive to Khao Yai, enjoy a round of golf
and then return to Bangkok within the day, but there are
first-rate accommodations in the area if you choose to stay
for a few days. And if you do, there's much to see and do.
The Northeast is the seat of ancient civilizations, with
Khmer temples and historic ruins believed to be older than
Angkor Wat. Northeasterners are also skilled craftsmen,
their most famous products being fine silk and pottery.
At least a full day is needed to explore the major historical
landmarks and the villages. |
| Golf
Tour Suggestions |
Three-Day
Itinerary
Day One:
Depart Bangkok in the morning for the Thai Country Club
course, located an hour out of the city on the main Bangkok-Pattaya
Highway. After golf, transfer by air-conditioned coach to
the beach resort of Pattaya. In the evening visit the spectacular
Alcazar Cabaret.
Day Two:
After an early breakfast, go on a 30-minute drive to Laem
Chabang course, one of the region's most attractive. After
a late lunch, spend the afternoon at Mini Siam, where some
of Thailand's most famous historical buildings and structures
have been created in miniature. Alternatively, visit Ripley's
Believe It or Not! in Central Pattaya. Enjoy a seafood meal
on Pattaya's beachfront in the evening.
Day Three:
A day at leisure at the beach, beside the pool, shopping
or exploring local attractions. Alternatively, play a round
at a nearby course, such as Siam Country Club, some 20 minutes
from Pattaya. Return in the evening to Bangkok.
One-Week Itinerary
Day One:
After an early morning breakfast, transfer by air-conditioned
coach to the compact but spectacular course at Bangphra
Golf International, an hour's drive away along the main
Bangkok-Pattaya Highway. Afterwards, travel on to Pattaya.
After an evening meal at a seafood restaurant, enjoy a cabaret
show.
Day Two:
After an early breakfast, a quick 20-minute drive to the
Siam Country Club, one of Pattaya's oldest and most popular.
Late afternoon transfer to Nongnooch village, some 20 minutes'
drive away, to see a potted cultural history of Thailand
plus a mini zoo and local handicrafts. Dinner in Pattaya.
Day Three:
A day at leisure. Enjoy Pattaya's numerous sporting activities,
or shop for local products.
Day Four:
Short transfer to Eastern Star Golf Course, set beside the
sea at nearby Rayong. Sample local cuisine at dinner before
returning to Pattaya.
Day Five:
Another day at leisure. Visit the offshore islands and enjoy
a beach lunch followed by an afternoon of scuba diving.
Alternatively, enjoy a round of golf at one of the courses
located in and around Pattaya
Day Six:
Today's golf is at Plu Ta Luang Golf at nearby Sattahip,
owned and run by the Royal Thai Navy. Return to Pattaya
for dinner.
Day Seven:
Return to Bangkok stopping en route at the Bangpakong Riverside
Country Club, a relatively new course with lots of character.
Afterwards drive on to Bangkok, just an hour away. |
| Southern
Region |
The major
resort towns on the Southern Peninsula, known for their
pristine beaches and first-class facilities, are also home
to some of the best golf anywhere.
The island of Phuket
off the western coast alone boasts three of the country's
best courses. Neighboring Phangnga, also on the coast of
the Andaman, has one of only a handful links-type facilities
in the country. These courses were carved out of tin mines
and coconut plantations and set against spectacular backdrops
of glittering sea, mountains and wooded hills.
There is, of course, much to do besides golf. The islands
of the Andaman are world-famous diving sites. All kinds
of water sports are also available. Non-athletic pursuits
available in Phuket include sightseeing around the old quarters,
with its distinct Sino-Portuguese architecture and its multicultural
blend of Malay, Chinese and Thai. Accommodations run the
whole gamut, from beach bungalows to exclusive properties
rated above five-star. |
| Golf
Tour Suggestions |
Phuket's
year-round warm weather makes it an ideal venue for all
kinds of outdoor activities, ranging from water sports such
as sailing and scuba diving to tennis, beach volleyball
and golf.
Of the three first-class courses on the island, perhaps
the most famous is the Blue Canyon, host to the Johnnie
Walker Classic in 1994 and again in 1998. Additional rounds
can be played at the Phuket Country Club, the island's first.
Thai Muang Beach, meanwhile, is one of the prettiest in
the country, with views of Phuket's azure blue ocean, mountains
and forested hills. |
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