Pattaya - A Golfers Paradise

Pattaya - A Golfers Paradise

Golf in Thailand is the equal of anywhere in the world, but at a fraction of the cost, with fantastic courses to suit golfers of all abilities, from those with low handicaps to complete novices. Pattaya, Chonburi and Rayong, along with the other Eastern Seaboard provinces, feature more than 25 of Thailand's finest golf courses in  landscaped, tropical settings, all of which are to be found within one hours drive of Pattaya City centre. Due to the temperate tropical climate, which allows for a year round golf season and the arrival of thousands of golf mad expatriates from all over the world, golf has become the most popular leisure activity in Pattaya.

Because in all Western countries golf is still perceived as an exclusive sport for the rich and club membership fees are too expensive for it to be affordable to the average working man, golf in Pattaya is not just inexpensive for any foreign visitor – it's downright cheap. Green fees from less than 500 Baht and usually not exceeding 3000 Baht, also account for the rapidly rising popularity golf enjoys among Thailand's growing middle and upper classes.

Many of Pattaya's golf courses have been designed by some of the world's most famous names in golf course design, such as Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Nick Faldo, Pete Dye, Desmond Muirhead and Robert Trent Jones.  There are also a number of locally designed courses that  make golf in Pattaya a truly unforgettable experience. Clubhouse facilities are excellent, with more than to be expected facilities, including swimming pools, massage services, great restaurants and superb shower and locker rooms. All courses provide caddies to guide you through your round and it is advisable to make use of the buggies, especially in the midday sun. In fact. on the more exclusive courses they are mandatory. On the course, covered drinks areas are strategically and conveniently located every three or four holes.

For those without their own vehicle, there are many specialized agencies that offer regular golf tours and holiday packages and for those novice players, those less experienced players, or those who just want practice their swing, there are several driving ranges right within the city itself. If you intend to play more than one round of golf, then it is worth joining Pattaya Sports Club to take advantage of the discounts offered to members at most of the golf courses.  They can be contacted at Pattaya Sports Club,197 M-6, Pattaya 3rd Road
Banglamung, Chonburi, Thailand 20150. Tel: (66) 038-361-167. Fax: (66) 038-361-929.
Email: golf@pattayasports.org. Web: www.pattayasports.org