Happy Friday Hidden Gem Travel community – and welcome October! I’m traveling this month as are many clients. Our destinations span the globe this month and include Bermuda, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Ireland, Peru and Thailand! I love ‘shoulder’ season travel over summer – the weather is cooler and crowds less intense. Bon voyage to all!
2026 travel is also on so many minds, so don’t hesitate to email me to get the ball rolling before January ‘s ‘wave season.’ Wave season was coined by the cruise industry but now means a ‘wave’ of interest in booking trips for the new year. We see it every year.
Do you love golf or know someone who does? We are a golfing family, so I’m well versed in the explosion of interest in the sport since the pandemic. People of all ages have been picking up the game and loving it in recent years.
In fact, I’m seeing growth in inquiries for vacations that include a round or two of golf – or as the focus of the trip. Families, foursomes (often with plus ones), and couples are ticking off global courses on their golf travel bucket list.
Interest piqued? Read on for the scoop…
The Top 50 Golf Courses
When I plan custom golf trips (or golf-focused trips), I have a very well-connected partner who can get access to the best courses. These trips blend world-class golf with outstanding hospitality, local culture, and top-notch gastronomy in a seamless itinerary. Sometimes these trips anchor around one of golf’s major events like the Ryder Cup or Majors.
Destinations with world-class golf experiences go far beyond the usual Scotland and Ireland requests. The best courses you’ve never played not only span across Europe but will take you to Africa, Australia & New Zealand, Japan/Asia, UAE, and more.
Where is on your golf travel bucket list – and who is going with you??
💎Hidden Gem Tip: When I was in New Zealand a year ago, I personally witnessed once-in-a-lifetime, world-class golf coursesset in jaw-dropping natural beauty. Australia offers similar experiences. Simply amazing!
Ocean & River Cruises with Golf
Ships on the rivers and oceans have been getting into the golf craze by offering itineraries that offer golfers the ability to play special courses along the sailing route. Non-golfers can take a tour when in port while golfers head to the course. These itineraries manage your clubs and transportation, making the process easy and enjoyable.
You’ll meet back on the ship with the non-golfers in your travelling group and swap stories about the adventures of the day!
Train travel more your speed? Read about the Italy train itinerary with a golf option in last week’s newsletter!
🎁The holidays are coming up and what better gift for the golfer in your life than a bucket list golf trip?!!
RESORT Golf
Warm getaways at beautiful resorts are perennially popular, and I have a master list of resorts and villas where great golf is just steps away. Whether you want to travel within the US, the Caribbean or further, there’s a resort with golf that’s perfect for you.
In 2026, I’ll be personally checking out the best courses in Los Cabos, Mexico and Hawaii. And there are some fantastic resorts in Europe with amazing courses. The sky is the limit.
If you know anyone who would benefit from working with a travel professional on their next trip of a lifetime, the first step in the process is to request a complimentary consultation which you can do by replying to this email or clicking the button below.
To travel is to live… here’s to late 2025 and 2026 being unforgettable and amazing years for new travel adventures! Let’s go…
Susan
I’m ready to plan my trip of a lifetime!!
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