On Location: Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

You don't find many golf resorts where you can walk out the front door of the hotel to find all sorts of restaurants, shops and museums.

The Vinoy Renaissance Resort and Golf Club is situated in a fantastic waterfront location in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida and across the street from a marina. On my visit, I absolutely loved parking my car and never driving it again during my stay.  When I wasn't enjoying  the resort, I simply walked a block or so out the front door of the hotel to Beach Drive and, voila, there were numerous dining and entertainment possibilities. 

Opened in 1925, the massive salmon-colored, Mediterranean Revival style hotel overlooking Tampa Bay is one Florida's historical treasures. With its original glazed, quarry tile floor, stenciled cypress beams and reproductions of 1920s chandeliers, it immerses visitors in a luxurious "Old Florida" ambiance accented with today's high-tech necessities.

Better still, the lobby was refurbished a couple of years ago and it has an elegant atmosphere with modern art pieces, a library with a fireplace, lobby bar, cafe and social gathering areas.

GOLF

The 6,626 yard, par 71 Vinoy Golf Course weaves through a beautiful, tree-laden residential neighborhood on Snell Isle, a five minute drive from the hotel (complimentary transportation is provided). 

Originally designed by Donald Ross in the 1920s, the course was redesigned and modernized by Lakeland, Florida architect Ron Garl. The meticulously landscaped homes are hardly noticeable as the fairways are framed by mature tree growth and shrubs. Highlights include nine lakes, two double greens and spectacular landscaping and vegetation, including Live Oaks, Pines and more than a dozen varieties of palms from around the world. A certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, the course is a haven for a variety of wildlife.

Make no mistake, this is not a course that will have low-handicappers shaking in their golf shoes. However, it's a superb resort course that is thoroughly playable and enjoyable for a wide variety of skill levels.

The toughest holes are seven, eight and nine, then sixteen, seventeen and eighteen, so golfers have the opportunity to score well early on the front and back nines. Garl designed the course so golfers can build confidence early, since they'll need it later.

My favorite hole is the number nine, a 465-yard, par 4. The number one handicap holes, it has two lakes left and five bunkers lining the right side of the fairway. It takes a gutsy approach shot to a 9,000 square foot green that slopes hard toward the lakes. If you birdie this hole, consider yourself very lucky and celebrate with a cool libation at the clubhouse.

The clubhouse is among the most unique I've ever visited. It is an ornate collection of Spanish and Moorish influences with features like minarets, arches and domes.

The staff at Vinoy Golf Course is exceptional.  While they have a strong membership program, they don't treat resort guests as intruders. In fact, resort players are rewarded with the same high level of service every member receives.

For a video view of the Vinoy Golf Club, click here to Golf Travel Guru T.V.
 

ACCOMMODATIONS/AMENITIES

The seven-floor hotel has 347 guest rooms and 14 suites. The rooms are spacious with luxury, Euro-style bedding with down comforters, custom duvets and rich linens, flat-panel televisions, work desk and in-room coffee service.

Major amenities and offerings:

--Large resort swimming pool with waterfall
--On-site marina
--Fitness center
--Day spa and salon
--Valet and self-parking
--Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout lobby area
--Tennis complex
--Multiple dining and lounging choices
--Nearby walking trail
--Coffee shop featuring Illy Coffee
--Large front veranda with comfortable couches and rocking chairs
--Full-service business center
--55,000 square feet of meeting space
--Sailing opportunities

10 Little Things I Like:

1. The view from my room which included the skyline of downtown St. Petersburg and the Vinoy Marina.

2. The expansive front porch were I sat in a rocking chair each morning and checked my emails and social media.

3. The friendly staff at the Golf Club who made you feel extremely welcome as a resort guest while taking care of their members.

4. Walking the North Bay Trail, a walking trail along the bay located across the street from the hotel, which affords great opportunities for sunrise and sunset watching.

5. The "Jumpin' Jameson" (Jameson whiskey and ginger ale on the rocks) I had at the lobby bar.

6. The history wall at the far end of the lobby that highlights the hotel's amazing past through vintage photographs.

7. Sitting under the waterfall at the swimming pool.

8. The frosty glass of Stella Artois I enjoyed one afternoon at at Alfrescos restaurant overlooking the swimming pool.

9.The amazing Scallops and Basil Linguini I had at Vinoy's Marchand's Bar & Grill restaurant one evening.

10. The very helpful Navigator (concierge) that assisted me finding out great things to do in downtown St. Petersburg.


DINING

There are six dining and lounge options at Vinoy Renaissance, including:

Alfresco--Casual restaurant where you can dine inside or on a terrace overlooking the pool. There's a Happy Hour daily from 5 to 7 p.m. and the lunch menu has a great selection of wraps, sandwiches, burgers and salads.

Veranda Cafe--Located in the lobby, this convenient cafe has Italian coffee by illy as well as salads, sandwiches, snacks and baked goods.

Marchand's Bar & Grill--This stunning 1920s gourmet room is Vinoy's signature restaurant. It has leaded arched windows that overlook the marina and a menu dotted with specialties like grilled scallops, Florida Lobster and watermelon and arugula salad.

Fred's Steakhouse--Only open for dinner and cocktails on Friday and Saturday evenings, this classic steakhouse has the feel of a plush private club with leather seats and polished hardwood appointments.

Clubhouse Restaurant at the Vinoy Golf Club--Excellent golf course views enhance this restaurant experience at lunch and dinner. Breakfast is served on Saturdays and Sundays.

Promenade Lobby Bar-After a round, this is a great place enjoy a celebratory cocktail or beer. You can sit indoors surrounded by fine art and contemporary furniture or outdoors in comfortable chairs and couches with a fire pit.

THINGS TO DO

There's lots to do in downtown St. Petersburg. Across the street from the hotel is Beach Drive, which is brimming with hip restaurants, pubs and specialty shops.  Beach Drive has a distinct Euro vibe with lots of outdoor dining possibilities and Happy Hours.

Other entertainment options include:

--Attending a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game at Tropicana Field
--Visiting the Salvador Dali Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, Chihuly Collection Museum and Florida Holocaust Museum
--Enjoy nearby award winning beaches at Fort De Soto Park and Caladesi State Park
--Walk or run the North Bay Trail starting near the hotel entrance
--Attend a Tampa Bay Rowdies soccer game at Al Lang Stadium


HOW TO GET THERE

The resort is located in downtown St. Petersburg (501 5th Avenue NE, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701) about 15 minutes from St. Pete Beach and 25 minutes from Tampa International Airport. 

GET THE SCOOP

 For information or reservations, call 727-894-1000 or go to the resort's website

5 Top Father's Day Golf Travel Gifts

Father's Day is coming soon (Sunday June 15th--the same day as the final round of the U.S. Open Championship at Pinehurst Resort) and you can enhance the special day for pops by getting him a great gift this year.

After all, he's most likely the guy who introduced you to golf and golf travel.

The Guru has scoured the websites and catalogues to find 5 fantastic gift possibilities for the golf traveling dadster:

Bluff Works Travel Pants

So, you love to travel, but you just don't like rummaging through the closet in your hotel for an iron. Have I got a great travel pant for you. Bluff Works are the ultimate, wrinkle-free, low maintenance pant that you can wear just about anywhere and look good. Whether its the golf course, a bike ride or a business meeting, these versatile, light-weight pants are super comfortable and fashionable. Machine washable and quick-drying, Bluffs are made of a unique, breathable polyester fabric. When you're on the road, you can wear them multiple times without washing. They're available in light khaki, charcoal, velvet brown and classic gray colors. My favorite feature is the zipped front internal security pocket large enough to hold your passport. $93

Bushnell Neo XS Golf GPS Rangefinder Watch

Pre-loaded with 33,000 courses in more than 30 countries around the word, the Bushnell Neo XS Golf GPS Rangefinder Watch allows you to play three rounds between charges. Top features are hazard/layup distances (up to 4 a hole), a shot distance calculator and no membership or download fee. $199.99







Game Golf Digital Tracking System

If you really want to know where your game stands, this unique technological wonder will provide a wealth of stats to let you know if you're a pretender or contender. Just attach the Game Golf Digital Tracking System to your waist and it'll track your scores, stats and trends. It'll give you accurate information on club distance, fairways hit, greens in regulation, putts per hole and a lot more. Better still, it's compatible with iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. $249 


Golf Travel Flask

 For those who desire some swing juice to calm the nerves or a liquid warm up on a frosty day, the 8 oz. Golf Travel Flask will help enhance any round of golf. Top features include an oil tanned leather case, two snap-off brass ball markers, four tee holders and a brass divot repair tool. Single malt scotch is NOT included--you'll have to furnish your own favorite swing juice. $38.59








Ben Hogan's Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf

I don't care how many baskets of balls you hit, if you don't have the correct fundamentals you're not going to get much better. My favorite golf swing book is a simple 127-page paperback book written by Ben Hogan with Herbert Warren Wind. If your dad only reads one book on the golf swing, make it this timeless classic. Packed with drawings and logical, easy-to-read instruction, the book starts with descriptions on the grip followed by stance and posture, the first part of the swing, the second part of the swing and a summary and review. Best of all, Ben Hogan's Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf  will cost you less than a large bucket of balls. $7.91

10 Most Annoying Golf Travelers on International Trips

I've been lucky to have taken numerous golf excursions around the world and I'm a fairly easy going guy. I do my best, however, to avoid fellow travelers who are world-class whiners and complainers.

Unfortunately, there always seems to be one or two grumps who just can't seem to fully appreciate different cultures, customs, cuisine and golf courses.

Oh no... these champion complainers must voice their vitriolic opinions on just about everything.

Here is my list of the top 10 most annoying golf travelers on international trips:


1. Downgrades authentic links courses in Scotland and Ireland compared to U.S. courses--Most of the courses in the British Isles are naturally beautiful, stay true to the local terrain and don't possess the well-manicured look of U.S. courses. There's always one wise guy that starts referring to these layouts as goat ranches, donkey pastures or some other derogatory term. Enough already, Mr. golf course expert, it's like comparing apples and oranges. Enjoy the links golf experience while you're there and keep your mean, cynical comments to yourself.

2. Complains about dogs and hikers on Scottish courses--Get over it, dogs and hikers are welcome on most golf courses in Scotland. You'll see people walking their dogs and some golfers accompanied by the family pooch and hikers, who enjoy soaking up the scenery at a beautiful golf course. If it really bothers you to see Fido roaming the paths alongside the fairways, you either don't appreciate Man's Best Friend or you don't know a darn thing about golf in Scotland.

3. Refuses to follow local customs and clubhouse rules--This is the insensitive lout  constantly wearing his hat and athletic shoes around the clubhouse even though there are signs everywhere detailing appropriate clubhouse behavior. Typically, the group leader informs everyone of proper behavior and dress before entering the clubhouse, but there's always one person who just can't seem to adapt and follow rules.

4. Complains because golf carts aren't available--"What the *#@%, do we really have to walk these courses, I can't play without a cart," says Mr. Lard Ass, who hasn't walked on a golf course like, well, ever. In many parts of the world, golf carts are a luxury not a necessity and generally reserved for disabled golfers. Golf courses in the British Isles are best enjoyed by walking. Some major resorts have golf carts, but, for the most part, walking is an enjoyable part of the golf experience at most courses.

5. Overpacks with the largest luggage in the group and requires assistance in carrying--We all want wardrobe choices on a golf trip, but this person packs for an 8-day golf trip like they're going around the world in 80 days. Stacks of bricks and gold bars don't weigh as much as this person's suitcase. You practically need a forklift to move this overstuffed bag from the bus to the lobby of the hotel. To be sure, the same person always has a jammed golf bag that's difficult to lug around as well.

6. Grouses because the breakfasts are different from those in the U.S.--The full Scottish breakfast arrives and the sight of a half tomato, baked beans and Black Pudding sets this golfer off.  He quickly tells everybody at the table that he cannot begin his day this way during the week long trip. The insufferable windbag then delivers a speech about all the great American breakfasts at his favorite places back in the States like Denny's, IHOP and Perkins.

7. Constantly boozes on planes, trains, automobiles and vans--Hey, everyone who imbibes enjoys a smooth single malt or ale, especially on a visit to Scotland and Ireland. This person, however, can't limit drinking to pubs, restaurants and clubhouses. Oh no, this boozer is the first to start pounding them down on the plane and brings his own supply of plastic cups and a hidden leg flask so he can knock down a shot or two on the van or rental car on the way to the golf course.

8. Brags incessantly about all the Top 100 courses he or she has played--This is the golfer whose entire wardrobe (hats, visors, sweaters and shirts) consists of logo merchandise from the most celebrated courses in the world. Beware, too, if this boorish individual has already played one of the courses on your itinerary. He will assume the position of self-appointed expert and furnish more advice than you'll ever want or need.

9. Obsessively uses a smart phone to post on social media--Can you just put away the freakin' phone for a little while? We know you're important and successful and people can't live without your witty social media repartee, but, puhleeeeeeese, give us a break and wait till you get back to the hotel before you dive into your email, posting and tweeting world.

10. Takes a photo of seemingly everything--Mr. Photographer absolutely must take a picture of every golf hole on the trip and just about everything else so he can entertain his family into boredom when he returns stateside.  I love foursome and group pictures as much as the next person, but please tone it down with all the pictures, will ya.

On Location: Marco Island Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa

If you love playing golf, followed by luxuriating at a spa, floating in a swimming pool or sipping a cool libation while watching a stunning sunset, this resort on Marco Island in southwest Florida was designed specifically for you.

Set on a 3 1/2 miles stretch of blindingly white sands and turquoise waters, the Marco Island Marriott is a superb way to enjoy a beach, golf and spa getaway.

The resort lifestyle at Marco Island Marriott encompasses two superb championship golf courses, eight dining and lounge options, two swimming pools, a 24,000 square foot spa, tennis courts and an expansive beach with watersports galore.

On my visit, I had one of my best sunset viewing experiences ever, witnessed a couple of alligators sunning themselves at the Hammock Bay golf course and relaxed on my balcony with a glass of red wine celebrating the Gulf of Mexico panorama in front of me. If you want the Marco Island la dolce vita (Italian for the sweet life), this resort provides it with great style and a high service level. 
 
GOLF

Marco Island Marriott's golf menu features two well-designed, exceptionally maintained courses that provide a private club style experience for resort guests. Both of the courses are located a few miles from the main resort complex, but they're well worth the short drive or shuttle. Hammock Bay is located 5.8 miles from the resort and The Rookery is 7.3 miles away. Regular shuttle service is provided to both courses.

Hammock Bay Golf & Country Club--Designed by PGA Tour player Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy, this 6,985-yard, par 72 layout (6,003 yards from the member tees) is a very player friendly experience with wide landing areas on most holes and eight different tee placements. If you're a mid-handicapper or only play a few times a year, play this course if you can only play one of the two at the resort. Hammock Bay is scenic with mild undulations and fairways framed by palms and Live Oak trees. Recognized as a "Gold Certified Signature Sanctuary Course" by Audubon International, you'll see wonderfully preserved natural areas, lots of birds and, perhaps, an alligator sunning himself by a lake shoreline.

The Rookery--A wonderland of carpet-like fairways, palm and pine forests, lagoons and cypress wetlands, this Robert J. Cupp Jr. designed 7,180 yard, par 72 layout (6,202 yards from the members tee) is testy and drop dead gorgeous. A certified Audubon Sanctuary, The Rookery is beautifully maintained. Fifteen holes incorporate water in some form and a thoughtful strategy is imperative on every hole to score well. If you're a low-handicapper, aspiring professional or mid-handicapper who wants to ramp up the challenge, The Rookery will definitely determine if you're a contender or pretender.

All the golf carts at both locations are equipped with the Caddy Tronic GPS Systems, which feature a complete touch screen with views of the entire hole and a green view, a detailed fly over of each hole and interactive scorecard.

ACCOMMODATIONS/AMENITIES

More than 95% of the 727 guestrooms have views of the Gulf of Mexico. A typical guestroom measures 402 square feet and there are also a variety of suites (62). Marco Island Marriott has a 4 Diamond rating by AAA and a Green Lodging Designation certificate in the Florida Green Lodging Program.

All rooms feature private balconies and terraces. Amenities include luxury bedding, high speed internet access, remote control color flat screen TV with cable service and in room pay movies, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, coffee maker, refrigerator, safe and mini-bar.

Major amenities and offerings:

--Two championship golf courses
--4-court tennis complex (Red Har-Tru Hydrogrid Clay Courts)
--White sand beach steps away from the swimming pool
--Beach chair/umbrella rentals and Beach Chickee Huts
--2 swimming pools and whirlpool/cabanas
--Children's wading pool and playground
--On-site boutique shopping
--Spa with 24 treatment rooms
--Fitness Center
--Rentals for sailboats, catamarans, aquabikes and kayaks
--Paddleboard rentals
--Parasailing
--Beach volleyball and basketball 
--Bicycle rental and tours
--Waverunner tours of the Everglades 
--Offshore and back country fishing tours
--Sailing and shelling tour
--Dolphin watch tour
--Beach BBQ on weekends 
--Sunset entertainment
--60,000 square feet of business event and meeting space
--Hertz car rental counter on-site 
--Valet parking
--Self parking
--In-room dining

10 Little Things I Like

1. The amazing sunsets you can enjoy from Quinn's on the Beach, 400 Pazzi's or the balcony of your room; and the fire dancer performance on the beach.

2. The large palm trees planted in the swimming pool.

3. Cafe San Marco, which serves illy coffee, the Italian coffee that's one of my favorites.

4. The awesome beach and pool panoramas from the balcony of my room.

5. The oh-so-crispy and delicious coconut shrimp at Quinn's on the Beach.

6. The Hummus Platter I enjoyed at 400 Pazzi's overlooking the beach.

7. The outstanding sushi bar at Korals, a great bar adjacent to the lobby.

8. The chilled mango scented towels that are passed out unannounced at the swimming pool in the middle of the day.

9. The walkable beach where you can collect all sorts of sea shells.

10. The resort's two golf courses, which are beautiful, well designed and provide a private club experience without pretentiousness.

DINING

Cafe San Marco--Serves illy coffee. Great place to grab your morning espresso or coffee before you head out to the course.

Quinn's on the Beach--Great coconut shrimp, burgers and island fare at this casual dining restaurant where the sunsets are phenomenal accompanied by live nightly entertainment.

Korals--A great bar adjacent to the main lobby. It has an excellent sushi bar, cocktails and appetizers.

Kurrents--The resort's gourmet room features fresh seafood, prime steaks and live nightly entertainment.

Tropiks--A family-oriented restaurant that serves a breakfast buffet daily.

400 Pazzi's--Features al fresco dining overlooking the beach and swimming pool with a Mediterranean inspired menu with pasta, brick oven pizzas, flatbreads, salads and sandwiches. It's convenient if you're spending the day at the pool or beach because you quickly order at the counter and a server delivers your selections to your table.

Tiki Bar & Grill--A pool-side bar with light fare and full bar.

The Rookery Grill--An upscale restaurant located at The Rookery Golf Club.

Hammock Bay Restaurant--It serves breakfast, lunch and dinner (Friday and Saturday only).   

HOW TO GET THERE

Marco Island is situated 18 miles south of downtown Naples, Florida. Southwest Florida International Airport is located 45 miles from Marco Island Marriott Resort. Major airlines serving the airport, include Air Canada, American/American Eagle, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, United, Spirit and US Airways. 

By automobile, heading south on Interstate-75, take exit 101 onto County Highway-951/Collier Boulevard, which leads to the resort (about 15 minutes). The address is 400 South Collier Boulevard, Marco Island, FL 34145

GET THE SCOOP 

To find out more about the resort, click to Marco Island Marriott Resort, Golf, Club & Spa. For reservations, call 1-800-GET-HERE. For golf packages, click to Golfpac Travel.

5 Reasons Why The Masters is Bigger Than Tiger Woods

When Tiger announced his bad back would keep him out of the 2014 Masters, you would of thought some media members wanted to cancel the whole thing and just tee it up next year.

Not so fast, my friends. Like most fans, I can't celebrate my spring without a healthy dose of azaleas, Magnolia Lane and the dulcet tones of Jim Nantz waxing poetically about this golf nirvana.

Let's face it, Tiger is a huge draw, but this is the Masters. It's the most important golf tournament on the planet and even Tiger has to take a backseat to this celebration of the game in the Georgia pines.

Here are 5 reasons why the 2014 Masters is bigger than Tiger:

1. The Masters is Never Boring
Whether it's Bubba hitting an impossible hook shot off pine straw in a playoff in 2012 or Phil pulling off some straw magic through the pines on the 13th hole in 2010, the Masters inspires golfers and brings out their best. Oh, Tiger's hit some great shots (the unbelievable chip shot at the 16th in 2005), but just about everybody in the field gets the adrenaline flowing so you never know what miraculous feat you're going to witness. For instance, Louis Oosthuizen's double eagle shot from 260 yards out on hole number two in 2012 is one of my favorites.

2. The Masters Celebrates Golf History and Family
The Masters is timeless and absolutely none of the traditions change without Tiger's presence. They were there before Tiger played his first Masters in 1995 and they'll be there long after he stops playing the PGA Tour. Treasured traditions like the ceremonial honorary starters, the family-oriented par three tournament with the players' small children wearing mini-size caddie outfits and the Champions Dinner on Tuesday of Masters Week are cherished by every golf fan.

3. Lefthanders, Not Tiger, Grab the Spotlight and Have An Advantage
The design of Augusta National favors southpaws, not Tiger. Woods doesn't bomb it off the tee like he used to and the design of some holes call for approach shots more receptive to lefthanders. In fact, in the past 11 years, five of the winners have been lefties-- Phil Mickelson is a three-time Masters champion (2004, 2006, 2010), Bubba Watson (2012) and Mike Weir (2003).

4. The 2014 Masters Has Other Great Story Lines
While Tiger winning the Masters with a creaky back would've have been the ultimate story, this year's Masters has no shortage of interesting story lines. Among the more intriguing are: Craig Stadler and son, Kevin Stadler, as the only father and son to play in the same Masters; Aussie Adam Scott tries to repeat and if he succeeds, he'll ascend to the No. 1 golfer in the world; 23 first-timers in the 2014 Masters; following the ever-confident Patrick Reed, a three-time PGA Tour winner this year, to see if he can capture a major; and watching Rory pursue the Green Jacket.

5. It's the Masters, Enough Said
No corporate signage. No goofballs yelling "in the hole" on the tee boxes at par fives. No rip-off concessions prices. No goofy trophies... The Masters is different and we like it that way. It's the most popular golf tournament in the world. Make no mistake, Tiger has added a lot to Masters lore, but the tournament doesn't need him. He needs the Masters every spring, just like the rest of us.

Everything You Need to Know About Playing Golf in Tampa, Florida

Almost forgotten in the mad rush to play more celebrated Florida destinations like Orlando, Naples and Ponte Vedra Beach is Tampa, the dynamic city by the bay on the state's west coast.

There are nearly 100 golf courses in Tampa and you can tee it up 365 days a year.

I recently wrote a series of articles on Tampa for The Golf Channel's GolfAdvisor site.

Check out my articles and discover everything you need to know about Tampa golf:

A Beginner's Guide to Golf in Tampa/St. Petersburg

Play Tampa Bay's Most Scenic Golf Courses

Tampa's Tournament Tested Golf Courses

Tampa's Best Golf Resorts

Tampa's Most Unique Golf Courses

Etiquette Tips by the TPC Network Pros

TPC Scottsdale Champions Course

I don't want to be a negative Ned, or some golf version of Mr. Manners, but golf course etiquette these days is showing some serious slippage.

From cell phones ringing in my backswing to unraked bunkers, untended divots and discarded cigar butts on tee boxes, let's just say things have gotten a bit interesting on the golf course.

Head golf professionals, no doubt, have seen it all. Thus, I've solicited the advice of the head golf pros of the TPC Network, which is comprised of 32 premier daily fee, resort and private golf properties designed specifically to host PGA TOUR events. Among their high-profile courses are TPC Sawgrass, TPC Harding Park, TPC Scottsdale and TPC San Antonio. 

“The old saying tells us it isn’t about winning or losing, but how you play the game. Being a gentleman or lady truly embodies the spirit of our sport, so these tips are meant to help be the best you can be on the links,” says Brian Riddle, head golf professional of TPC Sawgrass.

Here are 10 great etiquette tips:

1. “Play from the tee box where you'll have the best chance for success. Don't be shy or embarrassed.  Playing the ‘tips’ when your ability level isn't suited for them will be frustrating not only to you, but to those around you as well.”
– Rob Nader, TPC San Antonio

2. “There is no need to rush shots – efficient play consists of getting ready to hit every shot without wasting time. Take several clubs to your ball and hit a provisional ball if you feel you need to.”
– Brian Riddle, TPC Sawgrass

3. “Respect your playing partners; talking and playing music at an appropriate volume should be taken into consideration. Ask others in your group if music is welcome. Players should always be aware that it relaxes some and disturbs others. These distractions could not only delay your group but also the play of all other golfers behind you.”
– Michaelyn Bradford, TPC Southwind / Jim Calhoun, TPC Craig Ranch

4. “Silence your cell phone. Nothing is more of a nuisance to a golfer than a ringing phone while in mid-swing.  In some cases calls are unavoidable; if one needs to be answered – or made – do so away from the group.”
– Tom Smith, TPC Harding Park

5. “Allow staff to do their job, including carrying clubs, giving out information, etc. The great majority of people want to do their job well and they take pride in their work. Let them make your time on the course enjoyable.”
– Greg Wolf, TPC Scottsdale

6. “Always be aware of your pace and never be the slowest player in the group. The best way to remedy slow play is to play ‘ready golf’: be prepared to play your shot when it's your turn – whether you're on the tee, fairway or green.”
– Brian Long, TPC Louisiana

7. “Always take care of the course you're playing.  Repair your ball mark and at least one other on the green, replace divots (or fill divots with seed mix if supplied), and rake bunkers after every shot. Care of the course will make the round much more enjoyable for the golfers behind you.  Also, if you have decided to pick up or not play a hole, speed up play by taking it upon yourself to rake bunkers for others playing the hole.”
– Andy Stoterau, TPC Deere Run

8. “Presentation is key on the course. Take pride in your appearance. Arriving with a shirt un-tucked, hat turned backwards or attire meant for jogging is no way to dress on the golf course.  A golfer's attire or appearance leaves a lasting impression – make certain it's a positive one.”
– Chris Weinhold, TPC Twin Cities

9. “Observe the good habits of seasoned golfers. Those that play often will know when it's their turn to play a shot, where to stand when others are hitting, and how to take care of the course throughout the round.  Following their lead and learning from them will form good habits for the less experienced golfer.”
– Mike Messner, TPC Summerlin

10. “Always enter and exit bunkers at the lowest point, never climbing the face of a bunker. Although it’s very temping to jump in, every bunker is shaped in a manner specific to its course; if the sand is dis-positioned it could alter the lay of the course.”
–      David Corrado, TPC Boston

TPC Sawgrass THE PLAYERS COURSE

If you like attending PGA TOUR tournaments, I highly suggest you attend one at a TPC course, which are designed to enhance the experience for spectators.

The TPC hosts THE PLAYERS Championship at the PGA TOUR’s flagship property, TPC Sawgrass, (one of my favorite tournaments for spectators). Let's face it, we're not all getting into Augusta National to watch the Masters. This just might be the next best thing. Nothing quite like sitting on the hill left of the number 17 island hole and watching the pros sink or swim while you sip on a frosty brew.

TPC Scottsdale Champions Course

The Waste Management Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale (arguably the most high-energy event on Tour with its party-like atmosphere), the highest attended tournament on the PGA TOUR. During the current 2013-14 season, 18 PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and Web.com Tour tournaments will be held at TPC facilities so you've got lots of choices.

TPC Louisiana

For more information, visit www.TPC and follow TPC Network on Twitter @PlayTPC, Instagram @PlayTPC, and Facebook at www.facebook.com/tpcnetwork.

TPC San Antonio

5 DON'TS on International Golf Travel

Do you want to spend thousands of dollars and screw up your dream international golf vacation?

Uh, no, of course not.

Side-stepping some of the most common golf travel mistakes can help you avoid a nightmare.

I've traveled internationally numerous times and I've compiled a list of the some of the worst mistakes. These aren't bad decisions like selecting a shabby hotel (gee, it sure looked good in the brochure), a goat ranch golf course or a restaurant on a first name basis with the health department.

No, these are less obvious mistakes that might seem insignificant, but they can greatly impact the success of your trip.

Believe it or not, the Guru has made everyone of these mistakes, so I speak from experience. To be sure, though, if you make any of these bad choices once, I bet you'll never do it again.

1. Failure to print reservation details--I made this mistake on a trip a few years back and never again. The fact is, your phone, tablet or computer might not work with the local network upon your arrival. Yes, it's a hassle, but print the darn thing out and place it where you can retrieve it easily. Chances are, you won't need it, but, if you do, you'll be so happy you've got a hard copy.

2. Under-budgeting--Let's face it, nowadays everyone has their hand out.  Don't forget about caddie fees, gratuities, Internet fees, hotel service charges, ATM charges...the list goes on and on. Keep track of these fees on a trip and you'll be amazed at the total by the final day. You've also got to budget in ill-advised spending on golf logo gear you may never wear again and worthless souvenirs that looked a lot better on the store shelf than in your home.

3. Cheap luggage choice--I've gone the cheap route with the crappy zippers and tiny plastic wheels and luggage is one of the worst items to try and save a few bucks. Generally, what happens is you need a new piece of luggage before your big trip and you've got money flying out everywhere so you decide to skimp on a bag or golf club travel bag. DON'T.  Purchase lightweight luggage comprised of good, quality exterior material, sturdy zippers and inline skating quality wheels. For a golf clubs travel bag, I prefer Club Glove, but there are some other good ones like Bag Boy, Ogio and Sun Mountain.

4. Choosing bad travel partners--You absolutely need to have the same attitude and love toward the game of golf. If your travel partners want to play 27 to 36 holes a day and you want to go sightseeing and smell the roses along the way, you need to reconsider.  I prefer balance in a trip with golf and lots of time spent in pubs, restaurants and seeing some sights, while others could care less and just want to tee it up sunrise to sunset. Neither approach is necessarily wrong, but you'll have lots of disagreements if you don't fully discuss the itinerary and trip goals before you leave the U.S.

5. Too much activity, not enough down time--Hey, ya gotta get some sleep. Too many people try and play golf all day, party at the pub and sing karaoke all night and stagger to their 8 o'clock tee time. Playing 36 holes with a hangover and jet lag is not really all that enjoyable. Keep in mind, too, that you'll be walking a lot of golf courses outside the U.S., which is more strenuous than riding around in a cart. Pace yourself and build in time to just relax in your room or go to the spa to recharge so you can fully enjoy the great golf courses you've traveled thousands of miles to play and enjoy.

On Location: TPC Sawgrass/Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa

Do you want to know the status of your golf game?

Seriously, are you ready for a thorough test of your golf skills?

If so, I highly suggest you play THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

It's a green grass SAT exam without the number two pencils and timer clocks. The Stadium Course provides a four-hour test that will expose any and all deficiencies in your game. This Pete Dye masterpiece challenges and confounds everyone from pros who play here every year to the once-a-month hacker who boldly believes he can break 90 and par or birdie the famous No. 17 island hole. 

Unlike college entrance exams, this test is fun and memorable, even though you might return to the clubhouse after a round with some high numbers on your scorecard.

Enhancing the experience is one of the world's most amazing clubhouses and the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, a multi-amenity resort designed for golfers.

GOLF

THE PLAYERS Stadium Course 
Its narrow fairways with tiny target areas, immense waste bunkers, railroad tie barriers, grassy mounds and knolls and pool table-fast greens make it a supreme challenge.

Designed by Pete Dye and built in 1980, the 7,215-yard, par-72 layout is referred to as “The Stadium Course” because of its unique “built in” spectator bleachers. To accommodate spectators, many fairways are framed by high, banked slopes upon which crowds can sit. There are also bowl-shaped natural grass amphitheaters around many greens for the spectators.

An in-your-face challenge in which every shot requires patience, daring and skill, the Stadium Course has trouble with subtle and eerie regularity on almost every hole. From bunkers to lakes and undulating mounding, Dye strategically placed hazards that will gobble up errant shots faster than one of those tractor driven machines at a driving range. 

Undoubtedly, the most recognizable hole and one of the most publicized in the world, is the par-3, No. 17 island hole, which makes golfers hit 132 yards over a lagoon often into a stiff Atlantic Ocean breeze. It looks like a nice, easy pitching wedge or 9-iron shot. Forget that. 

Each year, more than 120,000 balls are hit in the water, an average of just less than three balls per players based on approximately 44,000 rounds played per year on the TPC Sawgrass course. The number is somewhat skewed because some players hit as many as a dozen balls into the water in an attempt to reach the green.

Even if you have a ball or two left to play the finishing hole (pictured below), it presents its own shake-in-your-golf-shoes view from the tee. A lake frames the entire left side from tee to green on the 462-yard par 4. Even if you keep your tee shot right, there’s not much space for a safe landing.

Dye's Valley Course
When you get done with Stadium Course, or it gets done with you, this 6,938-yard, par-72 layout is another legitmate Pete Dye golf test with winding fairways, large greens and lots of undulation.

Sawgrass Country Club
The Scuba guy that retrieves balls from the water on 17 at the Stadium Course probably does pretty well here as well. Water comes into play on 24 of the 27 holes at this Ed Seay design. 

Marsh Landing Country Club
Tall pines, intracoastal marshes and lagoons dominate the terrain at this layout, which is often described as "a nature preserve with golf holes."

Ponte Vedra Golf & Country Club
A par-70, Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay design with tight fairways and water on every hole.

TourAcademy TPC Sawgrass 
If you need a tune up or want to elevate your game, this 2,800 square-foot instructional facility with indoor hitting bays, private practice areas, chipping greens and bunkers is located adjacent to the TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse. 

CLUBHOUSE

Don't leave TPC Sawgrass without spending some time at the clubhouse, a spectacular 77,000 square-foot Mediterranean-style structure open to the public that looks like an Italian mansion air-dropped in from Tuscany. Dripping with the opulent appointments, it's an experience not to be missed.

I thoroughly enjoyed viewing the paintings on display in the lobby that depict famous happenings in TPC Sawgrass history.

A nice touch are the storyteller docents who conduct tours and weave stories about past tournaments and key moments in the history of the club.

There are two dining options:

Nineteen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. If the weather is good, dine on the outdoor veranda, which affords fantastic views of the presentation lawn, 9th and 18th holes. For dinner, I suggest the Pan Seared Red Snapper or Pesto Roasted Chicken Breast topped off with a signature dessert, the Double Chocolate Chip Brownie S'mores (pictured).

Traditions is a fine-dining room open to the public for lunch and exclusively to club members for dinner.


ACCOMMODATIONS/AMENITIES

The Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa has 510 guest rooms, including 21 suites. Earth tone fabrics, wood furnishings and wall art featuring beautiful color photographs of the golf settings highlight the room decor. In addition, there are 80 villa suites, each with two bedrooms, which are ideal for golfers and small groups up to eight guests.

In-room amenity highlights:

* Internet browser/Web TV
* Down/feather/foam pillows
* Wet bar
* Luxury bedding
* High-speed Internet Access

Villa Accommodations

Resort amenity and services highlights:

* Full-service business center
* Concierge desk
* Access to Cabana Beach Club, a private, oceanfront club
* Complimentary resort shuttle to golf courses and Cabana Beach
* Nine restaurants, lounges, cafes and coffee shops
* 25,000 square-foot spa
* Sawgrass Kids Klub
* 56,000 square-feet of meeting and event space with 36 meeting rooms      
* Jogging/fitness trail
* Two fitness centers
* Miniature golf
* 3 swimming pools  

10 Little Things I Like

1. The huge, expansive, comfortable lobby of the hotel where you can stretch out and check your smart phone or work on your laptop in a relaxing environment.

2. The amazing wall art at the clubhouse in the front lobby.

3. The shuffleboard table, darts and pool table at Alice & Pete's Pub.

4. The large (I guess about 5 inches wide) shower head in my shower in my room.

5. The plush, Euro style bedding.

6. The large work desk in my room.

7. The locally brewed Killer Whale cream ale on tap at Alice & Pete's Pub.

8. The Starbucks near the front lobby where you can grab a cup of coffee on the way to the golf course.

9. The roasted chicken served on a bed of garlic mash potatoes at Alice & Pete's Pub.

10. The lobby bar with views of a waterfall and the par-3, 13th hole of THE PLAYERS Stadium Course.

LOCATION

TPC Sawgrass/Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa are located in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, 18 miles from downtown Jacksonville and 22 miles from the historic city of St. Augustine. Jacksonville International Airport is located 35 miles from the resort.

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