Popular hotel booking site Hotels.com has introduced the Visualizer. Where a few pictures and some text would have been the old way to research a hotel, golf course or vacation spot, Visualizer is a Travel 2.0 concept. Provide some information about preferences, travel companinions (kids, adults, number, etc), activities, etc., and visual collage is presented.
Pretty neat, but does it replace the often boring methods of online vacation research? You decide. Take a look.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Specialists in British Isles Golf Travel
As much as I write about golf, here and elsewhere, I always enjoy discovering something new about the game.
Recently, I came across a travel agency specializing in golf travel to the British Isles (Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, England and Wales). In business as Pioneer Golf for over a decade, and with decades more experience beyond that, they are set apart from other golf travel agencies by their in-depth knowledge of their chosen destination specialization.
Pioneer Golf is located in Austin, Texas, but their roots begin in Scotland. Founder and President, Peter Hazelton, was born in Scotland, as was his son, Mark, who is the company's vice president. Few other travel agencies have as much first-hand experience with the destinations to which they send their customers.
Pioneer specializes in the British Isles, but they are also experienced in catering to groups of four to twenty people or more. Their website assists golfers by providing maps of the Isles and a comprehensive listing of courses. A simple mouseover will reveal each course's location and a click will display a course description. With the features offered on the website, you can have your itenerary planned before you even speak with them. That way, Pioneer can concentrate on the things that will make your trip special.
Right now, golfers can book guaranteed tee-times at the Old Course, Muirfield and other popular and historic courses. Also, a golf trip to Scotland in 2009 is about 15% less expensive than in 2008. A strengthening dollar is also making a golf pilgrimage more affordable than at any time in recent years.
Recently, I came across a travel agency specializing in golf travel to the British Isles (Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, England and Wales). In business as Pioneer Golf for over a decade, and with decades more experience beyond that, they are set apart from other golf travel agencies by their in-depth knowledge of their chosen destination specialization.
Pioneer Golf is located in Austin, Texas, but their roots begin in Scotland. Founder and President, Peter Hazelton, was born in Scotland, as was his son, Mark, who is the company's vice president. Few other travel agencies have as much first-hand experience with the destinations to which they send their customers.
Pioneer specializes in the British Isles, but they are also experienced in catering to groups of four to twenty people or more. Their website assists golfers by providing maps of the Isles and a comprehensive listing of courses. A simple mouseover will reveal each course's location and a click will display a course description. With the features offered on the website, you can have your itenerary planned before you even speak with them. That way, Pioneer can concentrate on the things that will make your trip special.
Right now, golfers can book guaranteed tee-times at the Old Course, Muirfield and other popular and historic courses. Also, a golf trip to Scotland in 2009 is about 15% less expensive than in 2008. A strengthening dollar is also making a golf pilgrimage more affordable than at any time in recent years.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Poor Economy Makes Great Airfare Deals Imperative
As yet, we haven't seen significant changes due to our economic slowdown, but it's only a matter of time. According to some analysts, a downturn of epic proportions could be on the horizon. If you're still planning to travel, for golf or otherwise, it's only prudent to seek out the best deals. That few-hundred dollars saved may come in handy down the road.
Airfare is going through the roof, but there are great deals to be had. Websites like Priceline.com, Orbitz, and Travelocity, as well as e-books and programs in which the authors have done meticulous research into little-known ways of finding great deals.
AAA is always a great resource, and if you find the right agent, one that understands how we all need the best deal possible, he or she will make your vacation planning a little easier.
Sometimes, when demand for air travel drops, so will airfare. But, with fuel costs, a poor business climate, and dropping share prices, the price of a ticket won't drop.
Airfare is going through the roof, but there are great deals to be had. Websites like Priceline.com, Orbitz, and Travelocity, as well as e-books and programs in which the authors have done meticulous research into little-known ways of finding great deals.
AAA is always a great resource, and if you find the right agent, one that understands how we all need the best deal possible, he or she will make your vacation planning a little easier.
Sometimes, when demand for air travel drops, so will airfare. But, with fuel costs, a poor business climate, and dropping share prices, the price of a ticket won't drop.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Walt Disney World Savings, Not Just for the Kids!
After being home for only three days after a trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, I can honestly say that it isn't simple for the kids. Aside from a magical week at the Magic Kingdom and multiple trips through the Pirates of the Carribean and Haunted Mansion, the golf at Disney World is fabulous.
One daunting problem with a Disney trip for most families is the cost. Disney obviously knows people are going to come and they charge a premium for everything.
That's why a new program I've discovered is fabulous and can be a real moneysaver for travelers. It is written by a former Walt Disney World Cast Member(employee), Beth Haworth, and it may make your dream trip to Disney World a reality.
The Ultimate Disney World Savings Guide 2008 is full of legitimate ways families can save on their trip. From Disney World resorts, to airfare, to golf to park tickets, it can save you a bundle. The book is priced at $29.95, which is a good trade for potentially thousands in savings.
It's worth a close look. If you want to read more about it and see some certified testimonials, click here. I wish I had discovered this before our trip.
One daunting problem with a Disney trip for most families is the cost. Disney obviously knows people are going to come and they charge a premium for everything.
That's why a new program I've discovered is fabulous and can be a real moneysaver for travelers. It is written by a former Walt Disney World Cast Member(employee), Beth Haworth, and it may make your dream trip to Disney World a reality.
The Ultimate Disney World Savings Guide 2008 is full of legitimate ways families can save on their trip. From Disney World resorts, to airfare, to golf to park tickets, it can save you a bundle. The book is priced at $29.95, which is a good trade for potentially thousands in savings.
It's worth a close look. If you want to read more about it and see some certified testimonials, click here. I wish I had discovered this before our trip.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Cell Phones on Out-of-Country Golf Trip
Just a quick reminder, if you're planning to take an out-of-country golf trip.
Before you go, make sure to check with your cellular phone service provider regarding overseas coverage and service. It will be a big shock, whether you're traveling to Jamaica or Jakarta, or anywhere in between, if you don't have cell service.
If it turns out that you don't, see if you can add the service, if only for a short while. The cost may be more than you'd like, but international tolls from foreign land lines are still expensive. It may even be worthwhile to check into purchasing a phone once you get to your destination. Look into it before you leave.
Take this precaution and the golf may be even sweeter than you imagined.
Before you go, make sure to check with your cellular phone service provider regarding overseas coverage and service. It will be a big shock, whether you're traveling to Jamaica or Jakarta, or anywhere in between, if you don't have cell service.
If it turns out that you don't, see if you can add the service, if only for a short while. The cost may be more than you'd like, but international tolls from foreign land lines are still expensive. It may even be worthwhile to check into purchasing a phone once you get to your destination. Look into it before you leave.
Take this precaution and the golf may be even sweeter than you imagined.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Tips on Family Travel to Hilton Head
We're in the midst of our annual (semi-annual this year) family trip to Hilton Head, South Carolina. Here are some tips and ideas for other families doing the same thing.
1. If space is limited in the van/car/suv, leave the clubs at home. There are golf shops on Hilton Head and the nearby mainland that have good rental clubs. It'll cost you $40 or so, but it's worth the money.
2. Schedule a golf lesson for the kids. The pros at the Robert Trent Jones course in Hilton Head's Palmetto Dunes area are great with the kids and adults.
3. Stay near the beach. No need to expand on that one. Who wants to lug the cooler, chairs, toys, towels, kids, etc. a long way?
4. Plan your trip ahead of time. If you're traveling a long distance, plan your route and where you'll be stopping for the night. This year's experience was great. We stopped in Columbia, South Carolina(coming from Kentucky it was about a 7 hour drive). We stayed at the two-year-old Hilton Garden Inn; $109 per night with AAA discount, free cookies at the front desk, extremely courteous staff, and a fabulous and affordable full breakfast. There were tons of restaurants nearby and some within walking distance.
5. Book your golf tee times early. Although the crowds seem to be down this year, gas prices being what they are, there are still lots of golfers. Book early.
6. If you have young children, eat dinner early. Again, although the crowds are down, a two-hour wait for dinner is likely. That can kill the evening with little ones in tow. Get to your restaurants no later than 5:00pm and the wait will be minimal. Get there at 5:30pm and your out of luck.
7. Try the crab cakes at the Wreck of the Salty Dog.
Hilton Head is, in my opinion, the best place in the world to combine a family vacation and golf.
1. If space is limited in the van/car/suv, leave the clubs at home. There are golf shops on Hilton Head and the nearby mainland that have good rental clubs. It'll cost you $40 or so, but it's worth the money.
2. Schedule a golf lesson for the kids. The pros at the Robert Trent Jones course in Hilton Head's Palmetto Dunes area are great with the kids and adults.
3. Stay near the beach. No need to expand on that one. Who wants to lug the cooler, chairs, toys, towels, kids, etc. a long way?
4. Plan your trip ahead of time. If you're traveling a long distance, plan your route and where you'll be stopping for the night. This year's experience was great. We stopped in Columbia, South Carolina(coming from Kentucky it was about a 7 hour drive). We stayed at the two-year-old Hilton Garden Inn; $109 per night with AAA discount, free cookies at the front desk, extremely courteous staff, and a fabulous and affordable full breakfast. There were tons of restaurants nearby and some within walking distance.
5. Book your golf tee times early. Although the crowds seem to be down this year, gas prices being what they are, there are still lots of golfers. Book early.
6. If you have young children, eat dinner early. Again, although the crowds are down, a two-hour wait for dinner is likely. That can kill the evening with little ones in tow. Get to your restaurants no later than 5:00pm and the wait will be minimal. Get there at 5:30pm and your out of luck.
7. Try the crab cakes at the Wreck of the Salty Dog.
Hilton Head is, in my opinion, the best place in the world to combine a family vacation and golf.
Friday, March 21, 2008
OGIO's Mammoth, a Great Golf Travel Bag
Golf travelers, you've never seen a golf travel bag like this one from OGIO.
The Mammoth has lots of storage, extra padding around the clubheads, and even a protected hat compartment. The club area has enough room for your golf bag, cinch-down straps for the bag and the compartment zips completely open for supremely easy access. The bag will stand on it's own, has wheels for tilted rolling, as well as for rolling when in the standing position.
You simply need to see it to believe it. Fantastic for traveling. You can almost pack everything you need into the bag and go without a suitcase on a short trip. I can't say enough about it!
The Mammoth has lots of storage, extra padding around the clubheads, and even a protected hat compartment. The club area has enough room for your golf bag, cinch-down straps for the bag and the compartment zips completely open for supremely easy access. The bag will stand on it's own, has wheels for tilted rolling, as well as for rolling when in the standing position.
You simply need to see it to believe it. Fantastic for traveling. You can almost pack everything you need into the bag and go without a suitcase on a short trip. I can't say enough about it!
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