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region_2.id | region_2.ts | region_2.region | region_2.description | region.id | region.ts | region.region |
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1 | 2018-03-22 04:07:37 | Algeria | <p>Algeria was once on a par with neighbouring Morocco as a popular travel destination, but Algeria's civil war made a complete mess of tourism. It is a great shame because Algeria is one of North Africa's most mythical countries with a diversity of cultures.</p><p>There are signs that Algeria’s conflicts are on the wane and country is slowly but surely beginning to recover, but the security situation is still volatile. If you are intending to travel to Algeria you should check out the latest situation.</p><p>The Algerian Golf Federation exists, so there is hope for developing golf in this country. We are aware of only one golf course in Algeria, the Algiers Golf Club in Dely-Ibrahim but we have little knowledge of the course. If you know anything about golf in Algeria, we’d love to hear from you.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
2 | 2018-03-22 04:50:34 | Angola | <p>Angola is perhaps not the destination of choice for travelling golfers but if you do pass through this Sub-Saharan country you may be surprised to hear that there are three golf courses in Angola. The vast majority of Angolans live in poverty so we feel a bit insensitive about focusing on golf which is well out of reach for the average Angolan. </p><p>However, in our quest to bring you information about golf in each and every country we must confess to have struggled with Angola. Detailed information is scant but we do know there is a nine-holer which is located some 15 km to the south of Luanda… it’s either called Morro dos Veados or it’s located in a region by that name. The second course, we think, is owned by one of the oil companies but we don’t have any details. </p><p>The third course is at the Mangais Ecotourismo resort and, as luck would have it, in November 2013 Tony Wardle contacted us: “I am currently building a Port in Angola and I play golf these days at Mangais on the River Kwansa. It’s the only proper course in Angola and was designed by Jorge Santana da Silva who is an extremely talented architect. The course is a really great track with a mixture of open holes, plenty of lakes and some truly great parkland holes. The greenkeeping is of a very good standard and the clubhouse top quality. I would recommend Mangais at Barra do Kwanza to anyone who visits the country.”</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
3 | 2018-09-01 04:35:55 | Benin | <p>Benin, officially the Republic of Benin, was once known as Dahomey or Dahomania and was historically a mighty culture, now this tiny country has plenty of attractions, including fetish markets and voodoo. </p><p>According to the late Eunice Rawlings, “If you're looking for an unusual, affordable vacation, be sure to put Benin on your 'Agenda Africa' for the coming year. Benin is an enchanting West African nation roughly the size of Pennsylvania, yet it is a complete destination with enough variety to fill a two-week vacation.” </p><p> So, should you pack your golf clubs? Well, we know very little about golf in Benin but what we do know is that Benin Golf Club exists as it’s the home club of former African champion, Victor Enaigbe and there’s also a nine-hole course connected to the Hotel Accor Aledjo in Cotonou. Please contact us if you know more about golf in Benin.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
4 | 2018-09-01 04:37:22 | Botswana | <p>If you like things wild, then you’ll love Botswana. The roads are dusty (if you can find them) and it’s a wilderness of Kalahari Desert, salt pans and wetlands where the wild Okavango River delta is home to some of the Africa’s most stunning wildlife. Botswana is one of the world's richest sources of diamonds and there are a number of golf clubs in Botswana where the lack of grass is the biggest problem. The greens, or should we say browns are rolled and brushed and Bob’s your uncle. </p><p>But things are changing. Botswana is rapidly becoming a hot golfing destination and that’s not just due to the climate. There are approximately a dozen courses here and the best is located close to Botswana's capital city, Gaborone. Phakalane Golf Resort</a> is an imaginative 18-hole championship course and it’s actually rather good.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
5 | 2018-09-01 04:37:33 | Burkina Faso | <p>Burkina Faso is a landlocked nation in West Africa formerly known as the Upper Volta. Its new name, meaning "the land of upright people", brings hope to the nation. There is little wealth in Burkina Faso; in fact, it’s one of the world’s poorest countries, so golf courses are naturally few and far between. </p><p>Thanks to Will for informing us that there is one golf club at Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso. Le Golf Club de Ouagadougou has a 10-hole course that plays across a rather arid landscape where you’ll putt out on browns rather than greens and play your approach shots from a piece of Astroturf. </p><p>The Ouagadougou course may be rudimentary but perhaps one day a champion golfer will emerge from this impoverished tropical land.<br></p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
6 | 2018-09-01 04:37:45 | Burundi | <p>Burundi is synonymous with drumming and the Burundi drum is still a national symbol of this tumultuous mountainous country. It’s worth checking the current situation before travelling as the beautiful Burundi staggers out from decade of inter-tribal war. </p><p>Even though Burundi is one of Africa’s poorest nations the country can boast one golf course at Bujumbura Golf Club which apparently recently survived a rebel attempt to take over and destroy the club. A tentative Burundian peace now exists.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
7 | 2018-09-01 04:38:00 | Cameroon | <p>The government of Cameroon describes the country as "Africa in miniature" and with rainforests, safaris and sun kissed, languid beaches Cameroon is slowly becoming a serious tourist destination. Cameroon also proudly boasts Africa’s most successful national football (soccer) team, five times a FIFA World Cup qualifying team.</p><p>With football as the Cameroon’s adopted national sport, golf plays the second or perhaps even third sporting fiddle in this Anglo/French speaking country. There were only two Cameroonian golf courses that we knew about, Likomba Golf Club in the English speaking town of Tiko and another golf course attached to the Mont Febe Hotel at Yaoundé, but we heard from Edo that there’s a 9-holer at Kribi near the Atlantic and another 9-holer in the Western Region at Foumban. Derick recently confirmed that the biggest and oldest golf course is that of Likomba. Please contact us if you have further details on the golf courses of Cameroon.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
8 | 2018-09-01 04:38:10 | Cape Verde | <p>The nine islands of the Cape Verde archipelago are located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the west coast of Africa. The Portuguese discovered the islands in the 15th century and Cape Verde attained independence in 1975 becoming a Republic. Cape Verde is culturally varied with a refreshing blend of Portuguese, Senegalese and Brazilian. </p><p>If you’re looking for a location with a difference and want to visit the homeland of the Cape Verdean popular singer and “barefoot diva”, Cesária Évora, look no further than the valleys, volcanoes and pristine white beaches of the emerging Cape Verde. </p><p>The best golf course in Cape Verde (according to Golf Digest) is at Mindelo but you won’t find much grass here as the putting surfaces are mud browns rather than grass greens. However all of that may soon change. South African golfer Ernie Els, in association with the Irish company Cape Verde Development, is to design four courses as part of a £1.75 billion scheme to establish Cape Verde as a new golf destination. Click here</a> for more.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
9 | 2018-09-01 04:38:25 | Central African Republic | <p>Ubangi-Shari, as it was called when it was a French colony, gained independence from France in 1960 and became the Central African Republic. The country has been unstable ever since and has endured decades of misrule and a grim period under self-declared emperor, Jean-Bedel Bokassa, who headed a brutal regime. </p><p>The Central African Republic is one of the least-developed countries in the world and if you want to get away from commercial Africa then it might be the place for you. </p><p>Naturally, golf in the Central African Republic is a somewhat scarce commodity and you’ll find only one golf course located in the capital Bangui. We know nothing about the Bangui golf course, indeed we can’t tell you whether it has greens or browns, but we suspect the latter. If you have any information we’ll be thrilled to hear from you.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
10 | 2018-09-01 04:38:44 | Chad | <p>The landscape of landlocked Chad comprises mainly of semi-desert and despite being Africa’s fifth-largest country, it struggles with poverty and internal conflict between the Muslims in the north and the Christians in the south. Rich in minerals, including gold, Chad’s people may soon reap financial reward from its oil production. </p><p>Naturally golf is not a common pursuit among the people of Chad and we are unaware of any grassed course in the country. There is apparently one 9-hole golf course in N'Djamena, Chad’s capital city. We think it’s a sand based layout but we don’t know for sure. If you can throw any light on golf in Chad, we’d love to hear from you.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
11 | 2018-09-01 04:38:49 | Comoros | <p>The Comoros, or the Union of the Comoros as it is officially known, is a tiny island archipelago located off Africa’s eastern coast. The three Indian Ocean islands which form the Comoros – Moheli, Anjouan and the largest island, Grande Comore – could be a heavenly holiday paradise, but lengthy political violence has left the country desperately poor. </p><p>Against the backdrop of its diminutive size and poverty, the Comoros cannot afford any golf courses. One day this beautiful country – nicknamed ‘Cloud Coup-Coup’ land because of its multiple coups since gaining independence from France in 1975 – may become a popular holiday destination. In the meanwhile leave your clubs at home and visit the Comoros simply to chillax.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
12 | 2018-09-01 04:39:02 | Cote d'Ivoire | <p>The Republic of Côte d'Ivoire or the Ivory Coast as it is more commonly known in English, was once a powerful French outpost and the country continued to prosper for a couple of decades after gaining independence from France. Sadly, an armed rebellion in 2002 split the country in half and the Ivory Coast has been on the rocky road to recovery ever since. </p><p>There are reputedly five golf courses in the Côte d'Ivoire and the one that gets the general thumbs up is located across the road from the Inter-Continental Abidjan Hotel. It’s commonly known as the Ivoire Golf Club. The Open de Cote d'Ivoire (a former European Challenge Tour event) was held three times at the Ivoire Golf Club and it was here in 1999 that Ian Poulter won the title. This was the country’s last notable golf tournament. From 1980 to 1992, the Ivory Coast Open was hosted at the President Golf Club in Yamoussoukro. Gary Player, Vijay Singh and Gordon Brand were all former winners. We may feature both aforementioned courses at some future point.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
13 | 2018-09-01 04:39:07 | Democratic Republic of Congo | <p>The Democratic Republic of Congo is the third largest country in Africa and has been known by a plethora of former names including Zaire, Belgian Congo and Congo Free State to mention three. Naturally the country is dominated by the Congo River, which arcs its way across the country for nearly 3,000 miles. </p><p>The Democratic Republic of Congo has a handful of golf courses and there is a fine 18-hole tree-lined course in the capital city at Golf Club de Kinshasa, which is a testing par 72 6,235-yard layout. Another course worthy of mention is Golf de Lubumbashi which is set in the second largest city (the largest city being the capital, Kinshasa). The 18-hole Golf Club Diosso is considered to be a testing course with sand greens. </p><p>We may feature a course from the Democratic Republic of Congo on the Top 100 website at some future point, so if you have first hand experience of either course or even a course photograph, we’d love to hear from you.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
14 | 2018-09-01 04:39:19 | Djibouti | <p>Located in the Horn of Africa, the Republic of Djibouti is a barren country that can thank its strategic Red Sea location for its main economic asset. Imports and exports are the essence of the former French colony’s trade and revenue from stationed French and US troops contribute significantly to the country’s income. </p><p>Djibouti may be small in size but it does have one golf course at Douda Golf Club. The greens are oiled browns but at least you will be allowed to pick and place your ball on a piece of Astroturf rather than playing from perpetual sand. </p><p>We doubt the Royal & Ancient game will ever develop much beyond the facilities of Douda Golf Club but you never know. Perhaps the French will design a Morfontaine-like grass course here at some future point?</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
15 | 2018-09-01 04:39:30 | Egypt | <p>Egypt is a truly enchanting and mystical holiday destination. A cruise along the Nile from Luxor to Aswan, taking in the Valley of the Kings – where the Pharaohs were laid to rest – and various temples along the way will remain etched in the memory for a lifetime. Factor in a few days in Cairo for The Sphinx and The Great Pyramids and then finish off with a laze by the Red Sea. If you don’t believe us, then you should listen to the words of Greek historian Herodotus who lived in the 5th century BC, “nowhere in the world are there so many marvellous things of unspeakable greatness”. So get your bags packed and don't forget your clubs.</p><p>There are now more than twenty golf courses in Egypt with the majority constructed since the late 1990s. However, golf in Egypt dates back to WW1 when the British Forces, stationed in Cairo, introduced the game at the Gezira Sporting Club and later in the 1920s the game was played at the Alexandria Sporting Club.</p><p>Leading designers such as Greg Norman (Allegria</a>), Nick Faldo with Schmidt Curley Design (Katameya Dunes</a>) and Gary Player (Cascades at Soma Bay</a>) have unveiled layouts here in Egypt but the most prolific architect in modern times is undoubtedly American John Sanford. Several projects bear his stamp of approval, including Madinat Makadi</a> and the 2013 co-design of Palm Hills</a> with Jack Nicklaus.</p><p>We updated Egypt's rankings in February 2017. Full details are here: Top 10 Golf Courses of Egypt 2017</a><br></p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
16 | 2018-09-01 04:39:37 | Equatorial Guinea | <p>Located in Central Africa, Equatorial Guinea lies on the west coast of the continent and it’s comprised of two parts, a mainland region and an insular region. The former territory is bordered by Cameroon to the north and Gabon to the east and south whilst the latter consists of two islands, Bioko and Annabon. </p><p>The country gained independence from Spain in 1968 but old colonial ties remain strong, with Spanish still regarded as an official language and in common use by a population of around one and a quarter million residents. The capital city of Malabo lies to the north of Bioko, though there are plans to create a new capital, Oyala, on the mainland. </p><p>Equatorial Guinea’s main claim to sporting fame came recently when it co-hosted the African Cup of Nations football tournament in 2012. We understand there are at least two golf courses in the country, the Presidential course in Mongomo, which hosted the 3E Actuaries Equatorial Guinea Golf Championship in 2016, and a new hotel resort course at Sipopo on Bioko. </p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
17 | 2018-09-01 04:39:43 | Eritrea | <p>Once an Italian colony and occupied by the British during World War II, Eritrea finally became independent from neighbouring Ethiopia in 1993 after more than three decades of armed struggles. Since then, Eritrea has clashed with Yemen and again with Ethiopia. A fragile peace exists today but Eritrea still has much rebuilding to do after so much conflict. </p><p>Eritrea’s long Red Sea coastline could be seen as ideal golf terrain but it’s that very coastline – and its associated infrastructure – that is so important to landlocked Ethiopia. We suspect that golf will be at the bottom of the rebuilding agenda. There are no golf courses in Eritrea and we doubt any are likely to appear in the near future.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
18 | 2018-09-01 04:39:54 | Ethiopia | <p>Landlocked Ethiopia is bordered by Eritrea to the north, Sudan to the west, Kenya to the south, Somalia to the east and Djibouti to the northeast. After Nigeria, Ethiopia is Africa's second most populous country and, according to the bible, it’s where Adam and Eve lived. Around the capital Addis Ababa, some of the oldest traces of humanity were found. Ethiopia is undeniably an historical treasure. </p><p>Haile Selassie reigned supreme for a large part of the 20th century, uniting Ethiopia and other parts of Africa and he is still considered Jah’s (God’s) incarnation by the Rastafari movement. A Soviet-supported Junta deposed Selassie in the mid 1970s and turmoil promptly ensued in the shape of droughts, famines and uprisings. The country is only just beginning to stagger back from decades of terrible hardship. </p><p>Golf, therefore, is not high up on the Ethiopian agenda but the country does have two golf courses, both located in the capital. Addis Ababa Golf Club has 9 holes and there’s a 6-hole course at the British Embassy. We also understand that an 18-hole course is planned in the Legetafo area, part of huge development that includes a luxury hotel and conference centre. Perhaps there’s hope on the Ethiopian horizon?</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
19 | 2018-09-01 04:39:57 | Gabon | <p>Formerly a French colony, Gabon gained independence from France in 1960 and has since enjoyed more than half a century of stability. With a relatively small population and thanks to its oil exports, Gabon enjoys reasonable wealth although most Gabonese live in poverty. With vast National parks and dense rainforests teeming with wildlife, including lowland gorillas and forest elephants, Gabon is an exciting West African destination. </p><p>According to the Gabonese Golf Federation, there are five golf courses in Gabon and perhaps the best of them all is the Golf Club de Libreville, which tends to host most important Gabonese golf tournaments. Another course that comes highly regarded can be found at Golf Club de Port-Gentil. We may feature Libreville Golf Club at some future point and perhaps also Port-Gentil. Watch this space.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
20 | 2018-09-01 04:40:04 | Gambia | <p>The smallest country on the African continent, Gambia extends to only 4,000 square miles. It’s completely surrounded by Senegal, apart from a 50-mile coastline to the west and the border with its all-embracing neighbour follows the meandering Gambia River inland from the Atlantic Ocean. From the 16th century onwards, Gambia was ruled by the colonial powers of Portugal, France and Britain at various times until it finally gained independence in 1965, becoming a republic five years later. </p><p>The Gambia Golf Association was formed in 2009 to promote the game nationally but at the moment only a couple of clubs in the Serekunda region are affiliated. The first of these is Kololi Beach Club, a short 18-hole pitch and putt course and the other is the Fajara Club, where an 18-hole course has been in play since 1974. What might appeal to traditionalists is that both these golfing layouts still use oiled sand browns as putting surfaces instead of greens.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
21 | 2018-09-01 04:40:13 | Ghana | <p>Ghana – known as the Gold Coast up until independence from Britain in 1957 – lies just to the north of the Equator on the west coast of Africa, bordering Ivory Coast, Burkino Faso, Togo and the Gulf of Guinea. The country attracts many visitors annually as eco tourists to its National Parks and Nature Reserves whilst others are drawn to explore the craft villages, participate in the numerous Festivals or just relax on the golden beaches. </p><p>There are more than a dozen castles and forts dotted around the country – symbols of former Portuguese, Dutch, British and French colonial power – and these World Heritage Monuments draw in plenty of sightseers every year. </p><p>On the sporting front, football is the number one game with the national team qualifying for the World Cup Finals in 2006 and 2010. The under-23 team also finished in the bronze position at the Barcelona Olympics in 1992. Golf is very much a minority sport in Ghana but there are a dozen or so courses in the country, with Accra’s Achimota Golf Club</a> the best of these.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
22 | 2018-09-01 04:40:24 | Guinea | <p>Guinea or the République de Guinée to be precise lies on the west coast of Africa. Formerly known as French Guinea, the country is bounded by six other nations along a 2,100-mile border, and around a quarter of its estimated population of ten million people live in the port city of Conakry. Independent from France since 1958, French is still the official language of Guinea, though it’s said that there are twenty-four different local languages in use throughout the country. </p><p>The world's second largest producer of bauxite, Guinea is also rich in other precious minerals such as gold and diamonds. In such an impoverished country, it’s little wonder that stories relating to corruption in the mining industry dominate the news headlines whenever the media examine the economy in detail. </p><p>It’s highly unlikely that golf will ever feature whenever sport is discussed by Guineans, but football… well, the national sport is played anywhere and everywhere by just about everybody, young and old. The national team has never qualified for the World Cup Finals but locals live in hope to one day cheer on the players of the National Elephant, as the team’s called, in the latter stages of a major competition.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
23 | 2018-09-01 04:40:38 | Guinea-Bissau | <p>Once part of the Mali Empire, the Republic of Guinea-Bissau is a West African country that shares its border with Senegal to the north and Guinea to the south and east. Its population of just over one and a half million people occupy a low-lying landscape that extends to around 14,000 square miles. Portuguese is the country’s official language – even though Guinea-Bissau gained independence from its European colonial masters in 1974 – but, remarkably, it’s estimated that less than one person in seven can actually speak it. </p><p>With its Atlantic coastline to the west and warm all-year-round climate, you might expect a thriving economy. Unfortunately, Guinea-Bissau is rather impoverished with more than two-thirds of the population living below the poverty line. Golf is naturally not on the agenda in Guinea-Bissau. There are no golf courses in the country to our knowledge, but if you know otherwise we’ll be thrilled to hear from you.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
24 | 2018-09-01 04:40:49 | Kenya | <p>The vast majority of foreign travellers who visit Kenya want to experience the wildlife and, with the world’s most famous game reserve on hand, there is nowhere better to see the wildebeest migration than the Maasai Mara. The Kenyan coast is fringed with gleaming white sandy beaches and the Indian Ocean provides for some of the best diving in the world.</p><p>With mountains – Mount Kenya is Africa’s second highest peak – thick equatorial jungle, freshwater and soda based volcanic lakes and the vast desert wilderness to the north of the country, Kenya has it all. Did we mention two of the world’s most fascinating cities, Nairobi and Mombasa? </p><p>You may be surprised to hear that there are around forty golf courses in Kenya and the game took off thanks to Aussie Peter Thomson who inaugurated the Kenya Open Golf Championship back in 1967. The event still takes place at Karen Country Club</a> and Muthaiga Golf Club</a>, home of the Kenya Golf Union. The Kenya Open has also been held at Royal Nairobi Golf Club</a> which dates back more than 100 years, so golf is no newcomer to Kenya. </p><p>We last updated our rankings for the Top 10 Golf Courses of Kenya</a> in February 2017 – click the link to read the story.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
25 | 2018-09-01 04:41:01 | Lesotho | <p>Independent since 1966, the enclave of Lesotho is completely surrounded by the South African nation. As large tracts of the country lie at an altitude of around 6,000 feet above sea level, it’s not uncommon to see snow fall on these highlands during the winter months. The former British protectorate’s economy is heavily reliant on South Africa and both countries profit from a partnership in the Lesotho Highlands Water Project that delivers hydroelectric power to Lesotho and a precious water supply to its all-embracing neighbour.</p><p>The only golf course in Lesotho is found in Maseru and it’s a 9-hole layout situated between the Kingsway Bypass and Maseru Bypass in the west district of the capital city. As the course at Maseru Golf Club co-hosts an annual competition with Ladybrand Golf Club, located ten miles to the north in the Free State of South Africa, the Mahokare Classic can be regarded as a truly international event.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
26 | 2018-09-01 04:41:22 | Liberia | <p>Liberia is situated on the west coast of Africa, sharing national boundaries with Sierra Leone, Guinea and Cote d’Ivoire. Much of its territory is covered in mangroves and swamps, with tropical rainforests blanketing the elevated, hillier parts of the country. Many of working age within Liberia’s population of four million people is unemployed, making it one of the most disadvantaged nations in the world. Of course, a couple of civil wars since 1989 have done nothing to help the plight of the poor as the country strives to move forward.</p><p>There are a couple of 9-hole golf courses located just outside Monrovia. Seaview, the newer of the two layouts, was built on swampland at the mouth of the St Paul River in the 1970s and this course was subsequently frequented by Irish troops working in the Liberian UN Mission. Harbel, forty miles to the east, is where the other course is laid out within the Firestone tyre company’s enormous rubber plantation. The club hosted Liberia’s inaugural pro-am tournament in 2011 when 10 professionals and 25 amateur golfers participated in the competition.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
27 | 2018-09-01 04:41:33 | Libya | <p>If you are looking for sun, sand and sea then look no further than Libya. OK, there’s a lot of desert here, but despite its reputation, Libya is a country with heart and some amazing history, including the ancient Roman city of Leptis Magna. Unfortunately, since the demise of the Gadaffi regime in 2011, the country has descended into complete turmoil, with militias now controlling large swathes of a country that's ruled, incredibly, by two different governments.</p><p>A couple of rudimentary 9-hole courses sprung up around the capital at the start of the new millennium, one close to the now defunct Tripoli International airport and one on the site of an old rubbish tip at Gargarish, on the Mediterranean coast. Oil workers were able to play on a few basic layouts in the oil fields, with oil-based browns used as putting surfaces, but these have all now fallen into disrepair since expat workers were evacuated. <br></p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
28 | 2018-09-01 04:41:45 | Madagascar | <p>Located off the south east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world. The country threw off its French colonial shackles in 1960 but unfortunately, after more than half a century of independence, it’s reckoned that more than half of Madagascar’s 22 million people still earn below the national poverty mark of one dollar a day. </p><p>As you can imagine, the provision of golf facilities in such an impoverished country is hardly high on the national agenda though there are said to be several 9-hole courses dotted around the island. For sure, the best course is located in the capital of Antananarino, where the fairways at the private International Club du Rova form the only full 18-hole layout in the country.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
29 | 2018-09-01 04:41:56 | Malawi | <p>Bordered by Zambia, Tanzania and Mozambique, Malawi is located in the south east of the African continent and its population of around 15 million people occupy a country that’s a little smaller in size than England. Malawi’s been politically separate from the UK since 1964 but its development has been painfully slow as it goes through the difficult process of becoming financially independent. </p><p>There are around a dozen 9-hole golf courses scattered throughout Malawi – one of them belongs to Blantyre Sports Club, formed in 1894 – with the latest of these layouts opening at Mapiri Lodge. The course at Lilongwe Golf Club is the only 18-hole layout in the country, dating back to 1930. Home to the Malawi Open, the course’s narrow tree-lined fairways are being upgraded with a modern irrigation system to improve its year-round playability.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
30 | 2018-09-01 04:42:08 | Mali | <p>The landlocked nation of Mali lies in western Africa, surrounded by seven other countries, and although it has been free from French colonial rule since 1960, the country still seeks to establish a stable political environment that will allow its fifteen million inhabitants to prosper. </p><p>The Great Mosque of Djenne, the largest mud brick building in the world, is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and this national treasure is one of the most famous landmarks on the entire continent. </p><p>The 5-star, 191-room Laico l'Amitié Bamako hotel sits on the northern bank of the mighty River Niger in downtown Bamako and it offers residents the use of a tight 9-hole golf course that’s set within its own private grounds with tree-lined fairways routed around tennis courts and an outdoor swimming pool. As far as we are aware, this is the only golf facility in the whole country.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
31 | 2018-09-01 04:42:17 | Mauritania | <p>Located on the west coast of the African continent, surrounded by four other countries, Mauritania has been described as “a poor desert nation that straddles the Arab and African worlds”. Much of its 400,000 square mile landscape consists of vast arid plains that are occasionally broken up by long, southwest facing escarpments. </p><p>More than half a century after gaining independence from France in 1960, the country is still politically unstable, as demonstrated in 2008 by the overthrowing of the government in a military coup d'état. </p><p>Nouakchott, the capital, is home to more than half of Mauritania’s population of three million people. It lies on the Atlantic coast, where a deep sea port allows cargo to be (mainly) imported and exported. It’s said that golfing fairways once operated within the city but, try as we might, we cannot find any present day trace of the Nouakchott Golf Course – if you can help us track down this elusive layout, we’d be delighted to hear from you.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
32 | 2018-09-01 04:42:29 | Mauritius | <p>The island of Mauritius conjures up the tropical paradise image and the country of celebration… based on the sheer number of festivals that take place on this glorious and most accessible island in the Indian Ocean. With its Anglo-French history and its historical industries of sugar, tea and tobacco it’s becoming a desirable destination for more adventurous travellers. </p><p>Having recently been awarded “Golf Destination of the Year” for Africa, the Indian Ocean and the Gulf States, Toto Ghoorah, Director UK Office, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority said: "Mauritius is the new kid on the block as far as golf is concerned. After just five or six years we have been able to establish ourselves as a golf destination par excellence.” </p><p>With a dozen or so courses to choose from on the island, there is no doubt that Mauritius is well on its way to becoming a truly outstanding golf destination. If you don’t believe us, then simply check out Bernhard Langer’s Le Touessrok</a> (recently renamed Ile aux Cerfs), which is set on its own island known as the “Island of the Deer”. Anahita</a>, the course that Ernie Els designed, is causing quite a stir and the Legend course at Belle Mare Plage</a> is well worthy of close inspection.</p><p>Our Mauritius rankings were last updated in February 2017.</p> |
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33 | 2018-09-01 04:42:33 | Mayotte | <p>An overseas department of France since 2011, the Indian Ocean archipelago of Mayotte is situated to the east of the African continent, between Madagascar and Mozambique. Grande-Terre (or Mahoré, as it’s sometimes called) is the largest island – measuring approximately 24 miles long by 14 miles wide – and it’s home to around 200,000 people, many of whom live in Mamoudzou, the capital. </p><p>The only course in the country is found at Golf Club Ylangs, formed in 1998 when nine fairways were carved through an old ylang-ylang plantation in Combani, a couple of miles to the east of Tsingoni. Extending to just over 2,400 yards, the course features two different tee positions at every hole, which allows a full 18-hole round to be played on the nine oiled-sand browns.</p> |
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34 | 2018-09-01 04:42:50 | Morocco | <p>Morocco is situated on the north western corner of Africa with Algeria to the east and Mauritania to the south. The Moroccan coastline stretches from the Atlantic, past the Strait of Gibraltar into the Mediterranean Sea, giving the country significant strategic control over traffic entering and leaving the Med. Most of the thirty million residents of “the Western Kingdom” – as its Arab name translates to – live to the west of the Atlas Mountains as the inhospitable Sahara desert lies on the other side of this range running down the spine of the country.</p><p>Marrakech attracts the bulk of the tourists and Fez is a major cultural and religious centre but the coastal cities of Agadir, Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier are where modern day Moroccan movers and shakers operate. It’s also where many of the top Moroccan golf courses are located, with some long established courses – Royal Tangiers Golf Club was formed in 1917 – as proof of a strong golfing tradition dating back almost a century. It's a pity European golfers have been slow to recognise such an accessible, affordable, all year round destination lies right on their doorstep because Morocco has much to offer by way of top quality courses.</p><p>We last updated our Top 20 Golf Courses of Morocco</a> rankings in December 2015. Click the link to read the story. <br></p> |
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35 | 2018-09-01 04:42:56 | Mozambique | <p>With an Indian Ocean coastline of more than two thousand miles, Mozambique lies on the southeastern side of the African continent where it shares inland borders with six other nations. The Portuguese colonised the country in the 16th century and it took the best part of five hundred years before it finally gained independence in 1975. A painful civil war then ensued from which the country is only now just emerging as it strives to find the path to future prosperity. </p><p>There are only a couple of golf courses in Mozambique, both of them 9-hole layouts. The first of these is Beira, apparently laid out in 1907, and the other is Maputo, which lies 750 miles to the north on a tract of land next to where the Pungue River enters the Indian Ocean. Another couple of developments at Bilene and Mossuril Bay have been on the drawing board for some time now and they’ll effectively double the golf provision in the country if they come to fruition.</p> |
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36 | 2018-09-01 04:44:04 | Namibia | <p>Independent from South Africa since 1990, Namibia is one of the most sparsely populated nations in the world. Considering a large proportion of the country is designated as desert, which explains why such a huge chunk of the southwest African continent should contain a relatively small number of people. </p><p>Namibia is blessed with an abundance of natural resources and is noted for its mineral mining of lead, zinc, silver and diamonds. It has also increased export capacity of uranium in recent years and the country seems destined to overtake Niger as the leading producer in Africa. </p><p>Golf does not play a large part in the sporting life of the two million Namibians who inhabit the country but there are over a dozen golf courses dotted around the land – a legacy from its former colonial past with Germany – and the best of these are Windhoek Golf & Country Club</a>, the Bush Course of Tsumeb and Rössmund Country Club near Swakopmund.</p><p>The Namibian golfing bar was raised in 2012 when Peter Matkovich's signature design at Omeya Golf Estate</a> opened for play. </p><p>Our Namibia rankings were last updated in March 2017.</p> |
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37 | 2018-09-01 04:44:17 | Niger | <p>Niger’s land boundaries with seven other West African nations stretch to over 3,500 miles and the country occupies an area of just under half a million square miles, most of it located in the Sahara desert. Niger has struggled for prosperity since it became independent in 1960 but potential earnings from recently found oil and gold reserves might yet see a substantial increase in the country’s annual per capita income. </p><p>Niger’s one and only course is located to the north west of Niamey at Golf Club de Rio Bravo, where playing conditions at this 18-hole layout are far removed from the pristine, polished playing surfaces found elsewhere in the developed world. Holes are played with an orange-coloured ball teed from a square of astroturf then subsequent shots are taken from a fairway mat, en route to brown, oiled sand putting surfaces.</p> |
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38 | 2018-09-01 04:44:28 | Nigeria | <p>Nigeria is one of the most populated countries in the world with around 150 million inhabitants, and it is estimated that one in four people in all of Africa is Nigerian. It is one of the largest oil producers in the world with petroleum products accounting for a significant proportion of the country’s earnings. </p><p>Located on the west of the continent in the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria shares borders with Benin, Niger, Chad and Cameroon, gaining the status of a republic in 1963. The country was governed for years by the military but it now enjoys an elected leadership, which can hopefully steer it in the right direction towards prosperity. </p><p>Football is the chosen sport of the Nigerian people and the national team has performed well in recent World Cup and African Nations tournaments. Athletics, basketball and boxing are other sports that attract large numbers of followers but golf is beginning to capture the imagination of a growing number of Nigerians. </p><p>Our rankings for Nigeria's Top 5 Golf Courses</a> were updated in October 2015, click the link to read the story.</p> |
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39 | 2018-09-01 04:44:34 | Republic of Congo | <p>The Republic of Congo lies on the Equator and it shares boundaries with the Angolan enclave of Cabinda and four other Central African nations. Brazzaville, the capital, sits on the northern bank of the mighty Congo River, directly opposite Kinshasa, its counterpart in the Democratic Republic of Congo. </p><p>Civil wars and military conflicts have hindered political and economic progress in the country since it gained independence from France in 1960 so hopefully the next half a century will bring a sense of stability for its four million residents. </p><p>An elementary 18-hole golf course has been laid out on a plateau overlooking the Bay of Diosso on the Atlantic coast. Fairways are routed round sandy scrub land but they’re flat, relatively free of loose stones and they play to beautifully maintained hard-packed, oiled browns that are surrounded by little walls, offering little chance of playing a running shot from outside the putting surface.</p> |
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40 | 2018-09-01 04:44:44 | Reunion | <p>The French island of Reunion sits in the Indian Ocean to the east of Madagascar and is home to a population of nearly a million Creoles. The Portuguese are believed to have been the first Europeans to visit here but it’s the red white and blue tricolour that has flown over the island since the early 17th century. </p><p>The island measures only 39 miles by 28 miles and its rugged terrain can be compared to other volcanic islands such as those in the Canaries or Hawaii. The highest point on Réunion, Piton de la Fournaise, rises to more than 8,500 feet above sea level and is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Not as well known as either nearby Mauritius or the Seychelles, Reunion appears to be a dot in the vast Indian Ocean, dwarfed by Madagascar. </p><p>With nearly twenty miles of welcoming beaches on its west coast and a host of mountains and forests to be explored further inland, Réunion offers visitors a wide variety of vacation opportunities and there’s some golf to be savoured too. The 18 holes at Golf Club de Bourbon are set in tropical surroundings where a host of other activities including tennis and swimming are available. The 9-holer at Dolf du Colorado makes for a pleasant afternoon, but the best golf course on the island we think is Golf du Bassin Bleu</a>.</p> |
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41 | 2018-09-01 04:44:55 | Rwanda | <p>The small landlocked nation of Rwanda is located in east central Africa, surrounded by Tanzania, Burundi, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Rwanda plunged into the darkest depths as a nation in 1994 when more than half a million of its population were killed by Rwandan military and Hutu militia groups fighting against minority Tutsis who had ruled the country for many years. Two decades later, the country is still coming to terms with such an abominable act of genocide. </p><p>The prime golf facility in the country was created in 1987 just outside Kigali, at an altitude of 4,800 feet above sea level. The course at the Source du Nil Golf Club is a par 72 layout – starting with a short par three – which has a par rating of 35 for the front nine and 37 for the back nine. The only other course in Rwanda can be found at the Mountain Gorilla’s Nest Hotel in Kinigi, 80 miles to the northwest.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
42 | 2018-09-01 04:45:02 | Sao Tome and Principe | <p>You’ll find the island nation of Sao Tome & Principe in the Gulf of Guinea, off the western equatorial coast of Africa. Consisting of two archipelagos around the two main islands of São Tomé and Príncipe, the islands are part of an extinct volcanic range that was discovered by the Portuguese in the 15th century. </p><p>The second smallest country in Africa, with a population of less than 200,000 people spread over an area of 372 square miles, the islands support a largely agricultural economy where cocoa represents around 90% of export income.</p><p> If you are in search of sun, sand and seafood, not to mention the world’s smallest ibis (the São Tomé Ibis) and the world’s largest sunbird (the Giant Sunbird), you are in the right place. If however you are in search of fairways and greens then you will be disappointed as there is no golf to be savoured yet on either the larger São Tomé or the smaller, more northerly island of Principe.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
43 | 2018-09-01 04:45:07 | Senegal | <p>Senegal, on the west coast of Africa, shares external common borders with Mauritania, Mali, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau. Internally, the country completely surrounds Gambia, the smallest nation on the continent. Culturally, the country is an exotic blend of several influences, including Western (through a long association with France) and Middle Eastern (due to trade with North African Arab nations). </p><p>For many years the grueling Dakar Rally began in Paris and ended in the Senegal capital but, due to security issues, the race was cancelled in 2008 then moved the following year to South America. </p><p>Senegal’s tourism is centred on its coastal resorts where reefs and cays are ideally suited for aquatic pursuits. Inland, large game parks and reserves await the more intrepid tourist and from a golfing perspective there are a handful of courses from which to choose. </p><p>The 9-hole Cap Skirring golf course is attached to the Club Med Resort and is a 3,455-yard Robert Berthet design from 1986. Michel Gayon skillfully laid out the Golf de Dakar-Technopole course on a tricky former salty swamp and, also in Dakar, is the 9-hole Golf des Almadies course. However, you’ll need to travel 50 miles to the south of Dakar, along the Atlantic coast, to find the country’s best golf course – Golf de Saly</a>.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
44 | 2018-09-01 04:45:23 | Seychelles | <p>The Seychelles extend to around 174 square miles and they lie over 900 miles east of the African continent in the Indian Ocean, an archipelago nation of over a hundred different granite and coral islands. Along with Mauritius and Réunion, they form a trio of very desirable top-end holiday destinations.</p><p>Vasco de Gama is thought to have been the first European to set foot in the Seychelles in 1502 but it was the French, not the Portuguese, who ruled over the territory in the latter half of the 18th century. By 1810, however, Britain had stepped in to take control, a position that lasted until the islands gained independence in 1976.</p><p>The Lemuria</a> golf course on Praslin is the only 18-hole layout in Seychelles but there is also the 9-hole Seychelles Golf Club layout – formerly known as Le Reef Golf Club – on the main island of Mahe. Routed around a mangrove swamp, it’s an interesting although rather short course.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
45 | 2018-09-01 04:45:34 | Sierra Leone | <p>Sharing borders with Guinea and Liberia, the Republic of Sierra Leone is situated on the west coast of the African continent, where an Atlantic coastline of some three hundred miles offers the country massive tourist potential. The capital and largest city of Freetown was founded by British settlers in the late 18th century and it’s home today to around a million of Sierra Leone’s population of six million people. </p><p>The 18-hole layout at Freetown Golf Club overlooks the Atlantic Ocean at Cockerill Bay, the only one of six golf courses in Sierra Leone from a decade ago that remains intact as the others fell into disrepair during a devastating eleven year-long civil war. The golf club was founded by the British military in 1904, moving to its present Lumley Beach site thirty years later.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
46 | 2018-09-01 04:45:40 | Somalia | <p>Somalia, or the Federal Republic of Somalia to be precise, is located on the Horn of Africa which protrudes for hundreds of miles into the Arabian Sea. Somalia has the longest coastline on the continent of Africa (stretching to almost twelve hundred miles) and during the Middle Ages was the stronghold of numerous powerful Somali trading empires. Central government control over the territory ceased to exist when the civil war started in 1991 and the country is now largely run by regional administrations, a system that actually seems to work, up to a point. </p><p>Sport plays a large part in the lives of many Somali people with football and basketball the two most popular activities, by far. The gold medal-winning exploits of Somali-born Mo Farah for Great Britain in the 2012 Olympics might encourage local youngsters to take up long distance running but it’s doubtful if the re-introduction of golf to the 2016 Olympic program will have the same effect in downtown Mogadishu. There was once a nine-hole golf course in the grounds of the US Embassy in the Somali capital, but to our knowledge it no longer exists.</p> |
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47 | 2018-09-01 04:45:55 | South Africa | <p>The term “Rainbow Nation” was coined by Archbishop Desmond Tutu to describe post-1994 South Africa when apartheid rule officially ended. We’re now two decades on from the troubles and it’s brilliant to see this remarkable country blossom year on year. Long may it continue.</p><p>According to the South African Golf Association, there are more than 450 affiliated golf clubs serving more than 125,000 golfers. Surprisingly, the growth in the number of courses has remained relatively static over the last few years. Most new courses tend to be of the residential type and the recent majority have been built in the Western Cape.</p><p>In 2012, we extended our South African golf course rankings to a Top 100. To read our latest 2018 news release detailing the Top 100 Golf Courses of South Africa</a>, simply click the preceding link or scroll down to see the current list.</p> |
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48 | 2018-09-01 04:46:17 | Sudan | <p>Bordered by seven other countries in the northwest region of the continent, the Arab state of Sudan is the third largest nation in Africa. Its capital city, Khartoum, sits at the point where the White Nile and Blue Nile meet to form the Nile at the start of its long journey north through Egypt to the Mediterranean Sea. </p><p>Since it gained independence in 1956, Sudan has endured a number of costly civil wars and conflicts with neighbouring nations, stunting the country’s economic growth. </p><p>Harradine Golf began work on a 9-hole floodlit course close to the Soba University Hospital in Khartoum in 2008 and two years later, Golf Club Fenti opened for play. Built on a long, flat strip of land next to a main road, fairways are routed either side of five interconnected lakes that run through the middle of the property.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
49 | 2018-09-01 04:46:28 | Swaziland | <p>Swaziland – named after Mswati II the 19th century ruler – is a land locked country, bordered on its eastern side by Mozambique with South Africa surrounding it on its other three sides. </p><p>Independent from Great Britain since 1968, the one million inhabitants of Swaziland live in a country comparable in size to Wales (measuring around 125 miles in length by approximately 80 miles wide) with most of the working population employed in subsistence agriculture. A sad fact of life for this impoverished country is that it has the highest HIV infection rate in the world (a quarter of all adults) and the lowest life expectancy (32 years). </p><p>Both of these shocking statistics affecting the ordinary people of Swaziland makes the pursuit of golf within the country appear something of a grotesque irrelevance somehow. But despite this, there are in fact around a dozen golf courses in the country and the pick of these is a Peter Matkovich remodel at the opulent 4-star Sun International Resort of Royal Swazi Spa</a>.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
50 | 2018-09-01 04:46:37 | Tanzania | <p>Tanzania, formed by the merger of Tanganyika and Zanzibar in 1964, lies on the east coast of Africa, where it shares internal boundaries with eight other countries. It’s a land of diverse topography that encompasses such world famous locations as the snow-topped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, the sparkling, deep waters of Lake Victoria and the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park – time to organise that long yearned-for safari, maybe? </p><p>The Tanzania Golf Union</a> is the sport’s governing body in Tanzania with a membership of nine clubs, seven of which have the use of 9-hole courses. Two 18-hole layouts are situated in the capital at The Tanzania People’s Defence Forces Lugalo Golf Club (Howard Swan doubled the size of the old course recently) and at the Dar Es Salaam Gymkhana Club, where golf is just one of a number of sports available to members.</p><p>The course that will bring both golf and safari lovers to Tanzania opened in 2015 and the layout was designed by David Jones, the architect who fashioned Vipingo Ridge in neighbouring Kenya. The Kilimanjaro Golf Club</a>, situated on the Kilimanjaro Golf & Wildlife Estate (also known locally as Kiligolf) is undoubtedly Tanzania’s flagship course that is routed under the watchful shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. You may also catch a glimpse of Monduli, Kiligolf's swimming giraffe</a>, who regularly takes a dip in the club pool. </p><p>Our Tanzania rankings were last updated in March 2017.<br></p> |
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51 | 2018-09-01 04:46:49 | Togo | <p>Bounded by Ghana to the west, Benin to the east and Burkina Faso to the north, the Togolese Republic (to give the country its official title) lies in a long, narrow north-south strip on the west coast of the African continent. Lomé, the capital, is situated on Togo’s short coastline along the Gulf of Guinea and it’s through the city’s port that exports like coffee and cocoa earn the country much needed foreign revenue. </p><p>Golf du Togo’s 9-hole golf course in the north suburb of Agouenyive in Lomé was fashioned in the early 1960s and its tree-lined fairways – laid out within a compact parcel of land beside the main highway north from the capital – form a welcoming green oasis for golfers visiting the capital. The only other golf facility we know if in Togo lies ten miles away on the coast, in the grounds of the Sarakawa Hotel, where a little 5-hole pitch and putt course has been built for residents.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
52 | 2018-09-01 04:46:55 | Tunisia | <p>Tunisia is the most northern country in Africa, flanked by Algeria to the west, Libya to the south and the Mediterranean Sea to the north and east of a sandy coastline that extends to over 700 miles. Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottomans and French have all ruled this area of North Africa during the past few thousand years with the Tunisian people in control of their own destiny only since independence in 1956. </p><p>Tunisia lies very close to the European continent but many believe it has been slow to market the golf facilities it can offer a large number of potential visitors. There’s plenty of golfers in a large catchment area to the north just waiting to be tempted to travel a relatively short way to play here, especially when the sun shines on this part of the world nearly all the year round. </p><p>Although the first Tunisian golf course was established at Carthage in the 1920s, it was another fifty years before others followed and American architect Ron Fream led the way, designing exciting layouts from Tabarka in the north along the coastline to Monastir. Click here</a> to read an exclusive quote he sent us from his home in Malaysia on his pioneering work in this country. </p><p>Following the 2010/11 Revolution, it will be interesting to see what the Tunisian government now does in order to further develop the nation’s golfing infrastructure.<br></p><p>We updated Tunisia's rankings in February 2017. Full details are here: Top 10 Golf Courses of Tunisia 2017</a><br></p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
53 | 2018-09-01 04:47:16 | Uganda | <p>Uganda has moved a long way forward since the days of Idi Amin and the country is enjoying a relative renaissance. With breathtaking mountains, equatorial rainforests, Lake Victoria – the world’s largest tropical lake, the mighty Nile and, of course, the country’s star attraction, the endangered mountain gorilla. Uganda is certainly an invigorated country and worthy of an open-minded look. </p><p>The Uganda Golf Union with guidance from the R&A is helping to further develop golf in Uganda at grass roots level and the country already boasts some 15 courses. In fact, as you fly into Entebbe Airport you’ll spot Garuga Golf Club close to the shore of Lake Victoria. We’d like to feature Garuga Golf Club and the Uganda Golf Club at Kampala on the Top 100 website at some future point, but we’re still researching and trying to find out more about golf in Uganda. In the meanwhile, if you know about either course, have played golf in Uganda recently or have any golf course photos of Garuga or Uganda (Kampala), we’d love to hear from you.</p><p>At the beginning of 2016, we learned that Kevin Ramsey of Golfplan had completed the first nine of a new course at Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort, on the shores of Lake Victoria, grassed with SeaSpay paspalum tees and fairways and A-4 creeping bent greens. </p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
54 | 2018-09-01 04:47:33 | Zambia | <p>As you'd expect most of the golf in Zambia is centred around the capital. Lusaka is the product of a country battling to find its way in a new world, caught between colonial beginnings, years of socialist independence and now democracy. </p><p>There are a few sports clubs, and specifically for golfers there’s the Lusaka Golf Club</a>, Chilanga Golf Club and Chainama Hills Golf Club, although according to the Zambia Golf Union</a> there are more than twenty clubs operating a minimum of nine holes in the country. </p><p>Adam sent us the following comments in October 2013: “I used to live in Zambia. There is a surprisingly beautiful golf course in Solwezi in North-western Province. It is at the Kansanshi copper mine. It has zebras and sable living on the course. Considering the surroundings it’s surprisingly beautiful.” We're not sure the course is still in existence, if you have any information please let us know.</p><p>In the late 1970s Golf Digest ranked Nchanga Golf Club</a> (built by copper miners) 14th in an article rating the 50 finest courses outside the United States, sadly it fell into disrepair, but it experienced a resurgence, hosting the Zambian Open in 2006 and 2011. If you've played any of these courses, or have any other information about golf in Zambia we'd love to hear about your experiences.</p><p>We updated our Top 5 Golf Courses of Zambia</a> rankings in October 2016. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
55 | 2018-09-01 04:47:39 | Zimbabwe | <p>Landlocked Zimbabwe has a rich cultural heritage that predates the Colonial era but few holidaymakers are heading to one of southern Africa’s most glorious countries. </p><p>Zimbabwe grew out of British Colonial Rhodesia and has been ruled since the Rhodesian Bush War by Robert Mugabe. Although the economy is slowly improving, millions of Zimbabweans are still dependent on food aid and disease outbreaks only compound the situation. </p><p>It seems crass to promote golf and travel to Zimbabwe but the reality is that golf has been played here since the early white settlers arrived in the 19th century. The first official golf club was founded in Bulawayo in 1895 and there are around 50 golf courses in Zimbabwe today. The best courses are located in Harare and we’ll be keeping a watchful eye on the Zimbabwean situation and fingers crossed hoping things continue to improve.</p> |
1 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Africa |
56 | 2018-09-01 04:47:46 | Afghanistan | <p> Afghanistan was once a friendly country when visitors were inclined to chill out after a quick lungful of the local hashish. Sadly things have changed. Afghanistan is still a highly volatile country but there is some sign of hope. </p><p> There is only golf course in Afghanistan and it's a nine-holer. The site on which the Kabul Golf Club stands was once the scene of clashes between rival Mujahideen factions in the 1990s. It remained firmly shut when the Taleban swept to power. Golf, a game they associated with wealthy Western diplomats, was one of many sports they banned. When Kabul Golf Club reopened it cost £30 for annual membership or approximately $5 per round (18-holes). </p><p>Ironically, this course was ranked No.91 in Golf World’s 2005 tongue-in-cheek World Top 100 list. Landmines, rocket launchers and Soviet Tanks were removed from the course to make it playable. We can’t vouch for the quality of Kabul Golf Club today and we doubt it will ever feature in one of our World Top 100s, but it may be an unforgettable adventure. Read more here</a></p> |
2 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Asia |
57 | 2018-09-01 04:48:11 | Bangladesh | <p>Bangladesh is special, with passionate people and rich history. Located at the mouth of the Bay of Bengal, where it borders India on all sides with the exception of a small border with Myanmar. Bangladesh seems to hit the headlines after regular natural calamities such as cyclones and flooding. The adverse weather has kept the tourists at bay and therefore Bangladesh remains free from commercialisation. With one of the world’s longest beaches, a 2000-year-old archaeological site and a fantastic national park with wildlife ranging from crocodiles and dolphins to the Bengal Tiger, Bangladesh has much to offer. It can be wet during the monsoon season which once more places Bangladesh at the mercy of the weather.</p><p>Golf in Bangladesh has yet to find a passionate following, unlike cricket. But, according to the Bangladesh Golf Federation, there are 14 Bangladeshi golf courses and perhaps one of the best is located in the colourful capital of Dhaka. The 2006 Bangladesh Amateur Golf Championship was held at the newly fashioned Kurmitola Golf Club and we are aware of courses at Bhatiary Golf and Country Club and Savar Golf Club but we can’t make any recommendations because we simply don’t know enough about golf in Bangladesh. If you can help, we’d love to hear from you.</p> |
2 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Asia |
58 | 2018-09-01 04:48:26 | Bhutan | <p>The Kingdom of Bhutan is nestled in the eastern Himalayas. This mountainous country is a spiritual place where many saints and mystics have made the long pilgrimage to bless the Bhutanese people and their land. The Bhutanese treasure their beautiful, natural environment and consequently Bhutan is guarded, with tourism and foreign influences regulated by the government to ensure that their Buddhist culture is preserved. With breathtaking scenery and stunning architecture in the shape of monasteries, chapels and precious Buddhist sites, Bhutan is a place of real magic and humble majesty and we hope it will always stay that way.</p><p>Do you need to pack your golf clubs? The short answer is yes. Even His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck plays golf. In fact the King has his own private layout on his property in Punhaka but you’ll naturally need a royal invite to play it. The only golf course open to the public is at Royal Thimphu Golf Club</a>. All other Bhutanese courses are located at military bases. So if you fancy golf on top of the world at serious altitude, remember to take your clubs to Royal Thimphu.</p> |
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59 | 2018-09-01 04:48:47 | Brunei Darussalam | <p>Negara Brunei Darussalam, to give Brunei its full title, is located on the island of Borneo (the third largest island in the world), but Brunei is a mere speck, surrounded by Malaysia and the South China Sea. Although very small, the sultanate of Brunei is one of the world’s richest oil states. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is quite a wealthy man too, once topping the world rich list with an estimated fortune of a $40 billion. Brunei, the gateway to Borneo, is a tea-total, alcohol-free country, so if you fancy a tipple you’ll have to pop across the border into neighbouring Malaysia. Jerudong Theme Park is the most commercially developed tourist attraction but if you want to get away from it all, the Belalong National Park takes some beating with its jungle and rainforest walks.</p><p>Despite its diminutive size, Brunei has six golf courses from which to choose and most are set against a rainforest backdrop or the glistening South China Sea (or both). Royal Brunei Golf & Country Club</a> is the “Augusta of Asia”, according to Ronald Fream its designer and the Pantai Mentiri Golf Club</a> which overlooks Brunei Bay is a nice test. Golf was first played in Brunei at Panaga in the 1920s, although the golf club was not inaugurated until 1934. The pick of Brunei's courses is the Jack Nicklaus-designed layout at the extravagant 5 star Empire Hotel & Country Club</a>, which is a rather impressive “monument to luxury”.</p> |
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60 | 2018-09-01 04:48:56 | Cambodia | <p>Cambodia has seen its fair share of problems but the country is getting back on its feet and back on the travel map. Located in southeast Asia, Cambodia has been occupied by many, consequently there’s an eclectic mixture of architecture and influence which can be seen in the French Colonial buildings in Phnom Penh for example. After the end of the Civil War during the 1980s things are finally settling down and long may it continue.</p><p>Naturally golf in Cambodia is relatively thin on the ground but we are aware of few golf clubs, several of which are located within a reasonable distance of the capital, Phnom Penh. Cambodia Golf and Country Club is home to the country’s first course which was opened for play in 1996 and the Royal Cambodia Golf Club came along in 2004.</p><p>In 2006, the new 7,145-yard Phokeethra Country Club</a> in Siem Reap opened for play, bringing a world-class course to Cambodia and a tourism boost to the stunning area famous for its 1,000-year-old Angkor temples. In 2008, the Nick Faldo-designed layout at Angkor Resort</a> was unveiled, raising Siem Reap's golfing bar even higher.</p><p>The best course that's located reasonably close to the capital is Garden City Golf Club</a>, which opened in 2013. Further afield in Koh Kong on the Gulf of Thailand coast, we're keeping an eye on the developments at the Dara Sakor Resort, where 54 golf holes are planned. The first course, called the Ocean, is already open.</p><p> Our Cambodian Top 5</a> rankings were last updated in January 2017. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
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61 | 2018-09-01 04:49:07 | China | <p>China is a world rather than a country. You will need a great deal of time and money to travel thoroughly around this cultural centre of Eastern Asia and the world’s fourth largest country. It is just as well that China is big because it’s home to a great many people – this is the world’s most populous country. We have much more than the Chinese Takeaway for which to thank them. Paper money began here in China, along with gunpowder and credit banking. Where might China be now if it wasn’t for the authoritarianism of Chairman Mao? Perhaps without Mao, China would boast at least as many golf courses as the USA, but the reality is that golf outside Hong Kong is a relatively new sport and the Republic's golfing heritage reaches back only a few decades. </p><p>We’re not too sure exactly when the Golf Association of the Republic of China was founded, but the game of golf here in the east is still the preserve of the wealthy. Nevertheless, China has the world’s biggest golf club at Mission Hills, perched high on the Hong Kong border. This 216-hole super club has twelve courses (seven at Shenzhen and five at Dongguan), all of which have been designed by world-renowned architects from five continents. Els, Faldo, Norman, Duval, Ozaki, Leadbetter, Olazábal and Nicklaus have all signed their name indelibly at Mission Hills. But the best layouts in the Mission Hills twenty-two course portfolio are actually located at Haikou on Hainan Island, where the Schmidt-Curley Design team fashioned each of the ten courses.</p><p>We last updated our China Top 50</a> rankings in December 2017. Click the link to read the story.<br></p><p>Crackdown on Golf in China</a></p> |
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62 | 2018-09-01 04:49:15 | Hong Kong | <p>The former British colony of Hong Kong is still near the top of many people’s “must-visit world city” lists. With a population of nearly seven million people, Hong Kong is an energetic, noisy and vibrant urban space with a plethora of tastes and smells. The view of towering buildings against the backdrop of deeply forested mountains is one of many unforgettable images conjured up by Hong Kong. Factor in some serious shopping followed by a bowl of noodles and you could be in your perfect heaven. But should you pack your golf clubs? The short answer is a resounding yes! </p><p>Golf in Hong Kong dates back more than 100 years and the Royal Hong Kong Golf Club can trace its roots way back to 1889, which places the club among an elite group of the 100 oldest clubs in the world. Royal Hong Kong Golf Club (now more simply known as The Hong Kong Golf Club</a>) is certainly historical and no trip for any golf aficionado would be complete without securing a tee time at one of the club's three Fanling courses. Oh yes, we’d almost forgotten to mention that there are eight other courses in Hong Kong, so there’s no shortage of golf in the region.</p><p>Our Hong Kong rankings were last updated in December 2017.<br></p> |
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63 | 2018-09-01 04:49:29 | India | <p>Golf in India goes back a long way. In fact, it goes back a very long way because the first golf club established outside the British Isles was Royal Calcutta (originally named Dum Dum Golfing Club) in 1829. The now defunct Royal Bombay Golf Club followed in 1842 then Cosmopolitan Club and Bangalore Golf Club were founded during the 1870s. Madras Gymhkana was formed in 1884 before places like Shillong and Royal Western India appeared around the turn of the century.</p><p>On the tournament front, the All-India Amateur Championship was first held in 1892 so it’s said to be the second oldest international golf event in the world (after the Open) because it preceded the US Open by three years. More recently, the Indian Open was inaugurated in 1964, when Peter Thomson won the first of his three Indian titles, and it’s been a co-sanctioned event on the European Tour since 2015.</p><p>The Indian Golf Union</a> was founded by six clubs – Bombay Presidency, Delhi, Madras Gymkhana, Royal Calcutta, Tollygunge and Willingdon Sports Club – in 1955 and this national governing body now tends to the administrative needs of more than two hundred clubs around the country. It’s one of 149 organizations affiliated to the International Golf Federation, sending teams to compete in the World Amateur Team Championships every two years. </p><p>On the professional side of things, the Professional Golf Tour of India was formed in 2006 and this body, with more than 300 professional golfers as members, now organises around 25 tournaments a year within the country. Incredibly, at the end of 2016, 22 Indian professionals had won no fewer than 75 international events around the world, with Jeev Milka Singh leading the way on 13 victories, followed by Arjun Atwal on 10 wins.</p><p>Diversity is the keyword for golf in India; from desert plains to the tea estates and Hill Stations in terms of terrain, from traditional parkland to modern resort golf regarding layouts. Some courses, such as Madras Gymkhana in Chennai, are located inside a horse racing track and others, like Patna in Bihar and Bhatinda in Punjab, are situated close to wildlife compounds – the 1st fairway at Patna lies next to the lion enclosure at the nearby zoo and there’s a protected deer paddock inside the Bhatinda layout.</p><p>Of course, while there’s still a place for old-fashioned quirk in Indian golf – be it the magnificent sight of the Qutub Minar brick minaret backdropping the west side of the Qutub course in New Delhi or, twenty kilometres further east, the Battle of Delhi monument on the 16th tee at the Noida course – there remains plenty of scope for new designs to flourish in modern residential developments where the international brands of Nicklaus, Norman and Player lead the way. </p><p>Our Indian Top 20</a> rankings were last updated in March 2018. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
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64 | 2018-09-01 04:49:35 | Indonesia | <p>Almost 18,000 islands make up the country of Indonesia and the island of Java is one of the most populated regions in the world. The geology of Indonesia subjects these islands to the greatest volcanic activity on earth but many visitors are attracted here and for good reason: the laid-back lifestyle, sun-kissed beaches and some of the world’s most incredible ancient temples.</p><p>Indonesia has so much to offer and it will definitely satisfy all types of travellers with its rich and gentle culture. Indonesia really is a heavenly place on earth. With almost 150 golf courses to choose from, Indonesia is also a heavenly place for golfers. </p><p>Many of the courses are in the resort mould with the majority of foreign golfers heading for the tropical island of Bali where there are five very good 9-hole and 18-hole layouts, including the once glorious Greg Norman layout at Nirwana Bali Golf Club</a>, which is currently closed for a complete remodel. </p><p>But if you find yourself in Papua on the western half of New Guinea then you must check out Rimba Irian</a>, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw’s remotest design, which is literally located in the middle of a rainforest jungle.</p><p>Our Indonesian Top 30</a> rankings were last updated in March 2018. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
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65 | 2018-09-01 04:49:43 | Japan | <p>Japan is a country of surprises, formality, exemplary manners, reliable cars, sumo wrestling and sushi. The Japanese people are also proud of their four seasons, which can be quite extreme in terms of weather conditions. This is why many Japanese courses have dual greens, one for summer and one for winter. </p><p>Japan consists of four main islands, Hokkaido in the north, Honshu, the main island, Shikoku and southernmost Kyushu. Additionally, there are many smaller islands, notably Okinawa. </p><p>There are more golf courses in Japan than the rest of Asia put together. With nearly 2,500 courses (and many more driving ranges), the Japanese are serious golf lovers and they have built some of the world’s finest courses. The entire tapestry and the full legacy of Japanese golf courses is hard to unravel, but thanks to our contributors from the Land of the Rising Sun, we are able to showcase a selection of the finest courses in the country.</p><p>We updated Japan's rankings in March 2018. Full details are here: Top 50 Golf Courses of Japan 2018</a><br></p> |
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66 | 2018-09-01 04:49:53 | Kazakhstan | <p>Kazakhstan is the ninth largest nation in the world and covers a massive 2.7 million square kilometres, an equivalent size to Western Europe. Part of the former Soviet Union, Kazakhstan has been brought into the western limelight by the comedian Sasha Baron Cohen (the creator of Ali G.) and his controversial character Borat. The Kazakhstan Foreign Ministry did not receive Borat with open arms but, without this character, western knowledge of Kazakhstan surely wouldn’t be what it is today!</p><p> With remote and wild nature reserves, which are important habitats for the elusive snow leopard and breathtaking scenery, Kazakhstan is a world apart from the west. But what do we know? We’re not entirely sure whether Kazakhstan officially sits in Asia or Europe. Let’s just say it’s in Eurasia. </p><p>So, the big question you must be now be asking yourself is whether or not you need to pack your golf clubs? Well, you may be surprised to hear that Kazakhstan does have a handful of courses and Nurtau Golf Club</a> is a feature on the European Challenge Tour. </p> |
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67 | 2018-09-01 04:50:03 | Kyrgyzstan | <p>We can’t find a great deal to say about Kyrgyzstan, which is a small, landlocked and mountainous country situated in central Asia. It is home to the world’s second largest mountain lake and the country has heavy winter snowfall that can lead to serious flooding further downstream in the spring. We’re certain that there’s much more to Kyrgyzstan than mountains and snow so we’d love to hear from you if you have any interesting insider snippets of information.</p><p>The Maple Leaf Golf Club sounds very Canadian to us, so it came as no surprise to find out that it was inaugurated by a few Canuck expats. It’s naturally located towards the mountains a few miles outside the capital Bishkek and this nine holer opened for play in 2002. We’d love to know more, so if you can throw any light on the relative merits of the Maple Leaf course we’d love to hear from you.</p> |
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68 | 2018-09-01 04:50:14 | Laos | <p>Laos, the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, has a thickly forested and mountainous landscape with its tropical climate characterised by monsoon and dry seasons. Almost a quarter of the country’s land has been set aside as conservation areas which may be developed in the future into National Parks. Officially called Lao People's Democratic Republic, the people of Laos celebrate many festivals throughout the year and the country is well known for its population of elephants, its slow pace and its relaxed and friendly people.</p><p>Golf in Asia is on the increase and there are seven golf courses in Laos that we know about. One of the best of the 18-hole layouts is billed as the most picturesque golf course in Laos and the 6,503-metre course is located at the Dansavanh Nam Ngum Resort</a>, which is perhaps more famous for its casino. Long Thanh-Vientiane Golf Club</a> promises to raise the golfing bar in Laos with 18 holes open for play and a further 18 in construction. There are 18 holers at the Lao Country Club (formerly Youth Garden Golf Course), at Luang Prabang Golf Club</a> and at Lao Inter Golf Club. There are also two 9-hole layouts at the Vientiane Golf Club (designed by RTJ Jnr) and at Santisuk Lang Xang Golf Club. </p><p>We’ll keep a close eye on golf in Laos, but please contact us if you know more about golf in the Land of a Million Elephants. </p><p>Our Laos Top 5</a> rankings were last updated in January 2017. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
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69 | 2018-09-01 04:50:18 | Malaysia | <p>There are two discreet parts to Malaysia which are separated by the South China Sea – East Malaysia and West Malaysia. Both territories have similar geographical features, with sweeping coastal plains and densely forested mountain interiors but it’s the country’s multicultural, multi-ethnic and multilingual attributes, along with a broad range of diverse cultural and gastronomic customs, that are most admired around the world. </p><p>The Malaysian economy is one of the most vibrant in all of Asia and its GDP has shown steady growth for decades now, with tourism reckoned to be the nation’s third largest source of foreign exchange income. Nevertheless, revenue from oil and gas still underpin the government’s annual budget via the national oil company Petronas, which operates from the tallest twin-tower structure in the world in downtown Kuala Lumpur. </p><p>The Malaysian Golf Association</a> dates back to 1928 and one of its main annual functions nowadays is to oversee the running of the Malaysian Amateur Open Golf Championship, an event that started out in 1894 as the Straits Championship. The quality of Malaysian courses is high and as we now feature what we consider to be the Top 40 golf courses in the country you’ll be well advised to pack your clubs if you’re planning a visit. </p><p>Our Malaysian Top 40</a> rankings were last updated in February 2018. Click the link to read the story.<br> </p> |
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70 | 2018-09-01 04:50:23 | Maldives | <p>The Maldives, the typical picture postcard islands with brilliant white sandy beaches, blue seas and honeymooners aplenty. These coral islands are situated in the Indian Ocean and only approximately 200 of more than 1,000 islands are inhabited. If you enjoy the idea of a tropical paradise with fabulous scuba diving opportunities as well, then the Maldives are definitely for you.</p><p>So, should you pack your golf clubs when you visit the Republic of Maldives? Well, believe it or not, golf first arrived at Lhaviyani Atoll in the shape of Kuredu Golf Club. This par three course has six holes, each averaging 55 yards in length, so you’ll merely need to pack your sand iron and putter! More recently, the Shangri-La Hotel on Villingili Island built a 9-hole course with holes averaging 130 yards. Pack a couple of short irons too.</p> |
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71 | 2018-09-01 04:50:33 | Mongolia | <p>The Republic of Mongolia is a landlocked East Asian country, once the centre of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century. Mongolia was later ruled by China before independence was found with Soviet help in the 1920s. You’ll feel like you have stepped back a century in time with Genghis Khan because Mongolia is throwback to bygone days when life was much, much simpler. </p><p>Naturally, golf has yet to find its niche here in Mongolia, although there is a 9-hole golf course at Genghis Khan Country Club in the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park and in 2013 Mt. Bogd Golf Club</a> at the Sky Ski Resort opened, Mongolia's first 18-holer. However, according to Andre Tolme, Mongolia is one enormous golf course. Between May 2003 and July 2004 Andre became the first person to hit a golf ball across Mongolia’s 1,200+ miles. Mad? We’ll let you decide.</p> |
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72 | 2018-09-01 04:50:45 | Myanmar | <p>Republic of the Union of Myanmar – better known as Burma – is a country of diversity and many different languages. Myanmar was long considered an outcast nation due to its military coup in 1962 and the sickening human rights record that followed. Nowadays Myanmar is slowly reforming and decades of international isolation drew to a close in 2012, due in no small part to the democracy fighter, Aung San Suu Kyi. </p><p>As a former outpost of the British Empire there are plenty of golf courses in Myanmar with most of the better layouts situated close to Yangon, the capital city. The potential for wonderful golfing holidays in Burma is enormous and the country is waiting to be rediscovered. </p><p>We’d like to understand the full potential of golf in Myanmar – some reports suggest that there are as many as 80 golf courses in the country – so if you can throw any more light on the subject, we’d love to hear from you. We feel the best course in Myanmar was designed by Gary Player. Pun Hlaing Golf Club</a> is located to the northwest of Rangoon and if you've played it, please write a review.</p> |
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73 | 2018-09-01 04:50:50 | Nepal | <p>Nepal is the roof of the world and the backbone of the Himalayas, a place of breathtaking scenic splendour, hiking and ancient temples. It’s a mystical and dreamy country that draws people back year after year. Perhaps it’s the crisp clean air, dramatic mountains or the spirituality of Nepal? Regardless, Nepal is one of the world’s most uplifting and most special places on earth. So should you pack your golf shoes as well as your walking boots? </p><p>A few years ago, the answer to that question might possibly have been no, even though golf in Nepal dates back to 1917, after senior Nepalese dignitaries returned from Scotland with some golf clubs in tow. In 1999 a new resort near Kathmandu opened and for this reason alone you should definitely pack your clubs. </p><p>The course at the Gokarna Forest Golf Resort</a> was fashioned by the illustrious David McLay Kidd, designer of the magnificent Bandon Dunes. Gorkarna Forest is perhaps the finest 18-hole golf course in South Asia but the Himalayan Golf Club in Pokhara is perhaps Asia’s finest 9-holer and home to one of Asia’s best and most dramatic par fives.</p> |
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74 | 2018-09-01 04:50:59 | North Korea | <p>North Korea is relatively untouched in terms of tourism, which is unusual for a country that has so much to offer. With a troubled past and an uncertain future, North Korea is not likely to become a tourist hot-spot in the near future. The North Korean authoritarian government in the 1950s prohibited religion but if you do manage to obtain a visitor’s permit, Paekdu is a sight that is hard to miss. It’s the North Korea’s highest mountain, it is in fact an extinct volcano with a vast central crater and it’s of deep mythical importance. </p><p>Naturally golf is not the most popular sport in North Korea, but the country does have one notable course. Pyongyang Golf Course</a> is where the first North Korean Open was held a few years ago and it was a decade or so ago that the nation's reclusive leader Kim Jong II is said to have shot a 38-under-par round of 34 in his one and only round of golf which included five holes-in-one. Step aside please Mr Bubba Watson!</p> |
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75 | 2018-09-01 04:51:08 | Pakistan | <p>Unless you are a cricket fan or have Pakistani roots, it’s probable that you don’t know much about beautiful Pakistan with its majestic mountains and its long, long history, which dates back some 2,000 years BC. With landscapes that will lift the soul and warm, friendly and hospitable people, Pakistan has every right to be better understood by the West.</p><p>Golf does not yet rival the national sport of cricket but it is certainly growing in popularity. According to the Pakistan Golf Federation</a> there are more than 5,000 registered golf club members, which ply their craft on the country’s 30 or so courses. </p><p>We'd simply like to know more about golf in Pakistan, so if you can throw any light on the history and heritage of Pakistani courses which date back to the 19th century, we’d love to hear from you.</p><p>Our Pakistan rankings were last updated in December 2016.<br></p> |
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76 | 2018-09-01 04:51:16 | Philippines | <p>The Philippine Archipelago comprises of more than 7,000 beautiful islands and the tropical landscape is diverse with active volcanoes, stunning beaches, coral waters and rain forests. In 1898, the Philippines was colonised by the USA and consequently English is widely spoken across the country. Although Manila is the Filipino capital city, Davao City is about three times larger. </p><p>According to the Golf Around the World report published by the R & A in 2015, there are 94 golf facilities in the Philippines, but only around half are registered with the National Golf Association of the Philippines</a>. We’re unclear why so many Filipino golfing facilities remain unregistered with the National Golf Association. A possible reason for this is that many facilities slot into the resort category and therefore golf is purely for tourists. Another theory, tabled by Mark, suggested that clubs don't get enough from the affiliation with the National Association. If you know more we’d love to hear from you.</p><p>There are many fine courses within the Philippine archipelago and we now feature almost a third of the nation's best golf facilities. </p><p>Our Philippines Top 30</a> rankings were last updated in January 2017. Click the link to read the story.</p> |
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77 | 2018-09-01 04:51:29 | Singapore | <p>The Republic of Singapore is one of only four remaining city-states in the world; the others are Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City. Located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore is one of the safest, most progressive and enjoyable tropical cities in Southeast Asia. </p><p>The Singapore Golf Association</a> was founded in 1961 and its first AGM was held at the Royal Island Club. From these relatively recent and humble beginnings, there are now thirteen golf clubs in ordinary membership of the Singapore Golf Association, with ten associate members and five affiliate members.</p><p>Many Singaporean golf clubs boast more than one course and perhaps Singapore’s finest and most exclusive is the 36-hole Sentosa Golf Club with its fabulous Serapong course</a> playing host to the annual Singapore Open, which Sentosa continue to market as “Asia’s Major”.</p><p> We certainly think we’ve done Singapore proper justice as we now highlight around half of the country's golf courses.</p><p>Our Singapore Top 15</a> rankings were last updated in February 2018. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
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78 | 2018-09-01 04:51:37 | South Korea | <p>South Korea is a mountainous country with dozens of National and Provincial Parks that are renowned for their natural beauty and ancient temples. Given South Korea’s mountainous terrain, it's surprising that the country can boast more than 500 golf courses, so there’s plenty of action going on to keep the travelling golfer happy. Factor in a rich cultural heritage and a number of historic and religious festivals celebrated throughout the year and you have a truly exciting country. </p><p>K.J. Choi was a role model for thousands of Asian golfers, but golf in South Korea took off like a rocket after Yang Yong-eun, or Y.E. Yang as he is better known, became the first male player born in Asia to win a major. Yang literally lit the Asian golfing touch paper after winning the 2009 PGA Championship at Hazeltine National. </p><p>Of course, South Korean female golfers have dominated the ladies' professional game for a number of years now, contributing around 40% of the women in the official World Top 100 rankings at any given time. Inbee Park may not always retain the number 1 ranking but who would bet against her failing to add more Major titles to the seven that she'd already captured by the end of 2015?</p><p>Our South Korean Top 40</a> rankings were last updated in March 2018. Click the link to read the story.</p><p><br><br></p> |
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79 | 2018-09-01 04:51:45 | Sri Lanka | <p>The name Sri Lanka comes from the two Sankrit words for “venerable island” and this country of 20 million people lies to the southwest of the Bay of Bengal, separated from the Indian subcontinent by the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Strait. Sri Lanka, or Ceylon as it was formerly known, gained independence from Britain in 1948 but the nation has enjoyed little stability in recent times as a civil war raged between the government and Tamil Tigers militants from 1983 to 2009.</p><p>Cricket is by far the most popular sport in the country but golf does find a place in the affections of both locals and visitors and there are three golf courses to play. Sri Lankans can tee it up at a pair of old classics at Royal Colombo</a> and Nuwara Eliya</a> or at the more modern, Donald Steel-designed, Victoria</a>.</p> |
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80 | 2018-09-01 04:51:57 | Taiwan | <p>Taiwan may not be at the top of the “must-visit” list for many travellers, but the Portuguese were the first Westerners to discover Taiwan and they immediately named it Ilha Formosa – Beautiful Island – for very good reasons. An exceptionally diverse landscape coupled with vibrant cities like Taipei ensures that anyone travelling to Taiwan will experience one of Asia’s most exciting and diverse destinations.</p><p>The Japanese brought golf to Taiwan and the country’s oldest club, Taiwan Golf & Country Club</a>, dates back to 1918 but Taiwanese professional golfers did not show their international potential until Liang Huan Lu battled with Lee Trevino in the final round of the 1971 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale</a>. Lu eventually finished in 2nd place, one-shot behind Trevino. There are now around 70 golf courses in Taiwan and golf is one of the most popular Taiwanese sports.</p><p>Our Taiwanese rankings were last updated in June 2017. </p> |
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81 | 2018-09-01 04:52:03 | Tajikistan | <p>Located deep into Central Asia, Tajikistan became independent of the Soviet Union in 1991 but the nation became embroiled almost immediately into a costly civil war that lasted all of five years and claimed more than 50,000 lives. Today, the country is a safe and stable place to visit and one of its eco-tourist options, travelling the high-altitude Pamir Highway, is regarded by intrepid travellers as one of the world’s greatest road trips.</p><p>As far as golf facilities are concerned, there’s meant to be a club named Sogdiana in the capital city of Dushanbe but we’ve been unable to find out anything about it. We’d be grateful for any information that you may have about this course as our inquiries - which include contacting the Tajikistan Embassy in London - have so far drawn a blank.</p> |
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82 | 2018-09-01 04:52:09 | Thailand | <p>The exotic Kingdom of Thailand lies at the heart of Southeast Asia and for many visitors Thailand is closer to a life-changing experience than a vacation. Nothing prepares you for the cultural phenomenon of the capital city, Bangkok. There’s something for everyone in the steamy, cosmopolitan metropolis, from ancient temples, Thai massages, tuk-tuks, kickboxing, nightlife and eclectic markets that stimulate all the senses. You'll also find around 60 golf courses in close proximity to the capital.</p><p>The country is divided into four natural regions; the mountainous area of the Thai Highlands to the north, the Khorat Plateau to the northeast, the mainly flat Chao Phraya river valley in the middle of the country and the narrow Kra Isthmus to the south, which widens into the Malay Peninsula. Such is the geographical diversity of Thailand, it can be truly said that each and every course – from Santiburi</a> in the north to Red Mountain</a> in the south – is uniquely designed. </p><p>Thailand’s golfing heritage dates back to 1923 when King Vajiravudh The Great became interested in golf and agreed to the construction of Royal Hua Hin Golf Course. The Thailand Golf Association</a> dates back to 1964 and it set about organising the Thailand Open for professional golfers the following year. It took twenty-seven editions of the flagship competition before a native golfer, Suthep Meesawat, claimed the national title in 1991. Extraordinarily, his winning performance was matched the following year by another Thai pro, Boonchu Ruangkit, who would go on to win the event again in 2004.</p><p>There are reckoned to be over two hundred and fifty golf courses in Thailand and it’s our intention to showcase the very best of these. We inaugurated a Thai Top 10 in 2009 and since then we’ve continued to add more courses, creating a Top 30 chart in 2012, a Top 40 listing in 2015 and now a Top 50 at the start of 2017. We’ve also split the country into three regions, maintaining separate ranking lists for each one, which allows us to feature a total of sixty Thai tracks.</p><p> Our Thailand Top 50 rankings</a> were last updated in January 2017. Click the link to read the story. <br></p> |
2 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Asia |
83 | 2018-09-01 04:52:12 | Timor-Leste | <p>The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste – more commonly called East Timor – is a small country of 5,400 square miles in southeast Asia comprising the eastern half of the island of Timor, along with several nearby islands and an enclave within Indonesian West Timor. </p><p>Colonised by the Portuguese in the mid-18th century, Timor Leste declared independence in 1975, a move that precipitated an invasion of the country by the Indonesian military. The UN eventually stepped in to restore order, leading to a situation where the country’s modern day population of around a million people now enjoys a more tranquil existence. </p><p>Popular sports in Timor-Leste with accredited administration bodies include athletics, badminton, cycling, weightlifting, table tennis and football. Sadly, the game of golf doesn’t yet rate a mention but maybe one of these days, you never know.</p> |
2 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Asia |
84 | 2018-09-01 04:52:30 | Turkmenistan | <p>Once part of the kingdom of ancient Persia, Turkmenistan fell under Russian rule in the 1920s and formed part of the former Soviet Union. Turkmenistan’s independence followed the collapse of the Soviet Union and the country remains a key player in world energy having the third largest reserve of natural gas.</p><p>Much of the country comprises of the Karakum (Black Sands) Desert and the land to the west of the country bordering the Caspian Sea might seem ideal for golf. If you are planning a trip to Turkmenistan you probably won’t need to take your clubs, as there are currently no golf courses to our knowledge in Turkmenistan.</p> |
2 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Asia |
85 | 2018-09-01 04:52:32 | Uzbekistan | <p>One of only two doubly landlocked countries in the whole world, Uzbekistan is situated on the ancient Great Silk Road between Europe and Asia. Part of the Soviet Union until 1991, the country has plentiful reserves of gold, uranium, oil and natural gas and most of these natural resources are exported to earn much sought after foreign income for the government. </p><p>You’ll find the only 18-hole golf course in Uzbekistan at Tashkent Lakeside Golf Club</a>, 11 miles south east of the capital city. Opened in 1998, the eighteen fairways at this facility are routed around a couple of large lakes on a generous 265-acre property. </p> |
2 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Asia |
86 | 2018-09-01 04:52:55 | Vietnam | <p>Officially known as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the Vietnamese nation has emerged strongly following 30 years of war, which thankfully ended in the mid-1970s. The country now enjoys strong economic growth, and with its long South China Sea coastline and river deltas, the country can now focus on its pure and natural beauty. With divine beaches, towering mountains and vibrant cities, it is no wonder that Vietnam is fast becoming one of the world’s most exciting destinations. </p><p>In 2007, at Kings' Island Golf Club</a>, the Vietnam Golf Association was formed and there are now more than 5,000 registered Vietnamese golfers, but the vast majority are either foreigners or ex-pats. Vietnam now boasts around forty golf courses, with many more in the construction stages. With its varied topography and long coastline, Vietnam has become a serious golfing country.</p><p>Our Vietnamese Top 25</a> rankings were last updated in February 2018. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
2 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Asia |
87 | 2018-09-01 04:53:00 | England | <p>When the unmarried Queen Elizabeth I of England died in 1603, James VI of Scotland moved court to London, taking up residence at the Royal Palace in Greenwich becoming James I of England. His royal entourage is thought to have contained a number of golfers and they found the perfect ground at Blackheath on which to play their beloved game. In 1608 Blackheath Golf Club</a> was instituted, but documentary evidence has yet to be discovered.</p><p>Today there are approximately 700,000 golfers affiliated to England’s 1,900 or so golf clubs. There are more golf courses in England than Ireland, Scotland and Wales put together. The topographical variation of England’s golf courses is perhaps totally unique the world over but the vast majority of overseas visitors head to Scotland and Ireland rather than choosing to play golf in England. We think the English Tourist Board are missing an opportunity. To see our latest Top 100 Golf Courses of England, simply scroll down this page. </p><p>We last updated our England Top 100</a> rankings in November 2017. Click the link to read the story.</p> |
3 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Britain & Ireland |
88 | 2018-09-01 04:53:11 | Guernsey | <p>The Bailiwick of Guernsey comprises a number of islands, the largest of which is Guernsey and it’s geographically much closer to France than the UK. Guernsey is self-governing and loyal to the British crown, dating back to Norman times when all of the Channel Islands became part of England. </p><p>Guernsey’s tax haven status has meant that many financial institutions are established here. The traditional trades of flower growing, fishing and dairy farming are the primary drivers of Guernsey's economy but space is at a premium on this small island and therefore golf is not a major part of its attraction for visitors. </p><p>Guernsey has only two and a half courses in total – the first is Royal Guernsey</a> course, which is shared by two organisations, Royal Guernsey Golf Club and the L'Ancresse Golf Club. The second is the par 68 La Grande Mare Hotel Golf Course, designed by Fred Hawtree, and finally there's a 9-hole golf course at the St Pierre Park Hotel, designed by former Jersey</a> resident – Tony Jacklin.</p> |
3 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Britain & Ireland |
89 | 2018-09-01 04:53:16 | Ireland | <p>During the nineteenth century the Republic of Ireland, or Éire, was part of the United Kingdom and records state that British troops brought golf to the Emerald Isle in the 1850s. The oldest golf course in the Republic of Ireland is set on the heathland of the Curragh in County Kildare and there are records of a match being played there in 1852. </p><p>The Curragh Golf Club (now Royal Curragh Golf Club</a> after the club finally decided in 2013 to use the royal title that was granted in 1910) was founded in 1858, twenty-three years before the formation of Royal Belfast</a> (1881) and twenty-seven years before the formation of Royal Dublin</a> (1885). </p><p>Golf in Ireland possibly dates back beyond the nineteenth century but records are scant. However, there is no doubt whatsoever that Ireland possesses many of the finest golf courses in the world and is quite rightly one of the premier golf destinations thanks to household names such as Ballybunion</a>, Lahinch</a> and Portmarnock</a>.</p><p>We created an inaugural Ireland Top 100 in 2006 and so far no other publication has assembled a Top 100 for Éire, although a number of golf magazines have produced Top 100 lists for the Republic and Northern Ireland combined.</p><p>We updated the Republic of Ireland's Top 100 in October 2017. Full details are here: Top 100 Golf Courses of the Republic of Ireland</a> </p> |
3 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Britain & Ireland |
90 | 2018-09-01 04:53:23 | Isle of Man | <p>Located in the heart of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man is a self-governing British Crown dependency, home to approximately 75,000 people and eight 18-hole golf courses. </p><p> Apart from being a tax haven for UK residents, there are two main things a visiting golfer needs to know about the Isle of Man… Manx cats are born without tails (the local population are not needlessly cruel to animals) and golfers should check their travel dates carefully to avoid clashing with the world famous TT. TT week, which is usually late May or early June, sees the island transformed into motorcycle Mecca for the world’s greatest road race festival. </p><p>The mild Isle of Man weather makes year-round golfing possible and the stunning views and rugged coastline will make even the worst game seem tolerable, even if you are rather exposed to winds that whip across the Irish Sea. There are eight clubs affiliated to the Isle of Man Golf Union</a> and the standard bearer is undeniably Castletown Golf Links</a> which is a strong contender for a ranking position within our Britain & Ireland Top 100.<br></p> |
3 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Britain & Ireland |
91 | 2018-09-01 04:53:45 | Jersey | <p>Jersey has been inhabited for more than 250,000 years, long before the melting of the icecaps made it an island in the English Channel. Raided by Vikings, ruled variously by the French, English and Germans (during WWII), the Bailiwick of Jersey is now an independent island, popular tourist destination and tax haven. </p><p>Slightly larger and flashier than its more staid Channel Island sibling, Guernsey, Jersey therefore has more to offer the visiting golfer. </p><p>There are six golf clubs affiliated to the Jersey Golf Union, three 18-hole golf courses (Royal Jersey Golf Club</a>, La Moye Golf Club</a> and Les Mielles Golf & Country Club) and three 9-hole courses (Les Ormes Golf Club, Wheatlands Hotel & Golf Course and St. Clement (Jersey) Golf Club). Not bad for an isle only 9 miles long and 5 miles wide. </p><p>Six-time Open Champion, Harry Vardon, is Jersey’s most famous golfing son and his statue can be seen at Royal Jersey Golf Club. “Don’t play too much golf. Two rounds a day are plenty.” Wise words from Vardon.</p> |
3 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Britain & Ireland |
92 | 2018-09-01 04:54:02 | Northern Ireland | <p>Northern Ireland may have been troubled by conflict in recent times but it’s one of the most beautiful home countries with stunning coastlines – some with causeways built by giants – sparkling lakes and misty mountains. But perhaps Northern Ireland’s most precious asset lies in the strength and quality of its golf courses. </p><p>Around 100 golf courses serve a population of less than 2 million people. Northern Ireland may be the least populated of the four UK countries but it is the proud owner of two world-class golf courses and many hidden gems. </p><p>We feature more than a quarter of Northern Ireland's courses, all of which deserve close examination. But if you doubt the country’s golf course pedigree you should start by taking a look at the two Royal thrillers at Portrush</a> and Newcastle</a>.</p><p>We updated our Northern Ireland golf course rankings</a> in October 2017. Click the link for full details.</p> |
3 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Britain & Ireland |
93 | 2018-09-01 04:54:15 | Scotland | <p>Golf has been part of the sporting landscape in Scotland since at least the 15th century when King James II banned the game by Act of Parliament in 1457 and there is mention of the game being played on a number of sites along the east side of the country during the 16th century, including Stirling</a> (1505), Carnoustie</a> (1527), Montrose</a> (1562) and St Andrews</a> (1574). Courses that developed at these locations, and many others that emerged along the eastern coastline, from Dornoch</a> in the north to Dunbar</a> in the south, still present a formidable challenge to golfers in the modern era.</p><p>By 1880, there were 42 courses in play around the country and that number doubled over the following decade at the start of a golf boom that would last for around 30 years. Incredibly, a further 200 courses emerged in the 20 years between 1890 and 1910 as the popularity of golf soared during a period of industrial growth. The next 70 years saw a slow and steady growth before the next golf boom of the 1980s and 90s, bringing the total number of golf courses in Scotland to around 500. That number has since risen to 578 at the end of 2016.</p><p>We updated Scotland's Top 100 in October 2017. Full details are here: Top 100 Golf Courses of Scotland</a><br></p> |
3 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Britain & Ireland |
94 | 2018-09-01 04:54:25 | Wales | <p> <br>The Welsh Tourist Board once promoted Wales as follows: “For the many who have tired of sun loungers… Wales. Home of proper holidays. Phrasebook optional, sense of adventure essential, indifference best left at home.” What can we add to that? Probably not much really, especially as Wales was firmly in the golfing spotlight in October 2010 when Newport hosted the Ryder Cup.</p><p>Celtic Manor Resort’s Twenty Ten course</a> was purpose-built for that event, which was not only a nail-biter, but also resulted in the first Monday finish in Ryder Cup history due to Friday’s play being washed out by torrential rain.</p><p>There are more than 140 golf courses in the country with associated clubs administered by the national governing body WalesGolf</a> and around twenty County Unions and Associations. We feature the best fifty Welsh golf courses and a few of these world-class layouts should be on every golfer’s “must-play” list.</p><p>The two Royals of Porthcawl</a> and St David’s</a> are perennially located near the top of the national rankings but there are plenty of other excellent courses, many of them hugging the long Welsh coastline, and these should also be sought out and savoured.</p><p>We updated our Welsh golf course rankings</a> in October 2017. Click the link for full details.<br></p> |
3 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Britain & Ireland |
95 | 2018-09-01 04:54:56 | Anguilla | <p>Anguilla is the most northerly of the British Leeward Islands and it is rapidly becoming an up-market and laid-back luxury Caribbean destination. With gleaming white sandy beaches, it’s easy to see why this small island is so popular with sun-seekers. Golf on Anguilla was confined to a simple rustic pitch and putt course but things have changed.</p><p> The Anguillian Golf Association meets annually at Roy’s Bayside Grill and the hot topic of discussion is the the new 18-hole Greg Norman designed course, which is laid out in the Rendezvous Bay area of Anguilla. Anguilla is now a golf destination in its own right. Acoording to the former operating company, "the Temenos Golf Club will offer players the ultimate golf experience in the Caribbean - a competitive course offering breathtaking views." We can't wait to play CuisinArt</a> as it's now called.</p><p>Our Caribbean and Atlantic Islands rankings</a> were last updated in February 2017. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
4 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Caribbean |
96 | 2018-09-01 04:55:07 | Antigua and Barbuda | <p>Antigua & Barbuda are two beautiful and contrasting Caribbean islands. Antigua is famous for it’s hurricane proof dockyard called English Harbour, which was first used to protect the warships of the Royal Navy in 1671. The fabled Frigate birds and the Caribbean’s largest rookery can be seen on neighbouring Barbuda.</p><p>There are two “proper” golf courses and both are situated near to St John’s on the island of Antigua: Cedar Valley</a> and Jolly Harbour</a>. If you plan to visit Antigua, with your clubs in tow, you really should try to play them both.</p><p>Our Caribbean and Atlantic Islands rankings</a> were last updated in February 2017. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
4 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Caribbean |
97 | 2018-09-01 04:55:17 | Aruba | <p>With all-year-round sunshine and stunning beaches, it will come as no surprise that Aruba is a popular holiday destination. This tiny island is located in the heart of the southern Caribbean just off the Venezuelan coast. With a population of approximately 100,000 people, made up of a broad international mix, this is a delightfully friendly country. </p><p>There are three golf courses on Aruba, two are 9-hole courses, Aruba Golf Club and The Links at Divi Aruba but the third, called Tierra del Sol</a>, is located at the northwest tip of the island and it’s definitely Aruba's first world-class golf course. See below to find out more about this Robert Trent Jones II layout.</p><p>Our Caribbean and Atlantic Islands rankings</a> were last updated in February 2017. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
4 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Caribbean |
98 | 2018-09-01 04:55:20 | Bahamas | <p>There are some 700 islands in the Bahamas archipelago and they stretch out through the Atlantic Ocean for more than 500 miles like a string of coral beads. Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and the city is located on New Providence Island where there are a number of fine golf courses with Albany</a> and the Ocean Club</a> heading the bill. </p><p>Grand Bahama Island boasts a couple of good layouts with Dick Wilson’s 1960s Lucayan golf course at the Grand Lucayan Resort leading the way but that layout is now closed, however the Robert Trent Jones II track at the resort’s Reef Club</a> is still open for play. </p><p>Stars of the Bahamian golf course show are located on the islands of Abaco and the tropical links of the Abaco Club</a> is simply an unforgettable experience. Baker's Bay</a> was laid out by Tom Fazio in 2010 and is set on a sliver of sandy shoreline on the west flank of Great Guana Cay and it's currently our No.1. But remember, if you plan to get around these islands by car, don’t forget that British road rules apply, so make sure you drive your car on the left! <br></p><p>Our Caribbean and Atlantic Islands rankings</a> were last updated in February 2017. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
4 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Caribbean |
99 | 2018-09-01 04:55:32 | Barbados | <p>Barbados is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands and despite being a mere dot on the world map it’s got huge character and is known as the 'Little England' of the Caribbean. With its sub-tropical climate and the cooling trade winds, Barbados is about as far away as you can get in terms of climate from the England across the other side of the Atlantic. But when you wander around Bridgetown, the capital, you might just for a moment believe you are in London with the Parliament Buildings, Trafalgar Square and even a statue of Lord Nelson. </p><p>In terms of golf, Barbados has some good golf courses with Sandy Lane boasting three layouts. Perhaps the most acclaimed is the Green Monkey</a>, which is reserved for the exclusive use of its guests. In 2006, Barbados became only the second Caribbean country in history to host the World Golf Championships World Cup. The Country Club</a> course at Sandy Lane was the chosen track for this prestigious event and the German team of Bernhard Langer and Marcel Siem claimed the trophy. <br></p><p>Our Caribbean and Atlantic Islands rankings</a> were last updated in February 2017. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
4 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Caribbean |
100 | 2018-09-01 04:55:44 | Bermuda | <p>No really. Bermuda is not in the Caribbean it's in the North Atlantic. In fact, Bermuda’s nearest neighbour is the "Graveyard of the Atlantic", better known as Cape Hatteras some 650 miles away in the State of North Carolina. </p><p>The North Atlantic islands of Bermuda (and indeed Bahamas) are not Caribbean islands, but we've placed Bermuda within our Caribbean region because the country seems to sit more comfortably here than anywhere else.<br></p><p>Shaped like a fishhook, Bermuda is only a couple of miles wide and about 20 miles long but it is in fact approximately 180 little islands, linked by bridges, and divided into nine picturesque parishes. Did you know that the town of St George, a World Heritage site, is the oldest English speaking colonial town still in existence? Bermuda also has amazing soft pink sand beaches. So kick off your shoes and don your Bermuda shorts, you are about to enjoy a little piece of Britain in the semi-tropical mid-Atlantic. </p><p>Naturally with so much British tradition, it will come as no surprise to hear that this tiny island is big on golf. According to the Bermuda Golf Association</a>, there are nine courses to choose from. We know that there are fine quality courses too, just waiting to be discovered and it's fitting that Bermuda's very best is called The Mid Ocean Club</a>.<br></p><p>Our Caribbean and Atlantic Islands rankings</a> were last updated in February 2017. Click the link to read the story.<br></p> |
4 | 2018-03-21 04:56:38 | Caribbean |
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