6 Important Reasons to Visit and Golf in Thailand
Golf in Thailand has surged significantly over the past ten years or so. Golf travelers now firmly recognize the impressive variety and superior standards of Thailand golf courses, which have become an integral part of Thailand’s tourism industry, captivating visitors from around the world. However, the allure of Thailand as a golfing destination extends far beyond these factors. Indeed, the Thailand golf experience holds numerous additional delights to be explored. In the following article, we will give you the top 6 reasons to visit Thailand for a golf holiday in 2023/2024.
1. World-class Golf Courses
Thailand boasts an impressive selection of over 250 golf courses spanning the entire country, providing golf enthusiasts with a plethora of choices when planning their Thailand golf tours. In the vibrant city of Bangkok alone, there are approximately 50 courses conveniently located within an hour’s reach of the city center, with some even closer. If a lively atmosphere is what you seek, Pattaya offers around 20 courses along with its bustling nightlife.
On the other side of the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin presents a more tranquil setting with beautiful beaches and excellent courses. Phuket, Thailand’s premier beach resort just a short one-hour flight from Bangkok, is home to 5 outstanding golf courses. For those seeking cooler climates, Chiang Mai in the north allures with its scenic rolling hills, rich hill tribe culture, and wonderful golfing opportunities. Adventurous golfers can venture off the beaten track to explore the jungles of Khao Yai National Park or immerse themselves in the historical sites around Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai while enjoying a round or two.
Chiang Mai Highlands Golf Club
Thailand golf courses are often designed by renowned golf architects from around the world. Notably, Jack Nicklaus has left his mark on several courses, including the esteemed Laem Chabang Country Club in Pattaya. Bangkok boasts the Greg Norman-designed Thana City Golf & Country Club, while Gary Player, Pete Dye, and Robert Trent Jones have all contributed their expertise to designing courses in Thailand. The talented architect duo of Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley have been actively involved, and their exceptional creation, Chiang Mai Highlands Golf & Resort, stands as a testament to their skills.
It’s worth mentioning that some of Thailand’s most iconic courses have been crafted by designers with little or no prior experience, such as John Morrow, who designed the esteemed Red Mountain Golf Club in Phuket, and Yoshikazu Kato, the sole designer of the remarkable Blue Canyon Country Club.
2. A Good Mix of Golf & Other Tourism Activities
Thailand’s rising popularity in golf tourism is attributed not only to the exceptional golf tours but also to its overall package of attractions. The country stands out with its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, delectable cuisine, and, importantly, its rich cultural heritage.
Thailand stunning beach
Formerly known as Siam, Thailand preserves and showcases a fascinating blend of Hindu, Buddhist, Tao, and various Asian influences. Remarkably, it remains the only country in the region to have never been colonized. Today, Thailand thrives as one of Asia’s progressive economies. The harmonious fusion of these diverse elements with the opportunity to play on world-class golf courses is what truly defines the unparalleled Thailand golf experience.
Thailand’s nightlife is also one of the must-experience things for golfers when visiting this country. Whether you find yourself in renowned Thai holiday destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, or Koh Samui, you’ll discover a marvelous array of go-go bars, beer bars, nightclubs, theater shows, and live music venues. Notable hotspots for Thailand’s nightlife include Soi Cowboy, Nana Plaza, and Khao San Road in Bangkok, Bangla Road in Phuket, Walking Street, Soi 6, and Soi Buakhao in Pattaya, as well as the Fisherman’s Village in Koh Samui.
Refer to our 15 days of Thailand Golf & Sightseeing for a full golf, cultural, and natural adventure experience in this country; in which, you will enjoy 8 rounds of golf alternating 4 sightseeing days.
3. Pleasant Climate All Year Round
Thailand offers year-round golfing opportunities, but the optimal time to visit is during the winter season, spanning from November to March, characterized by clear skies and abundant sunshine. However, the summer or “green” season is also a fantastic time to plan your visit. While occasional rain showers may occur, it’s uncommon for them to disrupt your golfing plans entirely. Moreover, this season brings the advantage of more affordable prices and less crowded golf courses. If you prefer milder temperatures, Northern Thailand provides a cooler climate compared to the hotter regions. For detailed information on the best time to visit Thailand for a golf holiday, please refer to the additional information provided here.
4. Knowledgable Caddies & Friendly People
Knowledgable caddie
The people of Thailand are renowned for their warm and welcoming nature, making their hospitality truly legendary. When it comes to the Thailand golf experience, the accompanying infrastructure further enhances the overall enjoyment.
In any discussion of hospitality within the context of golf in Thailand, caddies play a vital role. While some golfers may not initially embrace the idea of a “mandatory” caddy, many come to appreciate and enjoy it as an integral part of their Thailand golf packages. Having a caddy to carry clubs, repair divots, rake bunkers, fix pitch marks, and clean the ball has its undeniable advantages. Moreover, caddies often assist with strategizing shots based on the course layout and provide valuable insights on reading greens. Additionally, employing local caddies benefits the nearby communities surrounding the golf courses. Follow our tips to play golf in Thailand with a caddie for the best experience.
5. Convenient Transportation
Car rental in Thailand
Thailand’s infrastructure is continuously undergoing improvements, with constant upgrades to airports, roads, and mass transit systems. Whether you choose to visit any of the prominent golfing destinations in Thailand, you can expect excellent air and road connections. This ensures that traveling within the country is not only effortless but also cost-effective. Regardless of your chosen destination, you will find it remarkably easy to navigate your way around, thanks to the well-established transportation networks in place. Renting a private car with a driver in Thailand is also very convenient and at an affordable price.
6. Affordable Price
Thailand also offers exceptional value for travelers, with a wide range of hotels available to suit every budget and preference. When it comes to dining, the affordability of food is notable, and there’s no need to spend a fortune at expensive restaurants when there are plenty of affordable options to choose from. Transportation within the country is reasonably priced, with taxis readily available, and the introduction of ride-hailing apps like Uber has enhanced reliability. When it comes to golf in Thailand, this country continues to provide excellent value, with prices significantly lower compared to many other destinations in Asia. As more courses are developed, Thailand’s competitiveness in the golfing arena will continue to thrive.
And there you have it, our compelling list of 6 reasons to visit and golf in Thailand. From the warm hospitality you’ll receive wherever you venture to the outstanding golf courses, remarkable cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, Thailand offers an all-encompassing experience that is truly hard to beat.
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