POCKET GUIDE G O L F

THAILAND
INCLUDING HOLE DESCRIPTIONS
& PLAYING TIPS

www.golfguidethailand.com

PAUL LEES PG 2011-12 EDITION

&M
Mike
ike SStaples
taplless

Australia A$17.60 (incl. GST) Europe €11 Singapore S$22.50 (incl. GST)
Thailand B450 UK £8.50 USA US$14.50 Sweden SEK105
 Tel: 66 (0) 7632 1929 – 34 Tel: 66 (0) 7632 2000 – 1
Reservations: info@lochpalm.com Reservations: info@redmountainphuket.com
www.lochpalm.com www.redmountainphuket.com
POCKET GUIDE... the Series PG
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 POCKET GUIDE
Golf Thailand

Cover photo and above: Mae Jo Golf Club and Resort, Chiang Mai

CONTENTS
Map of Thailand's golfing regions 12
About the author 14
About Pocket Guide GOLF thailand 16
Introduction to Thailand 18
Travelling to & around Thailand 26
Golfing in & around Thailand 38
Features
Health for golf 30
Living the golf lifestyle 32
Golf − a family game 48
Custom clubmakers 52
The 'Card Wreckers' − Top 18 holes 54
Thailand's 'Golfing Gems' − the caddies 60
Charity Golf 62
Golfing tips and tricks 64
Golfing regions – featured courses
Bangkok 66
Eastern Region 82
Khao Yai Region 92
Northern Region 100
Western Region 120
Hua Hin & Cha Am 128
Southern Region 152
Alphabetical index 170

Published by Sun Offa Beach Co., Ltd., 29/116 Moo 2, Chuan Chuen Lagoon,
T. Koh Kaew, A. Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand, in cooperation with Phuket
Publicity Services Part., Ltd. EDITOR: Wilai Suksalee.
info@golfguidethailand.com, www.golfguidethailand.com
PRINTER: Siam Offset Co., Ltd, 9/1 Soi Sriaksorn Tungmahamek, Bangkok 10120
©2011 Sun Offa Beach Co., Ltd and Phuket Publicity Services Part., Ltd.
All rights reserved. The contents of this book may not be reproduced or
copied in any form – printed, electronic, photocopy or otherwise – except
for excerpts used in reviews, without the written permission of the copyright
holders. Text & photography, copyright Paul Lees (unless otherwise stated in
the book). Design & layout, copyright Grenville Fordham.
10
 THAILAND
Golfing regions

MYANMAR
Chiang Rai
LAOS
Phaya
VIETNAM by Composite Catamarans
p100
Chiang Mai
N
GU

t
4MFFQT


Lamphang D
&63
 
4"*-"8":
Udon Thani
Sukhothai

Khon Kaen
THAILAND
Nakhon
Sawan
p120 p92 Nakhon
Ratchasima Ubon
Ratchatani
Saraburi
Kanchanaburi p66 Nakhon Nayok

Bangkok p82
Chonburi
p128 Cha Am Pattaya
Hua Hin Chantaburi CAMBODIA

Gulf of Thailand

Koh Samui ALSO AVAILABLE FOR CHARTER

Surat
Thani
p152
Krabi

Phuket

Andaman Sea
WEST MALAYSIA

Phang Nga

PHUKET
Na Thon Bo Phut
Thalang
Bang Tao Chaweng

Patong Kathu
Phuket City KOH SAMUI www.catamaransailingphuket.com
Kata
sales@catamaransailingphuket.com
Rawai mob. +66 (0) 81 797 9754, ph. +66 (0) 7626 4491
12
 ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mike Staples

M
ike Staples has lived and worked in Thailand since
1995. He retired from a career in banking in 2004
to “work on his handicap”. Mike now plays off a
handicap of 9.
He first played golf in Africa from the age of five with a cut
down hickory shafted 5 iron but played very sporadically
until taking the game up seriously in Thailand in 1996. He has
since played over 100 golf courses all round Thailand as well
as many courses in eight other countries on five different
continents.
Best described as a golf addict (withdrawal symptoms set
in after two days without a game), he plays extensively with
three of Thailand’s golf societies in both Bangkok and Hua
Hin. His ambition is to play every course in Thailand.

Acknowledgements
Several people need a big thank you for their help in the
compilation of this, the 2011-12 edition of Pocket Guide
GOLF Thailand. We are, as always, indebted to Mick Wittering
whose continuing assistance and support was invaluable
for the Hua Hin and Cha Am region. Robin Lloyd and Dave
Milne at The Wild Lodge in Khao Yai for their hospitality and
knowledgeable advice. Finally, Chawanrat has my enduring
admiration for putting up with me.

The author teeing off on the 9th at Red Mountain Golf Course on Phuket

14
 ABOUT POCKET GUIDE
Golf Thailand

T
his, the 2011-12 edition of Pocket Guide GOLF Thailand,
follows the Pocket Guide philosophy: written by experts
who are passionate about their subject and widely

French Gastronomy
distributed such that it reaches active, travelling golfers and
those interested in taking up the sport, providing them with
an informative, quality publication.
The contents of the book start with a series of introduction
sections, namely: Introduction to Thailand, Travelling Around
and an Overview of Golf in Thailand, plus sections on Golfing Authentic cuisine in the great tradition
Tips and Tricks, The Golfing Lifestyle, Golf for kids, Healthy Golf
and Thailand's Trickiest 18 Holes – or card wreckers! of French Culinary "savoir faire".
The book then covers the golfing regions, each with its own An exceptional wine selection to match
introduction and map, plus a list of the region's featured courses. the menu of this luxury restaurant
These are followed by a regional directory of local services and
travelling logistics. Each course listing and directory has a
in the heart of Patong Beach.
uniform layout to maintain the high standard and profile that
are the hallmarks of a Pocket Guide publication.
Although every effort has been made in putting together
the 2011-12 Edition of Pocket Guide GOLF Thailand, there
is always the possibility of changes to courses or facilities
offered after going to print.
Also, if you find that we have graphically misrepresented any
details, please send an email telling us what needs attention
to: info@golfguidethailand.com. Your input can help us
to maintain up to date details and information in future
editions, which will contain credits to all readers who have
kindly supplied valuable input.
If you have enjoyed this title, and we trust found it useful,
there are other topic specific guides in the series.
Pocket Guide DIVE Thailand gives an in-depth overview of
all the top scuba diving and snorkelling destinations around
the country including featured dive site descriptions and dive
centre listings, and if you are yet to discover the sport there’s a
section on taking the plunge and learning to dive in Thailand.
Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand (due for release during 2011)
is packed with signature dish recipes and how to create them
from many of the top restaurants around the country. There
are also sections covering regional flavours, different cooking
styles, preparation and presentation techniques,
as well as healthy and alternative ingredient
suggestions, making it an ideal meal planner
and food shopping guide where ever you are.
After all, everyone has to eat! Café de France
3 Sawadirak Road
Pocket Guides are available Patong Beach, Phuket 83150
on Bangkok Airways and
Mobile : +66 (0)87268 5340 (Christian)
Nok Air flights and/or in the
airline hospitality lounges : +66 (0)84849 2122 (Bao)
16
 INTRODUCTION
to Thailand

A
t the very heart of South East Asia, Thailand is an
independent kingdom which combines 20th-century
sophistication with an ancient culture that has evolved
over the past 700 years.
Covering just over 500,000 sq km, Thailand is bordered by
Malaysia to the south, Myanmar to the west, Laos to the
north and Cambodia to the east. It's unique amongst South
East Asian nations, in that it has never been occupied by a
foreign colonial power. Largely as a result, it has maintained a
cohesive sense of national identity and traditional culture.

Tourism
With over five million annual visitors, the kingdom is one
of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. It has an
enormous amount to offer all manner of visitors, from ancient
temples to rainforests and remote islands with palm-fringed
beaches – and, of course, fabulous golf courses meticulously
laid out in glorious surroundings, many of them designed by
international golfing legends, making Thailand one of the
most popular golfing destinations in the World.
Tourism is an important part of the kingdom’s service
economy. The country’s rapid development in recent
years has brought with it all the usual problems, such as
infrastructure bottlenecks, environmental degradation and
increased social pressures.
Despite a spectacular economic growth, the majority of the
population still earns its living from small-scale farming. Rice
is the country’s main crop and Thailand is the world’s biggest
exporter of rice.
Banyan Golf Club, Hua Hin

18
 INTRODUCTION
to Thailand
Bangkok and the regions of Thailand
The population of Thailand is around 60 million, with
approximately 11 million people living in the capital city,
Bangkok. This massive, vibrant, traffic-bound city dominates
the country’s central region and functions as the cultural,
religious, economic and political centre of the country.
Thailand is divided into four distinct regions: the north, the
vast northeast plateau, the central plains, and the narrow
Isthmus of Kra to the south, stretching down to the border
with Malaysia.
Once covered in teakwood forests, the mountainous
northern region appeals to the adventurous traveller, with
one of the main attractions being the prospect of trekking
through remote – and not so remote – villages inhabited by a
diversity of tribal peoples. The main focal point for the region
is the growing centre of Chiang Mai, Thailand’s ‘second’ city.
The north
The two northern provinces of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are
rich in history and culture and are home to a number of ethnic
hill tribes that, to this day, proudly wear traditional costumes
and communicate in their own language and dialect.
The two main cities of Chiang Rai, and the country’s second
largest city Chiang Mai, both date back to the mid 13th
Century. Chiang Mai, located 700 kilometres from Bangkok,
is often dubbed ‘The rose of the north’ and is steeped in
examples of its historic past. Many ancient temples remain,
as does the square-shaped moat that once surrounded the
original city.
Further north, Chiang Rai province acts as a gateway to the
infamous 'Golden Triangle' where the three countries of
Thailand, Laos and Myanmar converge alongside the banks
The Chiang Mai Golf Festival is an annual event
20
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
INTRODUCTION
of the Mekong River. The hilly terrain here experiences a
somewhat cooler climate than that elsewhere resulting
in it being an important agricultural centre successfully
cultivating a selection of market produce.
Isan
Separated from Laos by the Mekong River, the northeast
plateau is dominated by agriculture and is one of the poorest
regions in the country. Known as Isan, this region has a
distinct culture and dialect (reflecting its proximity to Laos),
and although it is the least developed area in Thailand, this
part of the country is well worth visiting, with ancient stone
temples dating back almost 10 centuries.
Central plains
The central plains are another important rice-growing area
and, although most visitors tend to pass them by on their way
further north, there are ancient cities, such as Ayutthaya and
Sukhothai, which repay exploration, as well as the infamous
Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai, close to the border with
Myanmar (Burma).
Southern Islands and beaches
The islands and beaches of southern Thailand hold a great
appeal for tourists and, whether looking for solitude or
sophisticated nightlife, there’s plenty of choice.
The Andaman coastline, to the west of the Kra Isthmus, boasts
fabulous scenery and dazzling beaches. The largest and best-
known of the islands here is Phuket, which has been attracting
increasing numbers of tourists for several years.
Further south, the island destination of Koh Phi Phi and the
beaches around Krabi on the mainland are slowly but surely
building a foothold on the tourist map and, although not
as established as Phuket, they are geared up to welcome all
Chiangmai Inthanon Golf and Natural Resort
21
 INTRODUCTION
to Thailand

visitors – from independent travellers to families – as is the

more remote and charming island of Koh Lanta further south.
In the Gulf of Thailand, off the opposing coastline, the most
established destination is the island of Koh Samui; the other
islands within the Samui Archipelago, Koh Phangan and Koh
Tao, are also popular tourist and diving destinations.
To the east of Bangkok, the beach resort of Pattaya bears
little resemblance to the real Thailand and has suffered from
a notorious reputation. However, recent years have seen an
commendable effort to remove the tarnish, and the coastline
around Jomtien (just south of Pattaya) is developing as a
highly desirable short or long term destination, particularly
with both the golfing and yachting fraternities.
Further east there are several virtually untouched islands
awaiting the adventurous traveller – Koh Chang, for instance,
which is the country’s second largest island, offers miles
of beaches and unexplored forest along with even its less-
developed neighbour, Koh Kut.
A more recent development amongst Thailand’s more popular
and established islands is the influx of expatriates who come to
live in the region permanently, or who buy a ‘holiday home’.
The demand for such homes has triggered a huge surge in
property development and the infrastructures that go with
such progress. Fortunately, developers have generally been
conscious of the need to look after their major asset, the
environment, so – to date – have had only marginal impact
on the idyllic nature of this region.
Thana City Golf and Sports Club

22
 TRAVELLING
to & around Thailand
Getting there
More than 50 international airlines serve the country with
daily direct flights to Bangkok from most major cities in
Europe, USA and Australia. There are also direct flights from
all over South East Asia to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket and
Koh Samui, with other destinations planned for the future.
You can drive into Thailand from Malaysia and Laos – the
latter journey takes you over the famous Thai-Laos Friendship
Bridge across the Mekong, at Nong Khai. If you are coming
into the country from Singapore or Malaysia – and if you
have a great deal of money to spare – think about the 34hr
journey on the luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express, sister to
the legendary Orient Express.
Visas
People of most nationalities can obtain visa-free entry, valid
30 days, on arrival at Bangkok International Airport and other
entry points; these will be issued only if you have a current
passport and ticket to take you out of the country at the end
of your stay.
Longer-stay visas are available, for a fee, from Thai embassies
and consulates around the world: specify whether you want
a transit visa (valid 30 days), a tourist visa (valid 60 days) or a
non-immigrant visa (valid 90 days and difficult to obtain). If
you have a tourist visa you can, once in Thailand, apply for a
30 day extension.
If you plan to leave Thailand temporarily during your stay, you
must obtain a re-entry visa, available from the Immigration
Department in Bangkok. These rules are subject to change so
best check current regulations prior departure.
Customs
Customs are usually no trouble, unless you are carrying
pornography, political propaganda, firearms, large amounts
of cash (over $10,000), or illicit drugs – for possession of
which the penalties are draconian. The allowances for the
usual luxury goods – perfume, alcohol and the like – vary,
so check them before departure. Please note that you are
required to bring a minimum amount of currency into the
country which varies depending on your visa.
Getting around
For longer distances air travel is the easiest option and
not prohibitively expensive. Nok Air and Thai Airways
International both have extensive domestic networks,
while Bangkok Airways has a smaller one serving some
routes exclusively.
26
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
TRAVELLING
Recent years have seen deregulation of air travel in Thailand
and a number of new low-cost domestic carriers. Reliability
may be factor.
Thailand has a good rail service: the fares are inexpensive,
timetables are usually adhered to, and the trains themselves
are comfortable and clean – with four classes covering
four main lines; Northern, North-eastern, Southern and
Eastern – so that you can choose between economy and air-
conditioned luxury. One pitfall to avoid is that of not booking
early enough: on the trunk routes you should book at least
a month in advance. The main railway station in Bangkok
serving all destinations is Hua Lumphong Railway Station.
Long-distance buses are a cheaper alternative, but you take
your life in your hands on one of these; the driving is often
atrocious. If you decide to risk it, opt for an air-conditioned
service; the comparatively small cost difference is worth it. In
remote areas you may be able to go to the opposite extreme
– from air-conditioning to just plain air – by travelling on a
Songthaew. This is essentially a pickup truck with a couple of
wooden benches in the back.
Taxis, Tuk tuks (three-wheeled scooters) and pedal-tricycles
operate in most parts of Thailand. You use these much as
you would use a taxi at home, except that they require you
to negotiate a price before setting off – and remember to
bargain. Do note that in many areas the drivers may not speak
English, so, to avoid confusion, get your hotel receptionist to
write down your destination in Thai so that you can show it
to the driver. Ask at your hotel what a reasonable fare to the
destination might be.
As the majority of golf courses are located between 30
minutes to an hour from the main areas of accommodation,
getting to and from facilities is best done by employing a taxi
or chauffeur-driven limousine which can be arranged through
hotels. Drivers will generally remain at the course for the
return journey. Alternatively, self-drive is an option and by law,
an International driving license will need to be produced.
Money
The unit of currency is the Thai Baht, which comprises 100
satang. All major credit cards are widely accepted. If you
prefer travellers’ cheques, obtain them in Sterling, Euros or
US dollars.
Currency exchange can be done either at banks or, in the
major tourist areas, at currency exchange counters. The larger
hotels will also change money, but usually give a poor rate of
exchange. Daily exchange rates are published in two English
language newspapers — the Bangkok Post and the Nation.
27
 TRAVELLING PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
TRAVELLING
to & around Thailand

Tipping evenings and are strongly recommended, as are waterproofs.

The majority of major hotels include a service charge and A number of golf clubs observe formal dress codes, (no jeans
local taxes, however a tip of 10-15 per cent for an appreciated or T-shirts) but some restaurants require a jacket and tie.
service should be considered in restaurants. On the golf Dialling codes
course it is both polite and generally expected to tip the The IDD for Thailand is: +66
caddie with an amount at least matching the caddie fee. To dial IDD from within Thailand, use 001 (or+)
Health Local dialling codes within Thailand need to be added for all
No particular vaccinations or inoculations are officially calls, even those made within the same area. When calling
required before you enter the country, unless you do so from from outside Thailand omit the prefix ‘0’.
an area where an infection is rife. Major codes are:
Check your route with your local consulate or embassy in Bangkok 02 Phuket 076
case there are necessary inoculations. Ask to be protected Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai 053 Koh Samui 077
against hepatitis A and B, tetanus, malaria and typhoid. Once Kanchanaburi 034 Hua Hin & Petchaburi 032
in Thailand, do not drink tap water. Hat Yai 074 Pattaya 038
Venereal diseases – notably AIDS – are extremely prevalent Khao Yai 036
so avoid casual liaisons. Rabies is likewise: If bitten by any
Public holidays 2010
animal, seek medical attention immediately.
Apr 6 Chakri Memorial Day Oct 24 Chulalongkorn Day
The standard of medical services in Thailand is generally high Apr 13-15 Songkran (substitution)
– certainly in Bangkok and other big cities and in the major May 1 (Sun) Labour Day Dec 5 HM The King’s Birthday/
tourist centres. A note of warning: Even if you take anti- May 2 Labour Day (substitution) Father’s Day
malarial tablets before travelling, it's still possible to contract May 5 Coronation Day Dec 10 (Sat) Constitution Day
malaria, so if you feel feverish when you return home contact May 17 Visakha Bucha* Dec 12 Constitution Day
your doctor immediately and have a check-up, mentioning Jul 15 Asarnha Bucha* (substitution)
that you have been in Thailand. Jul 16 Khao Phansa (Buddhist Dec 31 New Year’s Eve
Key facts Lent)* Jan 1 (Sun) New Year’s Day
Electricity: The supply is 220v AC 50Hz. Two-pin plugs with Aug 12 HM The Queen’s Jan 2 New Year’s Day
either round or flat pins are used, so carry an adaptor. Birthday/Mother’s Day (substitution)
Mean temperatures: Air, 30-400C. Sea, 27-310C Oct 23 (Sun) Chulalongkorn Day Mar 7 Makha Bucha Day*
Time zone: GMT + 7hr Holidays marked * are governed by the phases of the moon.
Clothing: Lightweight clothes are most suitable. Long Check the dates.
trousers guard ankles from mosquito bites during the
Chiangmai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort, Chiang Mai Lotus Valley Golf Resort, Bangkok

28 29
 HEALTH FOR GOLF PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
HEALTH FOR GOLF
in the tropics

A
mere few years ago, golfers were not really considered
athletes, but during the Tiger Woods era all that changed.
Apart from Gary Player, who was a fitness fanatic, few
touring professionals would have spent much time on fitness
and conditioning. However, it’s now recognized that golf is
a demanding game and can lead to injury and stress on the
body’s musculoskeletal system.
Surveys vary, but generally the lower back comes out as the
number-one golfing casualty, followed by the upper back,
wrists and elbows. If experiencing any long term suffering
with these injuries, it is advised to consult a reputable clinic.
The golf swing is a totally unnatural motion; such
movements, when repeatedly performed, can result in
injury. Poor technique is also a contributing factor, but with
fitness and conditioning the effects can be controlled, so
consider consulting a qualified golfing instructor. A number
of courses around Thailand, and several golfing schools and
centres, have specialists trained in this field utilising the very
latest computerised technology in their consultations.
There is also a specialised golfer health centre incorporated
in the Sports and Fitness Clinic at the Bangkok International
Hospital and another at Bumrungrad International Hospital.
These are staffed by sports physicians and medical personnel
trained in dealing with golfing problems.
Players seeking injury prevention and performance
enhancement follow customized exercise programs to
provide strength, flexibility and cardio-pulmonary capacity
– all important elements of healthy golf.
Fitness and conditioning
The best advice is to hit
the gym regularly, but
if exercising in public
is not your thing, it’s
amazing what can be
achieved with a few
weights and a mat in
the privacy of your
own home.
Try Pilates or yoga
exercises; they make
Bangkok International Hospital
of books describing the basic exercises. These programs, if
followed two or three times a week, in 30-minute sessions
can not only extend your golfing career, but are invaluable
for an all-round healthier everyday life.
Several muscle groups need particular attention to help pack
extra power into golf swings and to prevent injuries. First
exercise under the guidance of a qualified fitness instructor.
Start light, build up and don’t push your limits. Swimming is
also an excellent low impact way of staying fit.
One of the most beneficial aspects of golf is walking the
course. If done at a reasonable pace, it works the cardiovascular
system. So if possible, leave the cart at the clubhouse!
Warming up before the game
Prevention is better than cure and it’s a simple process to
reduce the likelihood of uncomfortable aches and pains
spoiling an otherwise enjoyable game. Before leaving
the locker room make an effort to undertake sufficient
stretching routines to get your body ready for the strain
it’s about to undertake. Performing some simple warm-up
techniques will put you in good stead for a successful and
more comfortable game.
There’s no need to place unnecessary stress on the body, just
do what suits without pushing your personal limits – and be
sure to do the left and right sides equally in the stretching
exercises!
• Loosen the neck by placing your chin on your chest and
then slowly roll your head from side to side.
• To stretch your upper back, place your right hand behind the
left shoulder blade and use your left hand to push the elbow
gently towards your face. Alternate hands and repeat.
• Loosen up the hands by swiftly flexing the fingers in and
out, followed by a series of wrist curls, either with or without
weights. Alternate hands and repeat.
• Prepare the hamstrings by bending forward and touching
your toes from a standing position whilst maintaining
straight legs; the result is improved by placing one foot
across the other and repeating the process.
• Again, for hamstrings, sit on the floor with one leg stretched
out. Bend the other one so that the foot touches the knee
of the outstretched leg. Then gently reach down and grab

a good starting point

for strengthening the the ankle of the straightened leg, holding on to it until you
core muscle groups feel your thigh stretching. Maintain the position for a short
and also improving while and then change legs.
flexibility. Many gyms • To prepare the lower back, sit on a chair and place your hands
have special classes behind your head. Raise one of your legs and draw your head
on these disciplines, down until you touch the raised knee with your elbow.
and there are plenty
30 31
 LIVING
the golf lifestyle

I f residing right next to your all consuming passion or

somewhere close to spoiling a good walk – depending
on how you view the game of golf, is for you; then there
has seldom been a better time to consider buying a property
on or at the very least, next to one of Thailand’s beautiful golf
courses.
One of the upshots of Thailand’s economic boom in the late
80’s and early 90’s was an unprecedented property bubble,
with banks seemingly willing to lend money to any project
regardless of viability. A number of the country’s courses
were built during this period with some having grandiose
plans for property development and resorts - even if the site
was miles from any population centre.
Back then, most banks found themselves as obliged owners of
foreclosed golf courses together with incomplete condos or
villas. Legend has it that a certain bank couldn’t find any takers
for one of their acquired courses, but the bank’s directors could
be seen playing it most weekends for many years afterwards.
However, time has marched on and most properties are now
back in the hands of private owners or consortia. As for the
unnamed course, it has new owners along with a new name
and more to the point, lots of new players!
In recent years however, a lot of new money has come in to
buy up distressed assets and, as a result, very few courses
have actually shut down. With the ever-growing popularity
of golf tourism throughout Southeast Asia things are back
on track with mini booms taking place, much of it due to
property development.
The choices are getting better by the day and nowadays
most of Thailand’s golfing regions have something to offer
in the form of course-side property. Whereas some are
new projects, many from yesteryear have matured into
flourishing communities, where sports and recreation as
well as relaxation and wellness are all part of the package.
No mean feat considering the rapidly growing popularity of
spas currently sweeping the country.
Some property options come with memberships to the club
that they look out over included in the price, and in some
cases the club is exclusively open to the property owners and
their guests, thereby creating an attractive incentive to buy.
Generally, purchasing options include fully furnished houses
with gardens and perhaps a swimming pool, or just bare
plots of land pending construction − ideal for those wishing
to appoint their own architect and design team to stand out
from the crowd. For those who don't want to change the style
of their interior décor from what they are used to, a number of
interior decorators and designers are on hand. And, for those

32
 LIVING PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
LIVING THE GOLF LIFESTYLE
the golf lifestyle

wishing to take advantage of their new tropical surroundings fine dining and wine lists, one could be forgiven for thinking
and soak themselves in the local ambience, there are options that this area is more like a slice of Europe than a National
like traditional Thai furniture, meticulously renovated, rebuilt Park in Thailand! Overall it’s not as hot as the central plains or
or even created from scratch. the south and, in the cool season from November to January,
evenings in particular have pleasant temperatures. Is it any
Not all homes, however, serve as permanent dwellings, wonder then, that the park settings are very appealing to the
which opens up possibilities of renting them out. There are local populace, with many residents of Bangkok setting up
local agencies that deal with such a service and cater to the second home’s here?
needs of both owner and potential renters alike. Some also
extend their services to include property management and To the west of the capital, a few courses around the
will look after homes both whilst they are occupied and after Kanchanaburi area are following suit and are slowly but surely
they have been vacated. They also make all the necessary warming to the concept of course-side housing and residence
preparations beforehand; imagine arriving at your house complexes; a similar scenario exists at a small selection of the
after an absence of several months to find the garden in courses around Chiang Mai in the north of the country.
pristine condition, the swimming pool clean and the fridge
The two areas currently flourishing property-wise are the
fully stocked with exactly what you like!
seaside resorts of Phuket and Hua Hin. The former is now a
The city limits of Bangkok mainly attract the local property well established market with residences on offer around a
market with some of the best houses found lining courses number of courses. These are much sought after, especially
such as Navatanee, Windmill, and Green Valley. So if you throughout the expatriate and international communities.
live and work in Bangkok and a sneaky game of golf before
Laguna Phuket, on the island's west coast, truly captures the
going to or from the office is on the cards, these areas could golfing lifestyle with its privately owned houses, villas, hotels,
be worth looking into. restaurants and spas. Inland, Loch Palm and Red Mountain
Heading east and within easy driving range of Bangkok, the play centrepiece to a selection of two-storey housing projects,
Pattaya and Chonburi areas provide great escapes from the either alongside the fairways or in the surrounding countryside.
city's hustle and bustle. Although there are no courses on Mae Jo Golf Club & Resort, Chiang Mai
the beach as such, Pattaya and Jomtien have enough water
sports, including scuba diving, sailing, kite boarding and
windsurfing, to more than make up for the short journey
from the clubhouse.
With over 20 courses within striking distance, many designed
by well known names, it’s no surprise that golf is one of the
area's main draw cards. Residential property has, of course,
sprung up round a number of courses in an assortment
ranging from hacienda-style golf villas to condos and houses
with splendid ocean views.
The Pattaya Sports Club is the local golfing society. They play
regularly so, if you so choose, you won’t be short of company.
The club has also managed to negotiate discounts at local
courses for members; a good deal it is too!
If living in the hills is more to your liking, the Khao Yai area,
again just a short drive from Bangkok, has some different
offerings. Royal Hills in the south sports a grand hotel and
some beautiful privately-owned golf lodges, which can also
be rented out. To the north, Forest Hills has land plots available
around the course, with many already occupied by second
homes resembling alpine cottages. With its hilly terrain,
comfortable climate, dairy farms and vineyards flaunting

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 LIVING PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
LIVING THE GOLF LIFESTYLE
the golf lifestyle

These family-orientated residences are laid out to enjoy the with a 27-hole course as a garden, along with hotel and spa,
best views and are only a few minutes from everyday facilities this is a very desirable place to live.
such as shops, hospitals and even an International school. Then there is another splendid course that recently arrived
There are a couple of new developments off the island which on the scene: Banyan Golf Club. Which offers residential
in future years will add to Phuket’s appeal. To the north of property – condominiums, houses or luxurious villas −
the island, Thai Muang Beach Golf and Marina is currently nestled in the hills overlooking Hua Hin with superb vistas
closed for redevelopment and is undergoing a brand new over the countryside and, in places, out to sea.
course layout, complemented by spectacular properties and With increasing affluence comes the search for an active
a state-of-the-art-marina. leisure time and, if living the golf lifestyle is a full time
Heading east across Phang Nga bay to Krabi, The Cove attraction or holiday pastime for a few weeks a year, there are
has employed the talents of Scottish golfing legend, Colin few countries in South East Asia better suited than Thailand.
Montgomerie to design an onsite course as centrepiece to Plus putting a sport (particularly golf) and property together
a series of hotels, condominiums, houses and a marina. If adds value to the investment. Couple that with a comfortable
yachting and golf are your sports, these stunningly beautiful and secure lifestyle and the luxury of being able to play golf
areas will both be worth investigating; Phuket is rapidly right on your very doorstep and you surely have a winner.
becoming the yachting centre of the region. Perhaps those 90s developers were on the right track after all!
Palm Hills Resort & Country Club, Hua Hin
Off the opposing coastline, the island of Koh Samui is a hive
of activity with all manner of construction projects and, as
the island currently has a choice of three courses to play,
there's always a view of the green stuff in the offing!
Back on the mainland, golf course-related developments
around the twin seaside towns of Cha Am and Hua Hin are
continuing to gain in popularity − so much so a brand new
course is today's incentive to buy property and, with some of
the finest courses in the country, the attraction is significant!
With nearby international schools and working from home
a reality, it’s possible to carry on with the job whilst the kids
receive a good education − and still have time to play golf
regularly in the sun. But if you miss networking and simply
can't get along without it, Hua Hin has its very own golf
society which regularly turns out over 50 members and
guests for twice weekly games on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Members from all walks of life have opted to relocate in
Thailand, so if retiring to a warm golfing destination by the
beach is your dream, you won’t be alone − there’s plenty of
convivial company and, if just playing golf is not enough, many
of the gang can be found at Berny’s Bar in the centre of town in
the evenings − and yes, they will be talking about golf!
Of the more established courses in the area, Palm Hills Resort
& Country club is the most advanced residential development
with a few of the original plots for sale as well as a new selection.
Most houses feature individual designs, which makes for an
interesting mix and, with a busy resident’s sports club and its
proximity to town, it will never be short of takers.
Springfield Village Golf and Spa has sold almost all of its plots
with, to date, only a few seeing any sign of construction, but

36 37
 GOLFING
in & around Thailand
Thailand’s special attraction
Thailand has recently become a bit of a golfers' paradise for a
few very good reasons. Certainly in relation to its neighbours,
Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea and Japan, Thailand
is still good value for money, so many Asian and European
tourists now visit in the winter months from November to
March and enjoy a range of excellent golf facilities.
Judging by the price of golf in other world destinations
frequented by Europeans, such as the Middle East and the
Iberian Peninsula, where parting with US$100 is a regular
experience for 18 holes, Thailand stands to benefit further still
– as long as golf operators keep things at a sensible level.
Despite the amount of rainfall, one seldom loses a whole
day’s golf to the weather; you might get a little wet, but the
chances of being rained off completely are very slim. Even if
you do get rained on, there are always drinks stops to shelter
in and many even provide meals as well, so waiting out the
rain is no real hardship at all.
Then there is the range of courses, from true championship
layouts, to interesting resort courses, flat tracks on the central
plains to hilly tests in the north and a mixture of beachside,
links style or parkland designs. In fact a virtual full house. There
is even a 9 hole layout styled on a New Mexico or Arizona
desert course and an excellent 9 hole par 3 course with all the
holes modelled on courses where majors are played.
Background
Golf really started in the 1920s when King Rama VI built a
palace in Hua Hin and commissioned a golf course right next
to the town’s railway station.
Santiburi Samui Country Club, Koh Samui
38
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
GOLFING INTRODUCTION
Built by a Scottish railway engineer and completed in 1924,
the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course is still a gem after all this time.
A few more opened in the 1970s, including Navatanee in
Bangkok, built to host the World Cup in 1975, but it was not
The Mah Boonkrong International Par 3 is a real plus
for making the trip to Bangkok Golf Club.
Whilst not exact copies, the holes are modelled on
some very famous par 3’s worldwide, such as the 3rd
at Joondalup, the 11th at St Andrews, the 7th at Pebble
Beach and the 12th at Augusta – right in the middle of
Amen Corner and a very good replica it is too! It's a great
place to take beginners and especially the kids as it's
seldom too crowded and nobody minds a few etiquette
lapses.
The caddies here are also very good, offering help and
advice to beginners. The condition of the course is
surprisingly good, so if you want to practice the short
game or just have a lot of fun, give it a try.
Not much more than an 8 iron will be needed, as the
longest hole is 152 yards and the shortest is 83 yards.
There's an accumulating hole-in-one prize which is a
small fee to enter and, since you never know your luck,
is worth a punt!
until Thailand started to boom in the early 1990s that golf
really took off and a massive expansion began with new
courses appearing country wide.
Many were designed by world renowned names including
Pete and Perry Dye, Nick Faldo, Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman,
Gary Player, Peter Thomson and Robert Trent Jones Jnr.
39
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 GOLFING
in & around Thailand
However, a number of courses were badly planned and ill
thought-out, intending to sell condominiums and houses on
the land surrounding the course. The economic crash of 1997
found many projects foreclosed and a large number of half-
built houses could be seen rotting away; a sad sight indeed.
It's only recently that a number are showing signs of
development, with land plots being sold, new resort hotels
going up and houses being built. The last few years have even
witnessed some new courses: Lotus Valley Golf Resort, Alpine
Golf Resort Chiang Mai, Mission Hills Khao Yai (undergoing
name change) and Suwan Golf and Country Club to name
but a few. So things are looking up for golfers, both local and
visiting, to enjoy the game in really excellent surroundings.
Playing Golf in Thailand
The game is somewhat different here when compared to
many resort and golf holiday destinations. Only a handful of
courses have any sort of marshalling for example, so don’t
expect the kind of etiquette and course discipline that is the
norm in Europe and elsewhere. Many courses allow 5- or
even 6-ball groups, which tends to slow things down, in fact
Thai groups seem to prefer playing as a 5-ball.
Almost all par 3’s are 'call holes' where, once your group have
all made the green, the group behind is 'called up' to play
their shots while you wait. The theory is that this speeds up
the game, but sadly it tends to just bunch groups on the
following and preceding holes. Quite why this developed in
Thailand remains a mystery.
At weekends on one or two courses in and around Bangkok,
you could experience a five-hour round or, during particularly
busy times, as long as seven hours. Weekdays are preferable
Santiburi Country Club Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
GOLFING INTRODUCTION
for visitors as the courses will not be as crowded and the pace
of play should be more acceptable. However, if Thailand is to
capture a greater share of the golf tourism market, the pace
of play is something that needs to be addressed by the clubs
themselves. Some, to be commended, are doing this already.
Where the Korean golfers hone their skills
If you've ever wondered why the Koreans seem to be
surging on towards great things in the world of golf,
particularly in the women’s game, take a trip to Dragon
Hills Golf & Country Club near Ratchaburi and you'll see
why!
Hordes of junior players have a golf camp here from
November to January in the midst of the North Asian
winter, with morning practice and afternoons spent on
the course accompanied by a pro.
This is one way to ensure that your country’s talent
receives the attention it deserves. European golf
associations take note!
All courses have drinks stops, some doubling as noodle stalls,
so eating is also very much part of the game. Most golfers
here are not in a hurry either, so relax, enjoy the surroundings
and don’t get hot and bothered about the time your round
might take.
Perhaps take a little longer to contemplate what shot to play
and do what the pros do; visualize the shot first and then hit
the perfect swing to put the ball where you planned. I know,
we can all dream!
Mission Hills Phuket Golf Resort & Spa, Phuket
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 GOLFING
in & around Thailand
Chiangmai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort, Chiang Mai
Without exception, all courses will require you to take a
caddie. If this is a new experience, enjoy it. Having someone
to pull your trolley, lug your bag or drive your cart gives you
more time and energy to concentrate on the game. Hiring a
caddie is not expensive and just now and again, you will get
one who really does know the course, can read the greens
and occasionally even club you. Don’t forget though, some
of the caddies have never, and will never, play the game, so
don’t be harsh if they get the putt line wrong – after all, you
are the one hitting the ball!
Local Tournaments and Golfing Stars
The number of golfers in Thailand is difficult to determine,
but judging by the amount of driving ranges in and around
most cities, vast numbers of people at least swing a club from
time to time, even if they do not get to play regularly.
The military owns and runs many courses and almost all
main army, navy or air force bases will have at worst a 9 hole
track, while some boast 36 hole complexes with country club
style facilities.
Gassan Lake City Golf Club & Resort, Chiang Mai
44
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
GOLFING INTRODUCTION
The fun way to get on course
What better way to 'do' Thailand's golf courses –
many of which are in fairly remote areas – than to fly
yourself in? General Aviation (that is private flying) is
growing in the Kingdom and is much easier now than, say,
10 years ago. There are around 120 airstrips around the
country that are open to private fliers, though some are
suitable only for STOL (short take of & landing) aircraft.
Learning to fly is relatively easy and quick, not to
mention exciting, fun and rewarding – and surprisingly
inexpensive. Once you've learned you can rent aircraft by
the hour from a flying club, take a part share in an aircraft
or, of course, go the whole way and buy your own.
Thailand's 'HQ' for flying light aircraft is The Thai Flying
Club, based at Bang Phra Airport in Sri Racha (just east
of Bangkok). It's a friendly club full of people who love
what they do and who are keen for others to join them.
For more information visit www.thaiflyingclub.com, call
+66 (0)38 777348 or email info@thaiflyingclub.com
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) also
has a number of very good courses, which are open to the
public. The proliferation of courses has led to a massive
increase in the popularity of the game and, naturally, a rise
in the number of world class players as well as an increasing
number of big tournaments.
Major sponsors such as Volvo, Honda, Isuzu, Johnnie Walker,
and Heineken have all promoted international tournaments
in Thailand; some have been co-sanctioned Asian and
European Tour events and, in 2006, the first LPGA event
external to the USA was held here.
Thailand is arguably the dominant nation on the Asian Tour.
With back to back order of merit winners in 2004 and 2005,
Muang Kaew Golf, Bangkok
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 GOLFING
in & around Thailand

Santiburi Samui Country Club, Koh Samui

Thongchai Jaidee and Thaworn Wiratchant, as well as regular

top ten finishers, the country now has a very strong group of
talented players ranging in age from early 20s to late 40s.
The best known and much admired is Thongchai Jaidee, with
two wins on the European Tour and solid European order of merit
places in the last few years. The former paratrooper has developed
into a mature competitor with an enviable track record.
Thaworn Wiratchant has also won on the European Tour and,
despite a style not found in any coaching manual, has a short
game to die for. Former Hua Hin caddie, Prayad Marksaeng,
has been a regular winner on both the Asian and Japanese
Tours. Former World Junior Champion, Prom Meesawat, now
in his early 20s, could very well be the future of Thai men’s
golf. And let's not forget that Tiger Woods comes from Thai
stock!
Thai women have also started to shine in international
tournaments with Virada Nirapathpongporn playing the
LPGA Tour together with Stacy Prammanasudh, another
player of mixed Thai-American heritage. If you watch Thai
ladies play, many have graceful and fluid swings, so it is only
a matter of time before world class stars breaks through.
Chiangmai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort, Chiang Mai

46
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 GOLF
– a family game
T
here’s never been a better time for youngsters to learn
and play golf. Thankfully much of the stuffiness and
pomposity that used to pervade the game is a thing of
the past.
Juniors were neither seen nor heard at some golf clubs a few
years ago but countries like Thailand have a very refreshing
attitude to youngsters; if you’ve paid a green fee, you can
play − as long as it’s not to the detriment of the course or the
other players.
Getting it right early
In Asia one individual has been largely responsible for the
huge growth in the popularity of the game; Tiger Woods no
less. In the era where he dominates the men’s professional
game, it should come as no surprise that he started playing
at a very early stage in his life. There have not been many
late starters who went on to achieve the great things that
he has, but even so the man is a phenomenon unlikely to be
matched for some time.
His mother Kultida was born in Thailand and is a Thai native,
so Tiger is no stranger to the country; there is even a picture
of him swinging a club at the age of 5 or 6 in the clubhouse
at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club.
Tiger’s visits here, as well as a surge in the success of local
professionals such as Thongchai Jaidee on the Asian and
European Tours, have helped to spark a huge interest in the
game amongst the younger community; it’s only a matter of
time before a local player reaches the giddy heights of a top
10 ranking in the world. In fact Prom Meesawat has already
been a world junior champion, before going on to join the
paid ranks.
Many golf courses in Thailand welcome kids on their fairways
48
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
FAMILY GAME
When and where to get swinging
The starting point is usually one of the golfing schools or
academies or even the local driving range; six years old is a
good age to make a start. Bangkok has a proliferation of the
latter and nowadays there are many scattered all over the
country, so if you’re near civilization, a range won’t be too far
away. For a handful of Thai Baht for a tray of balls, the kids can
have fun learning how to hit the ball by watching mum and
dad before having a go themselves, or they can go it alone by
taking lessons from a professional. Almost every range has a
pro standing by in some shape or form; some are USGA or Thai
PGA qualified or are former touring pros plying their trade.
Many of the international schools have full golfing programs
and either have in-house teachers or employ the regular
services of a local golf pro from one of the courses or driving
ranges; so once or twice a week the kids are getting proper
schooling in the technicalities as well as the etiquette of the
game. There are also several dedicated golf academies such as
the Three Generation Golf Academy at the PTIS International
School in Chiang Mai. Lessons vary from an hour a week up
to on a daily basis, both before and after academic lessons.
Class ‘A’ Clubmaker, Mick Wittering makes custom clubs for all ages
49
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 GOLF
– a family game
The Bangkok Golf Training Centre runs a selection of
instructional opportunities. Over the weekend, ‘Kids 90’
provides 90 minutes of coaching conducted by British PGA
Pros. Saturday is reserved for beginners and those new to the
game, whilst players with some experience, get the chance
to improve their technique and learn how to lower their
handicaps the following day.
For more intensive training the 'Junior Dragon Program' runs
over the whole weekend for a duration of eight weeks.
Also in Bangkok, Bromsgrove International School enlists
professional golf teaching staff to run a program which is
actually amalgamated into the regular PE curriculum. The
weekly lessons cover topics ranging from golf basics to on-
course etiquette and playing tips. There’s also additional
after-school tuition available which has a more personal
approach to fine-tuning individual abilities. Both of these
Bangkok facilities offer summer golf camps.
Finally, a great way to get kids started is to take them out to
one of several par 3 courses that exist around the country, if
possible during the week when they’re not so crowded. It’s
also best to avoid rainy days. The 9 hole course at Bangkok
Golf, with its water hazards and bunkers, is a rather good
test of golf, but would suit those who hit the ball well and is
certainly good for practicing the short game.
Young players take to the fairways on Phuket
50
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
FAMILY GAME
In the southern region, kids are made very welcome at
Laguna Phuket Golf Club, who schedule weekly training
sessions. The name of the programme is 'Iceberg Golf' and
there's a minimal fee for joining each of the lessons or a
special discount package for attending 10. The whole thing
is an informal affair. With no hard and fast rules demanding
a presence every week, the kids can just drop in whenever
and however often they wish and pick up where they
left off, making it ideal for full or part time residents and
holidaymakers alike. Also on Phuket, kids can enjoy junior
rates at Loch Palm Golf Club and Red Mountain Golf Course.
In fact, these days, kids are made very welcome at a
number of courses around the country. An enjoyable family
atmosphere extends throughout the course's fairways and
facilities including the clubhouse and pro shop, where a
number of items are available in 'kids sizes'. Carts are on hand
to carry players 'of all ages' around the fairways and putting
and chipping greens offer kids the opportunity to get into
the swing of things under the guidance of resident golf pros,
all at, in most places, special discounted junior rates!
So start saving money; before you know it, your kids will be
after the latest drivers, clubs and proV1x balls as well as all
the right clothing to look the part.
51
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 CUSTOM CLUBMAKERS PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
CUSTOM CLUBS

T
he technology of
golf equipment has
advanced at an ever
increasing rate over the last
decade. These unending
changes can be daunting,
the apparently simple task
of selecting and effectively
fitting the most efficient
clubhead, shaft and grip
together is no easy task. To
get the best out of what’s
currently on the market
requires a great deal of skill, affection and knowledge.
Enter Mick Wittering. Mick along, with female assistant Khun
Katai, considered by Mick as one of the top two clubmakers
in Thailand, have the knowledge and experience to use a vast
amount of information, technique and design – piqued with
the latest in fitting technology – the Zelocity PureLaunch
Monitor, leave their golfing clients feeling comfortable and
confident with the analysis of what is best for their individual
requirements.
Classified as a Professional Class ‘A’ Clubmaker – which puts
him in an elite group of less than 100 people worldwide –
Mick has been a well-known figure in the world of Southeast
Asian golf for over 16 years, while his reputation for club
fitting is rapidly spreading around the globe.
With his influence on touring professionals, along with the
high level of respect he commands throughout the club
fitting industry, it comes as no surprise that Mick’s name
regularly frequents the list of the 'World's Top 100 Clubfitters
of the Year'.
Mick established Hua Hin Golf Centre & Custom Clubmakers,
where only the highest quality components are used (such
as KZG and Tom Wishon Golf Technology – both of which
consistently win awards for clubhead manufacturing).
Match these with a broad spectrum of shafts from top brand
names such as Aldila, Graffaloy, Rifle, True Temper and UST,
plus grips from Golf Pride and Lamkin, and these hand-
crafted clubs are bound to satisfy all golfers, from complete
beginners to multiple major winning professionals, including
John Daly and Seve Ballesteros.
If it can be created, Mick and his team are the people to achieve
it and, furthermore, the results are not only affordable, but the
clients get exactly what they specifically need.
Good enough reasons indeed to drop by and see what it
feels like to hit, and even own, some of the best-made clubs
in the world.
52
52 53
 THE ‘CARD WRECKERS’
A selection of Thailand’s most interesting and
challenging golf holes.
This is a fantasy composite course of 18 holes, set out in a par
72 format. Some of the holes are from the blue or back tees,
but a few from the white tees – which are shorter and more
forgiving – have been included.
When people play some of these holes, they might ask
themselves what the fuss is about and wonder what was tough
or challenging about them. Well, they've been selected for a
number of reasons, some just because they're difficult, some
interesting and require the golfer to think a bit harder, and
one or two just because they're beautifully laid out designs,
although still tough holes.
Many of them have given considerable difficulty over the years
and golfers feel they've had a good day if they can get birdie
or par on them. One or two courses are represented more than
once, but that's because they're such superb courses.
1 The 6th, Course B at Sir James Country
Club, Khao Yai, Par 4, white tee, 435 yards
Let’s start with a tough par 4. It's index 1, and for
good reason. It's a huge dog-leg left up a hill for
the drive, but then over a valley and round the
corner for the second shot to an uphill green,
protected by bunkers left and right. The inside
of the dog-leg is protected by out of bounds and a
water hazard, so this is not the hole for serial hookers;
and you have to be far enough right with the drive to
even see the green.
2 The 9th, Course C at Greenwood Golf &
Resort, Chonburi, Par 4, white tee, 412 yards
Another taxing dog-leg par 4, this time to the
right with a huge lake on the inside and a bunker
bang on the corner. The green is raised and very
small, with pot bunkers 20-30 yards out just to
punish players who under-club. Greenwood is
one of Peter Thomson’s best designs and, since
he made his name playing and winning ‘The
Open’ 5 times on British links courses, pot
bunkers are to be expected.
3 The 12th at Dragon Hills Golf &
Country Club, Ratchaburi, Par 3, blue
tee, 181 yards
This is just a beautiful golf hole to me. The tee
is elevated looking over a large lake to the right
and front of the green, which is nestled in some
mounds surrounding the left and back. The
54
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
TOP 18 HOLES
green is also three-tiered, which makes it such a challenging
tee shot and putt depending on where the pin is. A bunker
protects the right side as well as the water so, not only is the
hole scenically good, it’s hard too.
4 The 18th at Loch Palm Golf Club,
Phuket, Par 5, white tee, 506 yards
A great finishing hole at Loch Palm, with a
downhill drive to a corner required before turning
left to a narrow ledge for the second shot, with a
steep bank down into jungle on the right and
a virtual cliff on the left. There are great
views overlooking the course as you
walk along this hole, but don’t let that
distract you; your powers of concentration will be needed
to get the ball on the green in regulation and make a good
score.
5 The 6th, Course A at Khao Kheow, Chonburi, Par 4,
white tee, 347 yards
Whilst this is a short hole, it can bite you in the
wrong place with consummate ease. With out of
bounds and a bunker on the left, as well as water
and a bunker right, a straight drive down the hill
is essential. Once you've made your perfect drive,
then the trouble starts. The green is surrounded
by water and juts out into the lake on the right,
so the second shot is a knee trembler for slicers,
particularly if the pin is back right.
6 The 6th at Navathanee Golf Course,
Bangkok, Par 4, white tee, 419 yards
Another very testing par 4, index 1 at
Navathanee, requires a solid drive to a fairway
that slopes left to a creek running along the
left, then crosses the fairway to a lake on the
right. A big hit from this tee might run out of
fairway, so ask the caddie for distances. The
second shot is across the creek, with the water
hazard now on the right, to a raised green
protected by bunkers and with the lake on the
right. This hole features in Asia’s top 50 golf holes
and ranks number 1 in Thailand.
7 The 17th at The Royal Golf and Country
Club, Bangkok, Par 3, blue tee, 218 yards
Teaching professionals have been seen to sneak
the driver out of the bag for this intimidating par
3 – and it's the right club as the prevailing wind
is against you. With water right and in front of
you and a green raised and protected by pot
55
 THE ‘CARD WRECKERS’
bunkers, the pressure is on. Many match-play rounds come
down to this hole; it can make or break a deadlock. The green
is massive, so pin positions are very varied and the difficulty
is to stop a ball on it with such a big club. Even off the nearer
white tee, it's anything from driver to utility wood for many
players. This one’s a beast.
8 The 18th at The Majestic Creek Country Club, Hua
Hin, Par 5, white tee, 553 yards
This is my favourite thinking hole, as there are
so many options that you need to plan carefully.
The drive is guarded by water and bunkers left,
water straight and trees right. You need to hit
about 200 yards, which leaves the next puzzle.
You'll be faced with a lay up with a medium
iron to a narrow landing area with water right
and a bunker left, or you can hit a fairway wood
over the bunker to open up the green.
Either way, the green is two tiered and slopes
towards you and the water that it juts out into.
Bunkers right and behind give it more protection,
so three precise shots are required before a very testing putt
on a sloped green.
9 The 18th at Amata Spring Country Club, Bangkok,
Par 4, blue tee, 436 yards
A tough way to finish the front 9, as the hole is into the wind
and very long, with a large lake on the left. Well-
known tour professionals have been seen to hit
woods into the green for their second shot − but
they were playing 477 yards for the hole.
The green kinks left and is protected by bunkers,
as well as a beautiful waterfall just below the
imposing clubhouse, so the approach is a
healthy smack to an awkward green.
10 The 7th on Course B at Khao Kheow
Country Club,
Chonburi, Par 4, yellow tee, 424
yards
This is another of those holes that
doesn't at all suit players who draw or
hook the ball. A big drive is needed to
give yourself as short an iron in as possible,
because the green is tucked in left round a lake,
with bunkers guarding the right. Even if you hit the
green, anything to the left – or drawing – runs the risk
of scooting off into the lake, as there's no fringe to the
green, which simply falls right away to the water.
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
TOP 18 HOLES
11 The 6th at St Andrews Hill 2000, Rayong, Par 4,
white tee, 310 yards
310 yards sounds like a let off. Well, a 5 wood or
3 iron is required to get you safely over a lake
to a narrow strip of land partially blocked by a
single tree just where one would like to hit the
ball, before the hole dog-legs right to an uphill
green, surrounded by countless bunkers.
There is no bump and run to the second shot
as the bunkers will trap that approach so a
precise wedge or 9 iron is the only sure way.
12 The 16th at Blue Sapphire Island Golf & Resort,
Kanchanaburi, Par 3, blue tee, 165 yards
This beautiful little par 3 will test your assessment of wind
and elevation as the tee sits on a hill
looking over a lake and severely
downhill to the green, which has a
nasty bunker to the left with palm
trees in it so even the sand is not
always a safe place to be and of
course the lake in front takes care of
anything played short. A downhill
shot is usually a club less, but if the
wind is blowing, think long and hard
about what you want to do with the tee shot.
13 The 18th at Springfield Village Golf & Spa,
Cha Am, Par 5, white tee, 473 yards
One of Jack Nicklaus’ best creations. The hole dog-
legs left over high trees with a bunker to catch
the straight drive, water down the right for the
second shot and an island green to make the
nervous wobble more. At 473 yards off the
white tee, it’s not long, but so tempting to try
and make eagle as long as you clear the trees
with the drive. With any lapses of concentration,
this one will bite you and possibly ruin a nice
round or just sum up the day if you’ve had a bad
one.
14 The 16th at Gassan Khuntan
Golf & Resort, Chiang Mai, Par 4,
white tee, 360 yards
I’ve heard this hole described as
everything from crazy to unfair. Well,
what would be the challenge if it was easy?
The hole is a 90 degree right hand dog-leg with
a very narrow drive to a very small landing area.
The catch is that huge trees line the right hand side of
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 THE ‘CARD WRECKERS’
the fairway so you need to get the drive past these before
you can size up the second shot, severely down hill and over
water to virtually an island green. The classic mistake is to
put yourself in a good position and then underestimate the
down slope and over club to the green.
15 The 16th at Royal Ratchaburi
Golf Club & Resort, Ratchaburi,
Par 4, blue tee, 354 yards
This is not such a difficult hole really,
but fools people who don’t know the
course. The hole curves to the left round
a lake but also has water right so, to me, it’s
a difficult drive. However, the designer has left
an alternative as the fairway is split by the lake,
leaving a small landing area aimed directly at the hole
with water, trees and bunkers shielding it – but it’s by far
the easier route as it cuts off about 50 yards and saves one
from an intimidating drive.
I played skins there with a couple of friends who had never
seen the course before; luckily for me they had the honour so,
once they'd hit drives going the prescribed route, I casually
pulled out a 3 iron, turned 90 degrees left on the tee box and
planted a perfect shot to the small landing area inside
the main lake to within wedge range – and took the
money with a par. I can’t repeat their comments about
failing to disclose this alternative route!
16 The 14th at Soi Dao Highland Golf Club
& Resort, Chantaburi, Par 4, white tee, 359
yards
This is such a delightful course that at least one
hole is worth a mention. The layout is up a hill
through some large trees with a bunker right
on driving distance for most players, so a solid
5 wood will get you in play before the second to
a wicked green full of slopes and hollows. Being
Gassan Khuntan Golf & Resort, Chiang Mai
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
TOP 18 HOLES
below the hole is key to preventing a 3 putt or even running
off the green so take the second shot seriously.
17 The 8th at Amata Spring Country
Club, Bangkok, Par 3, blue tee, 203 yards
This daunting par 3 is difficult to describe; you
have to play it to appreciate it’s full horror.
Into the prevailing wind, which is normally
strong late morning and afternoon since
Amata is close to the sea, the tee shot is
slightly downhill but a huge lake runs all the
way down the left and a big bunker protects a 3
tiered green. In the Royal Trophy 2006 (Asia versus
Europe match play format), many pro’s took irons for their
236 yard morning shot and having seen the carnage, a few
sheepishly pulled woods out of the bag in the afternoon and
still the water claimed a few. I don’t recall a birdie that week.
18 The 11th at Dragon Hills Golf &
Country Club, Ratchaburi,
Par 5, white tee, 474 yards
This is my favourite par 5 at one of the
finest courses in Thailand, so we'll finish
with this one. It's another risk-reward hole
as two good shots will see you on in two and
putting for that closing eagle.
The trouble is that the drive is almost blind, with
a massive rockery in the middle of the fairway
and out of bounds up the hill to the left. If you
catch a good drive, you won’t see where the ball finishes but
the caddies will know if it’s good. You're then faced with the
old question: to have a go or not? The simple procedure is
a medium iron and wedge and one or two putts to make a
good score, but fortune favours the brave, so go for a fairway
wood over the lake and the bunker surrounding the green to
give yourself the chance of a grandstand finish.
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 THAILAND’S PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
CADDIES
Golfing Gems

H
istorians believe that

Royal Hills Golf Resort & Spa, Khao Yai

the term ‘caddie’ derived
from the word ‘cadet’ and

Mission Hills Phuket Golf Resort & Spa

was introduced back in the 16th
Century.
So the story goes, whilst receiving
her education in France, Mary
Queen of Scots was tended to
on the links by young men called
cadets, pronounced “cad-day” by
the French – and the term stuck! Throughout the game they’ll brandish a shade-rendering
umbrella at the sun as golfers tread the fairways. They will
Bedecked in colourful numbered uniforms, every Thai also replace your divots and, if required, drive your golf cart.
golf course boasts a wave of smiling ladies and girls and –
occasionally – men and boys, plying the fairways. These are After observing a couple of swings, the more experienced
the caddies of Thailand, a trained community. caddies will have an idea of an individual’s playing abilities,
but will seldom offer
Sir James Country Club - Forest Hills

Caddies don’t just appear advice unless asked

Chiangmai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort

overnight; at many of the golf and, even then, are
clubs they actually attend more inclined to
caddie school where they inform you of the
learn, to some degree, many remaining yardage
aspects of the game with to the hole than
the intention of ensuring advising you on
everyone’s golfing experience which club to best
is as satisfying as possible. use – although they
probably know the
Their smiling, almost compulsory, service begins even before
answer!
golfers leave their transport. No sooner have players pulled
up at the bag-drop than the cheerful caddies spring into After all, they’re used to the greens at their club and know
action, unloading bags and checking the number of clubs how to treat them! However, just once in a while you’ll find a
therein. Caddy fees at Thai golf courses are very reasonable, caddie who’s so good that he or she can club you and, if you’re
but it is normal practice to tip your caddy – provided you’re playing in a competition, this can be a big help – especially if
happy with the service that is! you’re a relative novice or haven’t played the course before.

Loch Palm Golf Club, Phuket

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 CHARITY GOLF PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
CHARITY GOLF

Charity Golf Tournaments a charity auction held during the inevitable Gala Dinner back
at a top nearby hotel, which will also include a list of celebrity

A t some point during the year's golfing calendar,

gatherings of international and local sporting
legends, pop idols and stars of the silver screen
descend onto the fairways of one or another of the country’s
most prestigious golfing facilities, in what is best described
speakers, live entertainment − and yet more welcome drinks.
There are a number of annual events scheduled around the
country although dates can slightly differ from year to year;
here is a round up of just a few.
as an exhibition of golfing abilities!
However it’s not just a coincidence that the celebs have
happened to drop by at the same place at the same time in 2011-12 Calendar
order to work on their handicaps − although the opportunity BANGKOK
does allow − they are there to take part in organised fun-filled
• March 'Human Development Foundation Charity
events, which present mere mortals with the opportunity to
Golf Classic' at Vintage Golf Club.
play alongside them!
All money raised is donated to the Mercy Centre,
There is however, a price. But a fee is charged for playing at which works to help children and communities
the courses anyway, except in these cases the profits end up of many slums around bangkok, creating simple
at a designated charity and there's all the fun of the occasion but progressive solutions. Including protecting
as priceless memories! street children's rights, combating the AIDS crisis,
The day’s activities generally start before players congregate responding to daily emergencies and offering shelter
on the fairways, with a hearty breakfast. It’s then off to the to the needy.
clubhouse for, in some instances, a quick tipple before tee For information visit. www.mercycentre.org
off. Complimentary refreshments are on hand throughout
• June 'Convoy For Kids Charity Golf Day' at Siam
play, as food and drink stops abound, so there’s no need to
Country Club Pattaya Plantation.
over indulge before the shotgun!
The ‘Convoy For Kids’ charity was established in 1999
An extremely memorable round of golf lies ahead and, just by the Australian Thai Chamber of Commerce (ATCC)
to ensure concentration levels are maintained, a number of Transport Sub-Committee Their chosen charity is ‘The
holes are generously sponsored with special incentives for Foundation for the Welfare of the Crippled in Thailand’,
those who aspire to hit a ‘hole in one’. Doing so could result a non-profit organization that primarily concentrates
in walking away with a breathtaking prize. on helping children suffering from cerebral palsy,
Players not quite up to the mark during the day get another spina bifida and congenital deformities. It cares for
crack to get their hands on a wealth of fabulous goodies during more than 300 children and relies significantly on
private support and donations.
Convoy for Kids Charity Golf Day For information visit. www.convoyforkids.com

PHUKET
• April The 'Phuket Oilfield Classic Charity Golf
Tournament' at Blue Canyon Country Club and
Red Mountain Golf Course.
All profits raised during the event go to The Phuket
Has Been Good To Us Foundation, which works to
improve the economic opportunities and life chances
of young people, by funding and implementing
high quality, practical English language education in
government schools.
For information: www.phukethasbeengoodtous.org
and www.phuketoilfieldclassic.com

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 GOLFING
tips & tricks
G
olfing tips and tricks are endless, many relevant to
specific locations and local conditions. But there are
pointers that will help steer the uninitiated in the right
direction on playing in Thailand.
Heat and Exposure: Bangkok, named as the hottest city in
the world by the World Meteorological Organization, 'enjoys'
daytime temperatures reaching 40°C, especially between
April and September. Combine that with high levels of UV,
and covering up on the fairways is an absolute necessity to
avoid discomfort or, in extreme cases, heat-stroke.
• Apply as high a protection factor sun block as you can find,
even during overcast skies.
• Wear a hat, or better still carry a reflective umbrella which
will reflect the sun and provide shade.
• Carry a small towel to dry arms, face and hands. Hands also
benefit from absorbent wristbands.
• Cloth gloves are best suited, as leather pairs break down
with the continual soaking and drying.
Dehydration and Energy: Avoid dehydration; drink plenty
of water or electrolyte drinks before, during and after the
game. Replacing fluids and energy will help lessen the strain
on tired muscles and joints, often due to dehydration.
• If you become thirsty during play, you simply haven’t drunk
enough, so increase your intake.
• Carry plenty of bottled water or take regular breaks at the
course's drink stops.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before and during play as they
add no benefit to body or game.
Diet: Good nutrition can determine the level of your game,
particularly in the tropics. Many golfers find their energy and
concentration dropping significantly on the closing holes
and, if it’s a tournament, losing shots is often the result! This
Sir James Country Club - Forest Hills, Khao Yai
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
TIPS & TRICKS
can be avoided by following a regular and balanced diet of
carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Healthy eating will also
help to reduce excessive stress on joints.
• Don’t over-eat before a game; have a light, easy to digest,
meal avoiding fatty foods.
• Don’t assume that fast foods and snacks will give sufficient
energy to see you through the game.
• Eat plenty of fruit; it's a good energy source and is available
at the drink stops.
• Continue consuming plenty of water and if possible, fruit
after the game.
Rate of play: There’s a lack of understanding about the
pace of play in Thailand, but that’s not to say that it should be
allowed to ruin the game. If you're used to playing a round of
18 holes in 3 hours with a 4 ball, you'll find that games here
can pass by at a much slower pace. As Thailand permits 5
balls plus, you can end up behind players hitting in excess of
160 shots. A situation resolved by spending a bit more time
under the guidance of an instructor on the driving range!
• Don’t let a slow round ruin your thought process.
• Relax and be patient, particularly at weekends, when the
courses can be heavily played.
• Public displays of anger are considered undignified.
• Don’t attempt to make up lost time by rushing.
Caddies: Although most caddies have never played golf,
many can read the course well. (They tread the fairways
regularly!) If they do get it wrong, just stay calm and
remember: they're not employed as official adviser or coach!
• If a mistake is made, little jokes go down better than a lost
temper.
• Ask if the caddie would like any refreshments both during
the game and at the drink stops.
• You should tip your caddie at least the listed caddie fee.
Playing the game: You might think that in a hot country
the ball will fly far and run forever on sun baked ground.
In truth there's less run on the ball than at most European
courses, so if you're used to 50 yards of run on your drives,
get used to seeing six inches of backspin on wet fairways.
Local conditions can also affect the flight of the ball; for
instance on a humid morning, you might find every shot
feels as if it’s short.
• There's often more trouble short of the green than there is
long, so consider taking one more club.
• The greens in Thailand generally hold high approaches.
• Many shots may require a club more for the distance than
you may be used to.
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 INTRODUCTION PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
BANGKOK
to Bangkok

temporary residents return home for a month or so when the

Lotus Valley
Golf Resort
Thana City Golf &Sports Club
City of Angels
Bangkok’s formal Thai name, usually shortened to ‘Krungthep’,
is the longest of any city in the world and the city itself is a
huge urban sprawl.
With an estimated population of 11 million at any one time,
up to three million of the city-dwellers come only for the
employment and are not true Bangkokians.
Just ask a caddie if he or she comes from Bangkok and you
may very well find that you’re talking to someone who has
migrated from as far away as the Laos border in order to earn
regular money to send home to the family; many of these
rice harvest is in full swing to help with the crop.
The City of Angels, as Bangkok is enduringly known, is
legendary for its street markets and shopping. In fact it’s
quite possible that five million of the 11 million residents sell
food, clothing and other items along the roadside.
Imagine all your favourite dishes being available within a few
minutes walk of where you live or work. And what’s more, the
cost of a meal is less than a couple of dollars. Many Bangkokians
never cook at home – they simply don’t need too!
A number of the city’s best restaurants and attractions are
along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The Grand Palace
and Wat Phra Kaew or in English, the ‘Temple of the Emerald
Buddha’, are experiences to behold.
Across the water, Wat Arun or the ‘Temple of the Dawn’ is best
admired at night when it’s beautifully illuminated. All these
can be visited by joining organised tours, or by taking river
ferries and going it alone.
An absolute must for any visitor, if there is the opportunity, is
to see the Royal Barges in full procession on the Chao Phraya,
an event which dates back hundreds of years.
Staged infrequently now, this spectacle nevertheless ranks
right up there with any pageant anywhere in the world. The
Royal Barge Procession sees over 50 magnificently ornate
vessels plying the water in strict formation, crewed by
brightly uniformed oarsmen, officers and station markers.
Haunting chants regiment the rowing and the chorus of the
oarsmens’ response echoes off the river’s surface.

Thana City Golf and Sports Club Muang Kaew Golf

66
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67
 THANA CITY GOLF
and Sports Club
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Greg Norman | Opened 1993
About the course
Within easy reach of central Bangkok via expressway, Thana
City is an excellent Greg Norman design which, over the
years, has sent countless golfers away satisfied.
Not overly long at 6,966 yards off the pro tee and 6,400 off
the men’s, the course has enough defence strategies to
ensure that it doesn’t get overwhelmed, with strong par
3s and some quite outstanding 4s as well as an enticing 5
thrown in to tempt the glory seekers.
Water, in play on many holes, and some imaginative
bunkering, particularly on the shorter par 4s, keeps the player
honest but doesn’t make the course too difficult – they just
make the player think a bit more, which is what good design
is all about! This area is so flat that the relief has to be the
creation of earth movers, who have shaped the course well
whilst keeping it challenging and, above all, enjoyable.
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
BANGKOK GOLF COURSES
Even the tees have the Norman
touch with the pro tees called
‘Shark’, together with the
normal white and red boxes.
A new management team
with considerable industry experience behind it is raising the
standard of golf hospitality with their focus on oft-forgotten
factors like the pace of play, and the quality of the overall
experience the golfers go away with.
Playing the course: White tees
The 3rd 155 yards par 3 is the course's
first real test and so early in the round that
it might lead to some grief if not handled
correctly.
It’s an angled tee shot over a stream that
runs away from the tee, right to left to a
green which is slightly elevated and rarely
affords a view of the bottom of the flag.
Anything short will catch the bank of the stream
and be in thick rough, or get wet. A bunker protects
the back half of the green which will leave a nasty sand
shot with, again, water being a hazard. A good
reading of the green is needed here, as few of
Thana’s greens are nice, flat and easy.
The 7th 529 yards par 5 is a dog-leg left and
sports water all down the left side to tempt
the longer hitter to cut the corner and go
for glory. However, at this length, most will
need to play a second to a distance that
suits them; but herein lies the problem:
much of the approach area has bunkers
69
 THANA CITY GOLF PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
BANGKOK GOLF COURSES
and Sports Club

scattered all around, which puts a premium on the accurate
iron shot for position.
The approach can be a bit tricky as the green stands slightly
elevated and hides many of the pin positions – and there's
yet more bunkering to catch a loose pitch. Being stroke
index 2 on the card is a bit of a clue; this hole requires full
attention.
The 18th 425 yards par 4 is a magnificent
finishing hole and arguably one of the best
around if it's match play and you stand all
square.
This yardage is long for Thailand with trees
and water on the right from the tee, and trees
and a bunker on the left; a solid drive straight
down the middle is the only option to get on the
green in two.
Even with a decent hit off the tee, the second shot will be
decision time for some, as a long iron or fairway wood will
be needed to get over the lake that virtually surrounds the
green. Playing short to get on in three and settle for bogey
might be the answer but to finish here with par, or better, is
hugely rewarding.
Signature Hole
The 13th 108 yards par 3 is one of those holes that the
unwary golfer might say is too short to be a serious test. The
experienced will know that a hole does not have to be long to
be tricky and this one fits the bill perfectly.
With water surrounding much of the green,
making it almost an island, and bunkers
protecting both sides, this is a shot that requires
the right club depending on the wind and the
commitment to execute properly.
Just to add spice the green has some
interesting slopes and borrows – short
and you reload, left or right and you face a
difficult chip. On the green works but read
the putt carefully before you rush at a birdie chance.
The 19th hole
In 2010 Thana City completed a major overhaul of its facilities
and, with a visit in the middle of the year from designer Greg
Norman to cast his eyes over his creation, everything is set for
the club to go from strength to strength.
The newly renovated clubhouse affords first class changing
rooms and dining facilities, ranging from an indoor restaurant
and bar, a terrace overlooking the closing holes and a beverage
lounge close to the tee off area, serving noodles as a speciality
– something Thana has always been well known for.
The Golf Academy and driving range is worth a visit on its own
and a fully stocked pro shop and function rooms complement
the whole set up.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, Family, Corporate
Green fee: Weekdays 1,800 THB, Weekends 3,000 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB
Golf Cart hire: 600 THB
Facilities: Driving range | Equipment rental | Pro shop |
Resident professional | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)2 336 0567-68, Fax. +66 (0)2 336 0570
Mob. +66 (0)83 304 4433, (0)83 304 4455
e. reservation@thanacitygolf.com
w. www.thanacitygolf.com
9
7 7 31
Prawet

9 Suvarnabhumi
Bang Na Airport
Bang Kaeo
Kaew

TO Bangkok
King

3
33 Km14
44 9 Bangplee Yai TO Pattay
3 a
Thepharak Bang Chalong 34

70 71
 LAM LUK KA
Country Club
36 Holes | Par 72 | By Roger Packard | Opened 1994
About the course
There are few courses in Thailand as well maintained as Lam
Luk Ka. With two 18 hole tracks, playing either is a treat and well
worth the visit, plus they don’t become crowded on weekend
afternoons. Split into A-B (East Course) or C-D (West Course),
either side will give you an enjoyable test of your game.
Although set in flat surroundings the courses are anything
but even, with lots of mounds, hollows and many a raised
green. The tee boxes suit most levels of golfer in terms of
distance, but some serious positional play is still required
to do well. Trees line at least one side of most fairways with
water often taking up the other side.
Lam Luk Ka should leave you tingling with satisfaction
after a good round or wanting to do it all over again after
a bad one.
Playing the course: Yellow tees
The 5th 386 yards par 4 on Course B
has a fairway split by a massive tree
right in the middle with a bunker
in front of it. The only difficulties are
water right and left and − of course −
the tree, but the best thing to do is aim
straight at it and, unless you're a professional,
there's not much chance of colliding with it!
The approach is quite tricky as the left half of the
green has a large mound shielding it so, if the pin
is in that quadrant, it’s almost a blind shot.
The 6th 349 yards par 4 on Course B might look totally
innocuous from the raised tee box but this one can bite
back. A lake is positioned at the end of the fairway so a big
hit will mean a wet ball, but a large bunker on the left almost
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
BANGKOK GOLF COURSES
forces the drive out towards
the water. The same lake
shields the right side of the
raised green with a steep
bank that will not hold a
shot leaking right, so maybe a
fairway wood off the tee leaving a short second
shot to the middle of the green is the best bet.
It’s a slippery putting surface so being below
the hole is at a premium.
The 18th 415 yards par 4 on
Course B is a superb finishing hole and
rightly index 2 on this side. With water all
down the right, trees left and a small stream
crossing the fairway some 30 yards from the
green, this hole requires two good shots
for a chance of birdie. Bunkers left along the
tree line and right near the water add to the
complications of the drive; the stream in front
and left of the green will catch the poor second shot.
The only generosity shown is a large and fairly flat green!
The 19th hole
Centred on a semi circular restaurant with large bay windows
overlooking course B, the clubhouse has a comfortable feel.
The main restaurant is spacious with a choice of excellent
food and drinks. Upstairs are rooms for private functions and
the kitchens are more than capable of putting together very
good buffet lunches and dinners.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual
Green fee: Weekdays 1,000 THB, Weekends 2,200 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 700 THB
Facilities: Driving range | Equipment Rental | Pro Shop |
Resident Professional | Restaurant
Contact & location
Tel. +66 (0)2 995 2300-4, Fax. +66 (0)2 995 2305
e. info@ lamlukkagolf.net, w. www.lamlukkagolf.net
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 LOTUS VALLEY PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
BANGKOK GOLF COURSES
Golf Resort

is thin and quite tough just to prove

that a hole does not need to be long
to have a bit of sting in the tail.
The 16th 392 yards par 4 is another dog-leg left
with water all down the left side. A well placed
bunker guards the bail out shot to the right, so
positive thinking is required to get a good drive
off down the middle.

A beautiful rockery edges the water left of the

green and bunkers sit left and right to ensnare a
loose approach, so a slight cut short of the hole will
do the business and get you set up for a birdie.

18 Holes | Par 72 | By Gary Player | Opened 2008 The 19th hole

About the course
Originally opened in 1998, this rebranded and extensively
renovated Gary Player design is one of the best presented
courses on the central plains. Given the flat surroundings the
interesting and enjoyable layout is testament to the course
builder’s abilities. The superintendent deserves credit, too,
for the superb condition of the course, in particular the
greens which run well and read true.
The greens are not generally elevated but slope upwards away
from the player, putting a premium on pitching below the
hole – but good shots will hold. Each par 3 needs different club
selection and shot-making, as each hole is a dissimilar distance;
a couple of reachable par 5s always makes for a fun day out.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 3rd 158 yards par 3 is the first of a very
good set of par 3s. Although short, with
water right and front and bunkers either
side of the neck of the green this hole is
not a ‘gimme’ par; there’s very little bail
out area here too.
The green angles away from you left to
right and depending on the pin position,
it will take a solid shot to
go straight for it. With a couple of tiers on the
green, the slope will take some negotiating.
A warm welcome at the clubhouse is always a good sign and
friendly staff often means that there is a well-run organisation
behind the scenes. The locker rooms are spacious and well
laid out, with a Japanese hot bath available to loosen the
muscles after the game before sampling the culinary delights
of the Lotus Leaf restaurant which serves a whole range of
dishes; the Isan set being a speciality.
There is also a reading room with internet facilities if you
need to email your friends and brag about your score!
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, Family, Corporate
Green fee: Weekdays 2,500 THB, Weekends 3,500 THB
Caddie fee & Golf Cart hire: Included in green fee
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Resident Professional | Restaurant
Contact & location
Course Tel. +66 (0)38 835555, Fax. +66 (0)38 835556
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 712 7177
e. info@lotusvalley.co.th
w. www.lotusvalley.co.th
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The 10th 328 yards par 4 poses an interesting

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challenge to the bigger hitters; risk it and draw a Minburi

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big hit into the green or sink below the waves. It's a Lad
p Suwintavong Rd
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dog-leg left with a lake all down the left and bunkers d
President
straight ahead to catch the long straight drive, so either Golf Course
be brave or hit a little wood for placement. The green Suvarnabhumi Airport

74 75
 MUANG KAEW GOLF PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
BANGKOK GOLF COURSES

narrows and bends left. If

18 Holes | Par 72 | By Lee Schmidt | Opened 1992
About the course
Muang Kaew was always a good course, but after extensive
redesign in 2003, it’s even better. This is a very challenging
layout despite its moderate length off the white tees, but if
you fancy beating yourself up, try the blue tees at 7,015 yards.
The course’s tree and klong-lined holes make this a straight
driver’s playground and numerous raised greens make for a
very difficult layout if chipping is not your strong point.
Promoting itself as the ‘Best Golf in the City’, it’s a mere 20
minutes from central Bangkok and given its proximity to
Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Muang Kaew is a good
choice to grab a round before entering or leaving the city.
Playing the course: White tees
The 3rd 138 yards par 3 is a beautiful little hole but with a
bite. Large trees and bushes surround the back
of the green, as does a nasty bunker, which if
you're unfortunate enough to over-club, will
generally leave you with a downhill lie in the
sand. A small strip of water sits in front of
the green but should not be in play unless
something drastic happens with the tee
shot. More trees and bushes guard the left
as does one of the klongs, which are actually
working waterways so don’t be distracted by
you can clear the bunker,
there’s just one
good hit left to reach the green, but beware of the
small stream that runs in front of it. It’s significantly
raised, so any ball coming in high and short will hit
the bank and roll back down into the water.
The 13th 551 yards par 5 is one of
the more interesting holes, with a
blind drive over the road that leads
into the club; but don’t worry, it’s
protected by a net! Get a line from the
caddie, although a pylon in the distance
is usually a good aiming point. This used to be a
par 4, but the redesign has made a much better
hole out of it as all three (or more) shots to get
to the green will cause some thought. With an
offset left green and water round much of it, a
par is a satisfying experience.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse has also been redeveloped and sports a first
class restaurant just to the right of the main steps to the club,
which serves hearty and/or healthy breakfasts, just what you
need to get the day off to a good start. Lunch and dinner
are also available from a varied menu, but since it’s Thailand,
try the fried chicken with cashew nuts and water chestnuts.
The pro shop is well stocked and carries a nice range of good
quality shirts adorned with the Muang Kaew logo.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual
Green fee: Weekdays 2,500 THB, Weekends 3,500 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 600 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving Range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)2 316 3918-21, Fax. +66 (0)2 316 6749
e. adm@muangkaewgolf.com, w. www.muangkaewgolf.com
Ramkhamhaeng Uni

On Nut-Lat Kra Bang Rd

what sounds like a formula one race; it’s just
Outer Ring Rd

Suvarnabhumi
King Kaew Rd

Suanluang
Sukhumvit Rd

a boat powered by what looks like an aircraft Rama 9 Park

Airport
engine passing by! Central Big C Shell Esso
Tesco Lotus
The 4th 469 yards par 5 is a tempting eagle chance, but Bangna-Trad
7.7km
requires a very accurate tee shot. There’s water all down Jurarat 1 Hospital
the left and, with a set back tee box, it’s a slight dog-leg BITEC The Piyamin
left. Mature trees line the right and, just to make you think,
Nation Hospital GOLF
a fairway bunker sits in the middle, just where the fairway
76 77
 NAVATANEE
Golf Course
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Opened 1973
About the course
Few people could ever say that they had a course specially
designed for a specific purpose, but the founder of this
course, is one of those few. He lovingly created a world
class golf course to host the 1975 World Cup, Thailand’s
first international tournament. It’s a beautiful parkland style
course with the feel that you're not in a huge city sprawl.
Navatanee has been rightly given top rankings in many
golf publications. In Asia’s Top 50 Golf Courses, it ranked the
highest of the courses in Thailand at 14th. The course is open
to members and their guests only. However, overseas visitors
can play mid-week by appointment or by introduction from
a member and − for the connoisseur − it’s a must.
Playing the course: White tees
The 4th 117 yards par 3 is one of those short
ones that the dismissive player often thinks is a
waste of time. However, even though the shot
may be with a wedge in your hands, a tricky
bunker in front will catch anything short,
while difficult fringe rough makes missing
the green a potentially
expensive mistake.
The green slopes
away right, making
the putt a difficult
read too.
The 9th 512 yards par 5 was originally
the finishing hole for the World Cup
and a splendid grandstand hole it
must have been. This hole is all about
placement.
78
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
BANGKOK GOLF COURSES
The drive to a landing area can be awkward
as the fairway runs down to water on the left
before a big second shot over the hazard
to a second landing area, with water again
all along the left side. It’s probably best
to think about where you want the ball to be for each shot,
leaving a relatively straightforward pitch to the green.
The 12th 345 yards par 4 is a short but
testy golf hole, both for the accuracy of the
drive and for how well you hit the second
shot with a short iron. This dog-leg left is
protected by bunkers left, rough for a drive
that's too long and straight, and water
front right of the green. It might be worth
leaving the driver in the bag and playing
a safe shot to the fairway before hitting
the second shot with a slight cut as the
green angles away from you.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse is fairly understated, but this does not detract
from what is a first class golf club. The service, ambiance and
food are very good, as are the locker rooms. The founder,
Khun Sukum, can often be found in the clubhouse or playing
the course. He's a delight to talk to and rightly proud of what
he's achieved here. Rule 8 on the back of the scorecard states,
“It is customary practice that the founder of Navatanee Golf
Course shall have the right to play thru” – a tongue-in-cheek
sense of humour indeed!
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual. Members & guests only
Green fee: Weekdays 3,900 THB. Weekends, members only
Caddie fee & Golf Cart hire: Included in Green Fee
Facilities: Equipment Rental | Pro Shop | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)2 376-1034-6, (0)2 376 1693-6, Fax. +66 (0)2 376 1685
e. info@navatanee.com, w. www.navatanee.com
79
 DIRECTORY
Bangkok
How to get there
Bangkok can be reached by air, rail, road and sea with air being
the most commonly used by international visitors. Bangkok’s
Suvarnabhumi International Airport is directly served by
virtually all of the world’s major airlines, as well as a number
of the smaller ones throughout South East Asia. The airport is
also a destination on regular budget airline routes.
Local transport
There’s plenty of choice for getting around the ‘City of Angels’.
The quickest way to travel is by underground (MRT) or skytrain
(BTS) services, but these do not as yet cover all the districts.
Meter Taxis are a good way of getting from A to B, but check
that the meter is actually started as you set off on your journey
and not still running from the previous passenger!
Bangkok also has a network of buses through its main arteries;
these are cheap alternatives but can become crowded and not
all classes have air-conditioning. There are also non-metered
taxis and tuk-tuks, which both require agreeing the price
beforehand. Last, and not for the faint-hearted, are motorbike
taxis, but these are really best avoided if possible!
Limousines and non-metered taxis are ideal for exploring
out of town and getting to and from the golf courses. They
can be arranged through most of the larger hotels.
There are a number of self-drive car hire companies, including
internationally recognised agencies. An international or local
driving license will be required as well as a valid passport.
For car hire information contact:
Hertz: Suvarnabhumi Int. Airport, Tel. +66 (0)86 779 5456,
Sathorn Road, Tel. +66 (0)2 266 4666
Avis (Thailand): Suvarnabhumi Int. Airport, Tel. +66 (0)84
700 8157-9, Wireless Road, Tel. +66 (0)2 255 5300-4
Bangkok Reservation Centre, Tel. +66 (0)2 251 1131-2
Budget (Thailand): Suvarnabhumi Int. Airport, Tel. +66 (0)89
810 5709, Royal City Avenue, Tel. +66 (0)2 203 0250
Where to eat
The range of choices in the city is vast, ranging from street-
side vendors to Royal Thai Cuisine kitchens. Whatever tickles
those taste buds, it can be found somewhere in Bangkok.
The best way to find what you’re looking for is to wade through
the mass of city guides in book stores and hotel lobbies.
For best information and insight on where and what to eat,
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching during 2011 −
and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
For further information contact the Tourism Authority of
Thailand, Bangkok, Tel. +66 (0)2 250 5500
80
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
BANGKOK DIRECTORY
Hospitals in Bangkok
Although there are many hospitals, a select few offer first class
services, some above and beyond recognised international
standards. The hospitals listed also have a range of specialised
treatment centres with a high standard of care at very
economical prices – all without long waiting lists!
Bangkok International Hospital
Next to Royal City Avenue between Rama IX and
Petchaburi Rd
24 Hr Contacts Centre: From within Thailand,
Tel. 1719; from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 310 3456
Bangkok Golfer Health Centre: In Sports Medicine
Clinic in Rehabilitation Building, Tel. +66 (0)2 310 3139
Bumrungrad International Hospital
In Sukhumvit Soi 3, Tel. +66 (0)2 667 1000
24 Hr Contacts Centre: Tel. +66 (0)2 667 2999
‘Doctor Golf’: Orthopaedic Centre, 2nd flr,
Tel. +66 (0)02 667 1413
Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital
Located between Sukhumvit Soi’s 39 and 49
Tel. +66 (0)2 711 8000
24 Hr Contacts Centre: Tel. +66 (0)2 712 7007
Golf around Bangkok
There are many more golf courses than the ones covered in
this section, some well worth a visit. Bangkok is at the core
of Thailand’s golf scene and, with over 50 courses within an
hour of the city, it’s merely a case of choosing what suits your
schedule, wallet or location. Try Krung Kavee Golf Course
& Country Club Estate, with some of the best golf course
food available anywhere; the restaurant has even featured
on local TV! Heading east along the Bangna-Trad Highway,
the Vintage Club is always in good condition, and Summit
Windmill Golf Club, an excellent Faldo course, is worth a trip.
An amusing course to play is the Royal Thai Air Force Kantarat
Golf Course set right in the middle of the two runways at Don
Muang Airport. It’s a pretty straight up and down course, but
fun to play. Just watch the pull hook at one of the par 3's as
the airliners sometimes have to wait on the runway here and
a bad shot will catch you paying for a new 747 windscreen!
If getting out to play a full round proves difficult, Bangkok
PG seems to have more driving ranges per square kilometre
than any other city; there must be at least one per district and
many have space for 100 bays or so, as well as professional
teachers and often a small pro shop. There really is no excuse
not to hit a few balls on a regular basis!
81
 INTRODUCTION
to Eastern Region
The Eastern Region
This golfing destination stretches over Chonburi and Rayong
provinces and across to Chantaburi up on the border
with Cambodia. With improved road access and the new
Suvarnabhumi International Airport near Chonburi, this
region is now even more convenient for weekend travel,
both from within Thailand and from the region.
Pattaya City, and its southern neighbouring beach of
Jomtien, are the main tourist destinations in this region and
have been bustling since they came to fruition as centres of
R & R for US troops during the Vietnam War.
One of the things that Pattaya is still noted for is its raunchy
night life, but there are also a number of day time attractions
Phoenix Golf & Country Club
82
82
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
EASTERN REGION
including scuba diving, snorkelling and sailing. Dive boats
and tour boats with snorkelling gear on board go out daily
to the outer islands, where there are some interesting wrecks
and reefs. This is a popular and convenient place to learn
these sports.
Other popular waters sports out of Pattaya include deep sea
sport fishing.
A healthy sailing community runs races out of both the
Royal Varuna Yacht Club and Ocean Marina, the latter being
the venue for monthly races and the annual Top of the Gulf
Regatta. Charter yachts are available from Ocean Marina to
explore the coastline round towards Cambodia, including
the Marine National Park of the Koh Chang Archipelago.A
selection of all-round tourist-related amenities also include
floral gardens, cultural centres and much more – in fact
everything you would expect from a major tourism area.
An excursion with a difference is dolphin watching in the
estuary of the Bang Pakong River, just before crossing into
Chonburi Province. These estuarine dolphins have been
arriving here for years and there are well organised boat trips
run by the villagers from the piers on the river mouth.
Excellent restaurants, pubs, and a wide range of hotels and
guest houses are available in both Pattaya and Jomtien and,
of the two, the long sandy beach of Jomtien has a more
family orientated lifestyle which is a trend that grows as you
heading along the coast towards the Cambodian border.
The area around Pattaya and Jomtien is also fast developing
as a prime residential property district, with condominiums
being the flavour of the moment. A number of high-end
condo projects are currently on the market and being
snapped up almost as quickly as they can be built.
Rayong Green Valley Country Club
83
83
 PHOENIX GOLF
& Country Club
27 Holes | Par 72 | By Denis Griffiths | Opened 1993
About the course
Overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, this meandering course
is the perfect place for visitors to enjoy three very different
layouts, any combination of which makes for a great day out.
It’s also near enough to the beaches at Pattaya to make it the
most convenient course to get to. Playing from the white
tees on any combination of the three 9's is easy distance-
wise, as 6,400 yards will be the longest, but there are enough
challenging holes to make this an interesting game for most
levels of player.
Some of the ladies red tees are particularly short and one or
two of the par 4's are even reachable with a drive, so beware;
don’t play matchplay against the ladies on this course!
Playing the course: White tees
The 5th 539 yards par 5 on the Lakes Course is not overly
difficult unless you hit a poor drive. With trees and out of
bounds all along the right and a large bunker
protecting the left side, it still needs care and
attention. The second shot can’t be too loose as
there’s a water hazard past the bunker as well as
the out of bounds line and a ditch lurking on the
right. The green slopes left, with bunkers short right
and long left and, if the pin is to the
right, it’s actually quite a tough shot
with playing for the middle being a
good choice.
The 7th 482 yards par 5 on the Mountain Course
is a good risk-reward hole for bigger hitters, but
with a narrow fairway with water right and a tree
at the edge of the hazard, the need for accuracy is
paramount. Get past the tree, and an inviting shot
with a fairway wood over the water, across the dog-
84
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
EASTERN REGION
leg right to an uphill green, awaits you. If
not, lay up and make a precise short iron
shot to the raised green. It’s hard to keep
the ball on the green, but there’s little
trouble short or long so don’t be afraid.
Par here is a good score.
The 6th 388 yards par 4 on the Ocean Course, a dog-leg left,
is a tricky index 3 hole. A string of bunkers and out
of bounds protects the obvious Tiger-line over the
bunkers, but too straight a hit will see you run
out of fairway and into trees. A draw round the
bunkers to the downhill landing area is perfect,
leaving a short iron to a less than friendly
green. With bunkers left and right and a two
tiered structure, this green can be nasty if your
approach is wrong. Leave the ball short and below
the hole for a chance of birdie or par.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse is one of those massive affairs and it’s really
unclear what all the space is actually used for! However, the
locker rooms are very well appointed with nice touches,
such as a sitting room to relax in or just have a little nap after
showering. The restaurant is also very pleasant with spacious
seating and unobtrusive televisions usually showing the
day's sport. The choice of cuisine is more than adequate
and all very reasonably priced. A well-stocked pro shop just
rounds off what is, all in all, a very good facility.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual
Green fee: Weekdays 2,000 THB, Weekends 2,500 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 700 THB
Facilities: Driving range | Equipment Rental | Pro Shop |
Restaurant
Contact & location
Tel. +66 (0)38 239392-5, (0)38 239400
Fax. +66 (0)38 239402
85
 RAYONG GREEN VALLEY
Country Club
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Peter Thomson & Michael
Wolveridge | Opened 1989
About the course
Rayong Green Valley Country Club was originally 27 holes
but changed to 18 when a new clubhouse was built. With
its natural beauty and resplendent flower beds, it scrubs up
really nicely into a thoroughly enjoyable walk with enough
bite to a number of holes, making an excellent challenge for
most levels of golfer.
The white tees are a modest 6,309 yards long but there is
enough subtlety in the design to make this a fine test of
golf. At 6,980 yards from the blue tee, it’s not long enough
to challenge the professionals, but will give the single figure
handicappers a good run for their money.
Playing the course: White tees
The 3rd 329 yards par 4 looks like an inviting
birdie opportunity with a relatively easy drive up
a hill with little in the way of blocking obstacles,
apart from a big tree on the right. However, take
a really good look at the incline of the green
and where the pin is placed before you take your
second shot. It’s a massive slope
down from top right to bottom
left and has 3 or 4 putt written
all over it if you place the ball on
the wrong tier.
The 5th 425 yards par 4 plays
tough for everybody and is
rightly index 1. Uphill and over
a lake for the drive, with trees all along the
right hand side, keep the ball on the fairway
and a little to the left. It’s then a reasonable hit
with a mid iron to a crowned green, which from
86
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
EASTERN REGION
this sort of distance and elevation,
makes it one club more than you
think and very difficult to stop on.
Being a bit short in the neck of the
green is a better place than many.
The 16th 144 yards par 3 plays uphill to
another wickedly sloped green, although
it’s probably an 8 or 7 iron for the tee shot
so not too difficult to reach. There’s a nasty
little lake right to catch a wayward shot, but
it’s the slope of the green that makes this hole
challenging. Unless you’re directly below the pin,
there’s always going to be considerable break on
the putt and, if it’s downhill too, then it’s hard to
get the right combination of speed and line.
The 19th hole
Rayong Green Valley Country Club shares its facilities with St
Andrews Hill 2000 as the two courses are side-by-side. These
include the clubhouse, a choice of three restaurants and a
comfortable hotel situated conveniently a short walk away.
The dining facilities are good and serve a range of Thai and
International cuisine, so there's no need to leave the property
if you're staying here, unless a night out in the bright lights
of Pattaya appeals. Green fee and accommodation packages
are often offered here.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, Family, Corporate
Green fee: Weekdays 2,000 THB, Weekends 2,500 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 600 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & location
Tel. +66 (0)38 893838-40, (0)81 940 8181, (0)81 940 8228
Fax. +66 (0)38 893845
e. golfing@standrews2000golf.com
w. www.standrews2000golf.com/2004/rgv-home.php
87
 ST ANDREWS HILL 2000
18 Holes | Par 74 | By Desmond Muirhead
Opened 2000
About the course
This is as near to a links-style layout as possible, but including
a fair amount of water and two par 6's. The course is well
designed, beautifully maintained and scenically superb to
play on − a must for the true golf addict. It should get you
excited and thinking about every shot and, if you play well,
will be one you'll remember. The golf here is as good as it
gets in the region.
The score card states that the course is unsuitable for over
18 handicaps with a rule that all balls in the heavy rough be
played as lateral water hazards, with 1 shot penalty rather
than stroke and distance for a lost ball.
Playing the course: Official tees
The 4th 818 yards par 6 is a great test of
strategy and shot making. The drive has to
carry about 200 yards over a lake to a narrow
landing strip – too big a hit will run out of
fairway. The hole then turns right over water
to a more generous landing area, but is difficult
to judge. Alternatively, lay up along the fairway
leaving a longer third. Whichever, it’s a long
precise shot with water left, just where the
fairway narrows. The green has a protective
rear back but there’s a bunker short left and
the lake is also still in play!
The 9th 380 yards par 4 is a great dog-leg right initially
uphill, but then down and over a ravine to a raised green for
the second shot. The inside of the dog-leg is protected by
bunkers, so keep left and make sure you hit the fairway. The
second shot is uphill so a half to full club more should see you
hit the green – but don’t be left, as the nearby forest is ever
88
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
EASTERN REGION
ready to swallow up errant
balls. The green slopes
towards you, so being
below the hole is good. Par
is a good score here, but the
hole will keep you thinking.
The 18th 515 yards par 5 is a
great finishing hole by virtue
of the choices of play. The
fairway is split by a rockery,
which is best avoided as most balls ending
up in it are unplayable. Hitting the right side of
the fairway is advised. It’s then split by a bank,
the left being protected by water, the right by a
hilly forest. A 4 or 5 iron is most likely the correct
selection. For the third, consider a wedge or 9 iron
to a small target guarded by a bunker left and a
slope to water and forest right. This hole played
on, or near, handicap is immensely satisfying.
The 19th hole
St Andrews shares its facilities with neighbouring course,
Rayong Green Valley Country Club. These include the
clubhouse, a choice of three restaurants and a perfectly
comfortable hotel; adequate for a one or two night stay to
play both courses and get the best out of a visit to this area.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Not available
Green fee: Weekdays 2,500 THB, Weekends 3,000 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 600 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & location
Tel. +66 (0)38 893838-40, (0)81 940 8181
Fax. +66 (0)38 893842, (0)38 893845
e. golfing@standrews2000golf.com
w. www.standrews2000golf.com
89
 DIRECTORY
Eastern Region
How to get there
It's possible to access Pattaya and its environs by air, rail and
road; air is the most practical.
By air: Pattaya is best served by Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi
International Airport. There is also an airport at U-Tapao
served by Bangkok Airways. The three main carriers are:
Bangkok Airways: Within Thailand, Tel. 1771
from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 265 5555
Nok Air: Within Thailand, Tel. 1318
from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955
Thai Airways International: Tel. +66 (0)2 356 1111
By train: One train on the eastern line departs Bangkok’s Hua
Lumphong Railway Station daily and takes three hours to
reach Chonburi, three and a half to reach Pattaya. For further
information regarding train services contact Hua Lumphong
Railway Station, Tel. +66 (0)2 223 7010.
By road: The drive from Bangkok to Pattaya averages ninety
minutes from Suvarnabhumi International Airport and an
additional hour from downtown Bangkok.
Local transport
Aside from getting to and from Bangkok, limousines and taxis
are ideal for exploring the region and getting to and from the
golf courses; they can be arranged through most hotels.
Self drive car hire: There are a number of local car hire
companies including internationally recognized agencies.
An international or local driving license will be required as
well as valid passport.
Hertz: Pattaya Office, Tel. +66 (0)38 710474
Avis (Thailand): Pattaya Office
Tel. +66 (0)38 361627-8, 428755-9
Budget (Thailand): Pattaya Office, Tel. +66 (0)38 710717-8
Where to eat
The range of restaurants around Pattaya is all-encompassing.
Expensive eateries with fine International cuisine are
everywhere, with menus originating from virtually every
country. Local food is well represented too, with specialties
including hot and spicy dry curries, originating from Laos.
The seafood restaurants in the small coastal town of Bang
Saen are magnificent, both for quality and price. Some of the
best and cheapest crabs are found just outside Rayong at a
small restaurant on the way to the Rayong Resort Hotel. Just
look for all the parked cars, as this place is hugely popular!
For best information and insight on where and what to eat,
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching during 2011 −
and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
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EASTERN REGION DIRECTORY
Other golf courses
There are two unlisted golf courses worth a mention: Royal
Lakeside Golf Club, near the dolphin pier on the Bang Pakong
River, to the north of Chonburi, and Bangpakong Riverside
Country Club a bit further up the river.
The former has a seaside feel to it with lots of palm trees along
the fairways; much of the course is bordered by a marina. It’s
a flat and gentle layout but a nice course all the same.
Bangkok Pattaya Hospital
On Sukhumvit Road
24 Hr Contacts Centre: From within Thailand, Tel. 1719;
from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)38 259999
Pattaya International Hospital
On Beach Road
24 Hr Emergency contact: Tel. +66 (0)38 428374
Chantaburi Bangkok Hospital
In Taluang Road, opposite Tesco Lotus
24 Hr Contacts Centre: From within Thailand, Tel. 1719;
from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)39 319888
Bangpakong Riverside has possibly the most generous
fairways in the neighbourhood, so it’s an excellent course to
get some confidence in your driving. Three of the par 5’s are
all good golf holes worth a crack at eagle in the right wind
conditions.
There are at least fifteen other courses in this region, most
within reasonably easy reach of Pattaya. Some of the less
fashionable tracks stand out, and courses like Greenwood
Golf & Resort and neighbouring Treasure Hill Golf & Country
Club are such great designs that they are well worth playing.
Peter Thomson’s design at Greenwood is an excellent piece
of work with a plethora of pot bunkers, all in the right places,
to make the course a real challenge.
Bangpra International Golf Club is one of the older
established courses in Thailand and is a testing layout
with mature trees in strategic places, some long holes to
negotiate and very difficult crowned greens that make it
hard to stop the ball.
For further information contact the Tourism Authority of
PG Thailand, Chanthaburi, Tel. +66 (0)38 655420-1, 664585
Pattaya, Tel. +66 (0)38 427667
91
 INTRODUCTION PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
KHAO YAI REGION
to Khao Yai Region

Traditionally, grapes for wine-making have been grown

between the 30th-50th parallels in both the northern and
southern hemispheres, but Thailand has pioneered wine
production in a narrow band in the north between the 14th
to 18th parallels. Years of research, testing and development
have opened up new frontiers, so a visit is more than just a
standard winery trip.
Just up the road from the vineyards is a really delightful place
full of character. The Rabiang Dao Garden Resort is set on the
side of a hill; what makes it different is that the rooms, or
chalets, are actually converted rice barges! Some boast two
rooms or more and, with a charming little swimming pool
and great view over the valley, make an excellent place for
family stays.

The Khao Yai Region In fact accommodation all around Khao Yai is plentiful and
ranges from cheap guest houses to grand hotels.
This golfing region is mainly in the provinces of Nakon Nayok
and Nakon Ratchasima, with the whole area having an alpine Haew Narok Waterfall
feel to it. This is not just because it’s hilly and cooler than
the central plains, but also because it sports dairy herds,
numerous chalet-style buildings and a handful of very
commendable local vineyards and winery’s.
The dominant feature of the region is Khao Yai National Park,
a world heritage site and one of Thailand’s biggest wildlife
parks at over 2,000 square kilometres.
Lying in the western end of the Dongrak Mountain range,
with peaks rising over 1,300 metres, this region’s lower
temperatures make it a refreshing change from Bangkok and
surrounding areas.
The National Park is easily accessible and visitors are rewarded
with admirable viewpoints and walking trails, highlighted
by spectacular scenery such as Haew Narok Waterfall, an
impressive sight when in full spate.
A vast array of wildlife, including tigers and other big cats, all
co-exist in the park’s forest along with larger residents such
as elephants and black bears. Bird life includes hornbills,
pheasants, eagles and many smaller species, both resident
and migratory. Tigers are only seen on very rare occasions
but sightings of deer, birds, monkeys and some of the smaller
cats are all fairly common.
There’s plenty to do other than play golf so, if a trip up here
is on the schedule, be sure to explore the area around your
chosen golf course.
If you have time, PB Valley Khao Yai Winery and GranMonte
Vineyard are both worth visiting. Both situated on the edge
of the Khao Yai National Park, 300-350 metres above sea
level, this is the home of 'new latitude wines'.
92 93
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 ROYAL HILLS GOLF
Resort & Spa
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Nelson & Wright | Opened 1992
About the course
Set in the southern foothills of Khao Yai, this scenic resort
course is beautifully laid out over hills, streams, waterfalls
and a profusion of trees, many of which are original.
The course has always been a good test of golf and it seems
to get better as the years go by, with every hole presenting
a slightly different challenge and, with one or two generous
par 5’s and short 3’s, it’s also a lot of fun.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 2nd 513 yards par 5 is short but delightfully tricky. A
blind drive up a hill with a deep ravine and bunker left to
catch the wayward hook, the second shot has
to clear a small stream which should be simple
enough, but the fairway narrows beyond it, so
placement is crucial.
Bunkers on both sides guard a nasty little green
and even if you miss it, and the bunkers, the
chip will not be easy as the ground to the right
is often a bit bare, so don’t expect a good lie.
The green itself is tricky, with lots of borrow,
depending on the pin position.
The 15th 352 yards par 4 is a short
dog-leg right, not too difficult, just
a nice-looking hole. The driving area takes
you over water to a sloped landing area
with a bunker and rough left and water
opposite, which the fairway slopes towards.
Consider a fairway wood off the tee to get in
position and avoid the hazards. The second
shot should not be too complicated, but beware
of the bunkers, particularly the one on the left; if
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
KHAO YAI REGION GOLF COURSES
you go in, you are faced with a difficult
shot with the water facing you and a
downward sloping green.
The 18th 389 yards par 4 is a dog-leg
right with a large lake right, and a bunker ahead
just where the fairway narrows to catch the bigger
hitters! It’s possible to flirt with the sand from the
white tees and probably safe from the blues, so a
driver should be okay.
The approach demands an accurate iron, as water
lurks right of the green and three well-placed
bunkers guard the left; not nice to be in, as
anything thinned out will probably go for a swim.
A good shot is facing the green sloping away from
you with plenty of borrow.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse is functional, with a range of different eateries
including a coffee shop, café, indoor and open-air terraced
restaurants specialising in Thai and Asian cuisine; there's also
an international menu and facilities for banquets.
Aside from the comprehensive spa, there’s a large swimming
pool and Jacuzzi, fitness centre, snooker and pool, table
tennis, and even a playground for the children. A range of
accommodation is available, including a well appointed
hotel and a range of spacious houses for families.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Not available
Green fee: Weekdays 700 THB, Weekends 1,300 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 600 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Equipment rental | Pro shop |
Restaurant
Contact & location
Course Tel. +66 (0)37 385090-3, Fax. +66 (0)37 385094
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 722 7206-10
Fax. +66 (0)2 722 7212
e.info@royalhillsresort.com, w.www.royalhillsresort.com
95
 SIR JAMES COUNTRY CLUB
Forest Hills
27 Holes | Par 72 | By Veerayuth Phetbuasak & John
Rogers | Opened 1994
About the course
The course, set in the foothills of Khao Yai National Park, has
an alpine feel, with diary herds and chalets nearby. Named
after Sir James Holt, but more commonly known as Forest
Hills, it has three distinct 9’s and at 6,520 yards from the white
tees and 5,649 yards from the ladies tee, it’s not short for the
average player. The par 3’s are all relatively straightforward,
and two of the par 5’s are reachable in two shots for a
medium hitter, but it’s the elevation changes that make this
an interesting design. Solid shot-making is required to shoot
a good score as few of the greens are easy − many elevated
or sloping, making good approach play at a premium.
Playing the course: White Tees
The 3rd 500 yards par 5 on the A Course is a tempting,
but tricky eagle chance. The drive is downhill over
a ravine to a rise sloping down towards water − not
within reach of the drive but it catches a poor second
shot. Drive over the rise and down the fairway, then it’s
no more than a 3 iron or rescue club to the green. The
only issue might be a sloped lie and several bunkers
to clear before the green. If necessary, lay up over the
water hazard and pitch below the hole as the green
has a severe slope towards you. If you can get
on in two shots and keep the ball below the
hole, you could be on for an eagle.
The 7th 339 yards par 4 on the C Course
appears short for modern golf, but beware
– it can be a nightmare if you get it wrong. From
the tee, it’s a blind drive up a rise. The dangers
you won’t see are a lake to the right that runs all
the way up to the green, as well as a bunker left.
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
KHAO YAI REGION GOLF COURSES
If you have time, walk up the fairway about
30 yards and have a look at the layout before
you drive; it might save you some trouble.
The shot is a cut or a big hit past the bunker
aiming slightly to the left to avoid any sniff of
the water. Once this has been negotiated, it’s
a relatively straightforward short iron to the green, with an
ideal spot being below the hole.
The 9th 375 yards par 4 on the C Course is a splendid
hole to make you concentrate at the end of the
round. It’s a dog-leg left with a tree on the left side
to force the shot to the right which, however, flirts
with out of bounds. The answer is a 5 wood to the
fairway, which is generous past the tree, then a 7 or 8
iron to a flat green above you, making it a difficult shot
to stop. Hitting the bank in front of the green will not
help as it slopes − so make sure you hit a full iron, give the
putt a firm stroke and enjoy the glow of a good finish.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse is tacked on to the hotel and has a veranda
overlooking the 9th hole, where players relax after their
game. If you prefer air conditioning, there's a restaurant
behind the veranda that serves meals all day. This area
of Khao Yai is famous for its beef and dairy farms − and its
steaks. The chef at the clubhouse takes full advantage and
does a very reasonable job with almost any kind of cut you
desire − or he can do tasty fish steaks if that appeals.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Not available
Green fee: Weekdays 800 THB, Weekends 1,400 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB Golf Cart hire: 500 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro shop | Resident Professional | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)36 343200, Fax. +66 (0)36 341732
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 3195256-8
Fax. +66(0)2 3195256
e. mail@sirjamesresort.com, w. www. sirjamesresort.com
97
 DIRECTORY
Khao Yai Region
How to get there
This region can be reached by rail and road.
By train: Although there are three stations in the vicinity,
this is not the most efficient way to get there as a pickup will
need to be arranged at the destination.
Trains depart on the north eastern line from Bangkok’s Hua
Lumphong Railway Station and stops off at Saraburi which
takes two and a half hours to reach, Muak Lek which takes
three and a half hours (and has a very limited service) and
Pak Chong which takes over four hours.
For further information regarding train services contact Hua
Lumphong Railway Station, Tel. +66 (0)2 223 7010.
By road: A relatively easy 90-minute drive from Bangkok.
Local transport
As well as getting to and from Bangkok, limousines and taxis
best serve as local transport for exploring the region and
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
KHAO YAI REGION DIRECTORY
Hospitals
Although there are hospitals in the towns of Muak Lek,
Nakorn Ratchasima and Saraburi the facilities are basic. It
is better to seek attention at the hospitals in Bangkok. For
details see page 93.
Other courses
There are several other courses in the general vicinity that
warrant a mention. In the Nakhon Ratchasima area are Voyage
Panorama Resort & Golf Club, Bonanza Golf & Country Club
and Friendship Meadows Country Club.
The National Parks of Thailand
Thailand’s National Parks form part of the country’s
heritage. There are presently 103 of these protected
areas, evenly distributed throughout the Kingdom
covering an area of more than 38,695 sq km.

Vachiratharn waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang mai

getting to and from the golf courses; they can be arranged
through most of the local hotels.
Self drive car hire: Local car hire is available from hotels and
guest houses but there are no internationally recognized
agencies in the area; the nearest are located in Bangkok.
Hertz: Bangkok office, Sathorn Road, Tel. +66 (0)2 266 4666
Avis (Thailand): Bangkok office in Wireless Road
Tel. +66 (0)2 255 5300-4.
Budget (Thailand): Bangkok office in Royal City Avenue
Tel. +66 (0)2 203 0250
Where to eat
This region is renowned for its beef and dairy farming. The
best known farm is the Choke Chai Ranch, where visitors can
act out their fantasies as cowboys and join in the activities of a
working ranch before tucking into a hearty meal of the ranch's
own produce, right down to delicious home made ice cream! The Parks encompass every type of topography found
GranMonte Vineyard has a shop purveying fine wine, in Thailand, from mountain scenery in the north to
homemade biscuits and snacks, as well as a superb Italian coastal mangroves in the south. They are ideal places
restaurant, Vin Cotto, serving some of the best steak in for the visitor to enjoy, and learn about, a vast variety
Thailand. Nearby PB Valley Winery also has a good restaurant, of protected Thai flora and fauna: Everything from wild
the Great Hornbill Grill, overlooking the vineyards, offering orchids and waterfalls to butterflies and tigers.
daily cooking demonstrations. There’s also an onsite shop
Many of the Parks have travelling service centres, usually
selling fruit juices, wines and preserves.
located near the Park’s office. Officials there provide
For best information and insight on where and what to eat, visitors with useful information and tips about the local
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching during 2011 − PG area and how to best enjoy it. This includes specific points
and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com of interest such as beaches, caves, nature trails, waterfalls,
where the best viewpoints are and how to get to them.
For further information contact the Tourism Authority of For more information on the National Parks of Thailand
Thailand, Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat), Tel. +66 (0)44 213666, visit their website: www.dnp.go.th
Nakhon Nayok, Tel. +66 (0)37 312282
98 99
 INTRODUCTION
to Northern Region
Mae Jo Golf Club & Resort
Bo Sang
San Kamphaeng
Gassan Lake City Golf Club & Resort
Chiangmai Inthanon Golf
&Natural Resort
Northern Region
Together, the provinces of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
share around one quarter of Thailand’s landmass and this
mountainous, lush region could be described as tailor-made
for tourists, with its myriad natural and man-made attractions.
Chiang Mai City provides excellent opportunities for bargains
in-hand crafted silk parasols, wood carvings and silverware,
the majority of which come from the nearby villages of Bo
Sang and San Kamphaeng, both of which are worth a visit.
If you’re looking to furnish your home, in Thailand or overseas,
you need go no further to find some great pieces of timber
furniture at a fraction of the price you’ll pay elsewhere for
the same item. Furniture crafted from reclaimed teakwood
is all the rage today, as effective measures have finally
been implemented to protect and conserve Thailand’s fast-
disappearing forests and teak trees.
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
NORTHERN REGION
Located 14kms from the city is Chiang Mai’s most eminent
temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which sits 1,676 metres
above sea level, or roughly halfway up the mountain of Doi
Suthep. The temple’s golden pagoda contains a Buddha relic
and is highly revered amongst Buddhists around the world.
Over 300 steps lead up to the temple, which affords splendid
vistas over the once-walled city.
To the southwest of Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National
Park contains Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon,
which climbs to 2,565 metres. Over 300 species of birds,
accompanied by a healthy variety of wildlife including deer,
gibbons, wild boar and snakes, are all supported beneath
the forest canopy. The park, referred to by many as 'The
roof of Thailand', experiences a very different climate from
the surrounding plains; the mountainous regions can drop
below freezing, whereas the lowlands enjoy a somewhat
warmer and drier climate.
The city of Chiang Rai is the capital and namesake of Thailand’s
northernmost province, which was established in 1910 after
being part of the kingdom of Lanna Thai for many centuries.
The landscape here differs greatly; the east is relatively flat as
opposed to the west’s mountainous terrain. The highest point
is the peak of Doi Tung mountain at 1,322 metres, where the
temple Wat Phra That Doi Tung oversees the area.
This province is the gateway to the notorious ‘Golden Triangle’,
where the local population once earned their living from the
production of opium. Nowadays the former poppy fields
have been transformed into prosperous floral and market
gardens and, due to the milder climate, the villagers cultivate
a variety of produce not generally associated with the tropics.
Amongst the exotic flowers, fruit and vegetables such as
apples, grapes, potatoes and strawberries all flourish.
Mae Jo Golf Club & Resort
101
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 MAE JO GOLF CLUB PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
NORTHERN REGION GOLF COURSES
& Resort

Located only a short distance from the heart

of Chiang Mai City, Mae Jo features a modern
Lanna-styled resort, which was opened in
2008, comprising of 51 rooms with a choice
of superior or grand deluxe rooms and
even suites. All accommodations have
either course, lake or mountain views.
Mae Jo also boasts enough facilities to ensure that the whole
family has a great time, there’s a swimming pool with pool-side
bar, games and massage rooms which punctuate a central
courtyard garden. For the energetic there’s lawn tennis court,
with biking and kayaking for the more adventurous.
Playing the course: Yellow tees
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Seni Thirawat | Opened 2004 The 5th 374 yards par 4 might give you a bit
of tree trouble off the tee if straightness is
About the course not your strong point; the left side is heavily
Mae Jo Golf Club is clearly a gem in the northern crown and wooded and mango trees line the right side of
although perhaps not as well known as some other courses the fairway.
in this region, it deserves a visit; many who have played this
A wayward or short drive will leave you with a lay-
course speak very highly of it. Situated behind the university
up as a large lake sits at the end of the fairway and
of the same name, it's closer to Chiang Mai town than many
effectively guards the green. It is only a short iron
so is convenient – a mere 20 minutes from the airport and
to get on but beware the bunker front right and any
ideal for the first game on a tour of the north.
shot over the back; chipping back towards water is
The course features countless fruit trees that line the fairways never much fun.
giving it a mature feel and, at several holes round the course,
The 9th 373 yards par 4 is one that will ask the golfer to
elevated tees afford beautiful views of Doi Suthep, the
make a decision as to how much to cut off the drive since it
mountain that overlooks the city of Chiang Mai.
is a dog-leg right with water much of the way down the right

102
102 103
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 MAE JO GOLF CLUB PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
NORTHERN REGION GOLF COURSES
& Resort

side. Anything too ambitious will be a wet
ball, but hit it straight and long and a
short approach awaits you. Two bankers
protect the green however, so any bail
out is best left short, but unless the pin
is back right, you should be able to get
there safely and make the
all important birdie or par.
The 11th 312 yards par
4 might tempt the bigger
hitters to cut the dog-leg left
and go straight at the green.
However, a mistake on a short hole looks
quite foolish if you get it wrong so a longish
iron might be the answer to play for position
before hitting a short iron to the green, avoiding
bunkers either side of it. The green has a hump
in the middle so check the pin position carefully
before deciding where to place the ball.
protects the right side. In addition to the
elevation drop, shifting winds on some
days make club selection all important, but
as with many par 3s, the trouble is short so
being a little overzealous won’t do too
much damage to the scorecard.
The 19th hole
An attractive contemporary clubhouse, again in Lanna style, sits
on a slight rise overlooking the course and provides a perfect
setting for a relaxing drink or meal after the golf. No matter
how long or short a stay, the staff take pride in ensuring that
the duration is as comfortable and as enjoyable as possible.
The terraced restaurant has both indoor and al fresco
dining and serves a comprehensive selection of dishes with
northern style cuisine leading the specialities on offer here.
Some of these might be a little on the spicy side for some
palates but as with all Thai food, there will be a few dishes
that delight the taste buds. The poolside-bar serves drinks,
ice creams and a variety of snacks until the late hours.

Signature Hole The sun sets behind the mountain ranges around Doi Suthep
providing a perfect back drop for a few refreshments on the
The 14th 164 yards par 3 is one of the best
par 3s in the north. An elevated tree top terrace, by the pool, at the Green Side Lounge, or in the
drinks kiosk allows a great view over the Courtyard Garden.
hole to the mountains so take a look and get Memberships & facilities
some inspiration before hitting a mid iron
Memberships available: Individual
over the large waste area that runs all the way
from the tee to the front of the green. Green fee: Weekdays 1,800 THB, Weekends 2,400 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB
A tiny bail out area should encourage a committed Golf Cart hire: 600 THB
shot to the flag but beware a large bunker that
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Resident Professional | Restaurant |
Massage
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)53 354431-2
Fax. +66 (0)53 354433
e. info@maejogolfclub.com
w. www.maejogolfclub.com
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104
104 105
 CHIANGMAI INTHANON
Golf & Natural Resort
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Supachai Silamom | Opened 2009
About the course
Chiangmai Inthanon Golf and Natural Resort is a recent
addition to Chiangmai’s golf scene. It’s a scenic delight with
panoramic vistas of Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest mountain,
dominating the background. At 6,548 yards off the regular
white tees, it’s a pleasant layout with a mix of par 3 lengths and
styles. A few strong holes will examine your game, but there
are a few more leisurely ones to enjoy as well! Being new, the
course is in good condition and well worth a trip to soak up
the serenity of this part of the country.
Playing the course: White tees
The 7th 359 yards par 4, whilst short, needs a bit
of planning. Although the fairway looks generous,
trees split it into two, the left being the easier
approach shot, but with the risk of a dunking in
the lake. Taking the right side of the trees leaves
the more difficult second shot and risks a bunker.
The green is half surrounded by a lake and has
two back bunkers – a blessing given that short
here means wet. When the trees are fully grown,
this will be a hole to be reckoned with – although
arguably it is already!
The 13th 368 yards par 4 will test the aqua phobic
golfer’s ability to focus on a couple of clean strikes
to get on in regulation. A right to left dog-leg with
water all along the right side would tend to force
the player to steer left but a bunker guards this
option, so a brave straight drive is what the course
designer is asking for. Negotiate that part and you
are faced with something like a 6 or 7 iron to an
island green essentially, the right side of which
is shielded by bunkers. There is no bail out
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
NORTHERN REGION GOLF COURSES
here so a committed shot to the middle
of the green will get you past one of the
more testing holes on the course.
The 17th 370 yards par 4 can be one of those
deceptively tough holes towards the end of
a round that might just bite if not treated with
respect. It is a dog-leg right with an out of bounds
line all down the left, a lake in front of the tee and sand
guarding the corner as the hole turns right. Getting the
drive right is key to setting up an amenable approach
to a raised green, but bunkers await either side and
with no easy view of the bottom of the flagstick, belief
in the yardage and precision is needed to score well.
A pleasant view over the jungle towards Doi Inthanon
awaits at the top of the rise.
The 19th hole
The club house is refreshingly different with its beautiful
wooden pillars and flooring. Perched on a rise overlooking
part of the course – the style would not be out of place if this
were a game resort in Africa. With well presented cuisine,
both Thai and International, on offer and the usual range
of refreshments, the dining room or the terrace are ideally
situated giving the visitor a sunset view of the mountains in
the background and the final holes. The locker rooms and pro
shop are well up to standard and a driving range and resort
complete the facilities.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, Family, Corporate
Green fee: Weekdays 1,800 THB, Weekends 2,400 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 600 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving Range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)53 267115-6, Fax. +66 (0)53 267114
e. booking@chiangmaiinthanongolfresort.com
w. www.chiangmaiinthanongolfresort.com
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107
 CHIANGMAI HIGHLANDS
Golf & Spa Resort
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Lee Schmidt & Brian Curley
Opened 2005
About the course
Chiangmai Highlands is a championship course operated by
the same owner as Muang Kaew in Bangkok. The layout is
an exciting challenge and the course is in pristine condition,
with well constructed drainage to ensure the seasonal rains
don’t spoil the player’s round. There’s plenty of water in play
and an abundance of bunkers, such that on a few holes the
approach to the green will need a really accurate wedge
or short iron to avoid all the traps. The greens are fast and
roomy making approach shots and putting important keys
to a rewarding round.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 1st 378 yards par 4 is a dog-leg left downhill
with guarding fairway bunkers. There’s a generous
landing area, but wayward drives are punished
severely by deep bunkers. You need a long tee
shot to get in position, but be wary of the out
of bounds markers to the right. The second
shot is onto a slightly elevated green protected
by one bunker either side and,
since most of the traps are verging
on pot bunkers, take care with the
approach. The green is tiered with
the back level raised, making longer
putts extremely challenging.
The 13th 384 yards par 4 is relatively straightforward
if you hit the right shots! A good drive from an elevated
tee out on the perimeter of the course to a generous
fairway will seem to fly forever, leaving a short or mid
iron for the approach shot. The green is protected by
bunkers and a large lake running down most of the
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utting
left side and round the back of the putting
surface, so err on the short side if at all.
m
Realistically, the lake is not in play from
the tee, but it does prey on the mind
for the second shot, particularly
those fighting a serial hook.
Although the 18th 531 yards par 5 signature
hole has a stroke index of 8, it needs to be played
carefully. It’s one of those holes that you’ll want
to go straight back and play again, as there’s little
clue of what’s ahead. The tee shot is set well back
and a good clean straight hit will set you up nicely.
The second is a blind shot into a valley that steps
down through 3 levels. A stream about 125 yards out
guards a sloping green with a waterfall at the back.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse is a beauty with a fresh new feel to it and the
best shower and locker rooms you could possibly hope for.
Banquet and function rooms are available for large groups
or corporate outings and a full Thai or International menu
will keep everybody satisfied. The club entrance has a superb
view over much of the course and the building architecture
in itself is worth a few minutes to look over. For those who
like a photographic record of their trips, a picture here will
make a strong addition to the scrap book.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual
Green fee: Weekdays 2,800 THB, Weekends 2,800 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 600 THB
Facilities: Driving Range | Equipment Rental | Pro Shop |
Resident Professional | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)53 261354-9, Fax. +66 (0)53 261363
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 316 3918-21
e. info@chiangmaihighlands.com,
w. www.chiangmaihighlands.com
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 GASSAN KHUNTAN
Golf & Resort
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Pravit Reang-Po | Opened 2004
About the course
Built within the Khuntan Mountains and surrounded by Doi
Khuntan National Park, famous for its historical structures of
‘The Railway Bridge’ and ‘Khuntan Tunnel’, both constructed
during the Second World War, the course is 6,589 yards from
the white tees and is a healthy test for most levels. At 1,600
feet above sea level, the air is clean and the temperature
cooler than the central plains near Bangkok (just as well as
there are some hilly holes to negotiate). With water in play
on almost all the holes, and a couple of par 3’s playing to
elevated and well-protected greens, accuracy is the name of
the game.
Playing the course: White tees
The 1st 393 yards par 4. In front of the
elevated tee is the river Maetha, before a
narrow fairway spreads out then abruptly
dog-legs right round a lake. Bunkers
protect too big a drive and, with water
left and right, spend a bit of time on the
options; check yardages with the caddie.
What they tell you might be hard to believe!
Sense tells you to bang one up the fairway and leave a short
iron in, but if you have time and there’s nobody behind you,
take a second ball with something like an 8 iron
and hit to the green over the lake.
The 10th 300 yards par 4 can be extremely
intimidating, particularly if this is your
starting hole and the muscles are still a bit
tight. In front of the tee, which incidentally
has great views over the course, is a lake which
leads to a small and narrow finger-shaped
fairway with water both sides. Topping the ball
off the tee is not an option here, but a sensible 5 wood, iron or
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hybrid club can solve that problem nicely.
Bunkers literally surround the green so
even if you successfully get off the tee;
your full concentration is still needed for
a good score.
The 11th 185 yards par 3 has the river and a lake
between the tee and an elevated green guarded by
large bunkers to the back and right. This is no
‘gimme’ par, which many shorter par 3’s can
end up being. The bank in front of the green
will prevent low runners reaching the putting
surface and stops virtually anything over a 5
iron on to the green. So whatever club you
choose, try and hit it high and give it a chance to
bite. The green’s quite big so, even if you miss
it, a chip and single putt is still possible to make par.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse has all you’d expect from such a superb facility,
including a spa, seminar rooms, banquet hall, swimming
pool a Thai/International restaurant. This welcome retreat is
a family-orientated destination, offering trekking, mountain
biking and horse buggy riding to keep the youngsters
amused. There’s also an on-site luxury hotel. Gassan is well
known for its top-notch management team and its portfolio
comprises six projects, including driving ranges and Gassan
Lake City Golf & Resort, Gassan Marina Golf Club and a Par 3
course in Bangkok.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, Corporate
Green fee: Weekdays 2,500 THB, Weekends 3,000 THB
Caddie fee: 200 THB, Golf Cart hire: 500 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)53 507006-8, Fax. +66 (0)53 507218
e. info@gassangolf.com, w. www.gassangolf.com
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 GASSAN LAKE CITY
Golf Club & Resort
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Pravit Reang-po | Opened 2005
About the course
Situated in historical Gassan Lake, this course as its name
implies, involves negotiating lots of water which is part of its
appeal rather than a detraction as the game here will be all
about placement and shot making. The par 3s require shots
over the lakes, two of which are island greens which can be
tricky but usually fun nonetheless. Many of the par 4s and
5s are well designed dog-legs using the lakes as hazards to
protect one side of the fairway and usually some beautifully
carved bunkering to toughen up other parts of each hole.
The designer has created another very interesting layout to
challenge the golfer and complement his earlier design at
sister course Gassan Khuntan.
Playing the course: White tees
The 4th 420 yards par 4 is long for a par 4 and
a narrow fairway makes the drive one to be on
form for. A large lake and long bunker next to it
will catch anything down the right; the left has
bunkers and out of bounds to contend with. The
second shot is over a stream to perhaps the most
difficult green on the course, as its raised centre will
make the ball break away in all directions. Anywhere
below the hole is usually the best bet.
The 11th 350 yards par 4 is a
sharp dog-leg right with water
either side of the first part of the fairway
and some trees protecting the drive to
the green that longer hitters might feel is
the way to go, but the more analytical golfer
should put an iron in play avoiding bunkers
at the end of the fairway and leaving the ball
at a favoured distance. The elevated green still
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has some water and a bunker protecting it
and although wide, the green is not deep
enough to allow any loose approach and
will be tricky to putt on from too far away.
The 18th 376 yards par 4 requires a straight
and sweetly hit drive to a generous fairway
although a large bunker left and water right
will punish the poor shot from the tee;
but this one is all about the approach. The
second shot will be a carry over water to a
small and bunker protected green; water
will catch anything short and sand will trap
the longer shot. Like most of the greens
here, a little bit of trickery is left to amuse
you before you head in; a ridge in the middle of the green
makes most putts tricky to read depending on pin position.
The 19th hole
Gassan clubhouses have a style and grandeur all their
own. This one is beautifully crafted using Hariphunchai art
and culture as the theme; Hariphunchai is the former Mon
kingdom that thrived here centuries ago. With three types
of hotel room available, including suites, a great restaurant
offering alfresco or air-conditioned dining, as well as
conference and banquet facilities, it doesn’t matter if you're
here on your own, with the family or in a group – you will be
well cared for in comfortable surroundings.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, Corporate
Green fee: Weekdays 1,800 THB, Weekends 2,200 THB
Caddie fee: 200 THB, Golf Cart hire: 500 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Pro shop |
Resident professional | Equipment Rental | Restaurant |
Massage
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)53 921888, Fax. +66 (0)53 921816
e. info@gassangolf.com, w. www.gassangolf.com
Gassan Marina Golf Club
5
113
 SANTIBURI COUNTRY CLUB
Chiang Rai
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Opened 1992
About the course
Santiburi Golf Club is a semi-private members club with
guests welcome by appointment. The course lies in a series
of hills and valleys and the designers have kept most of the
natural features, making the course a real beauty. The front
nine meanders off down a hillside into a low area dominated
by a lake that’s in play on six of the holes. The back nine
plays primarily through a series of valleys, concluding with
a great pair of finishing holes. The greens all have their own
challenge; one or two are positively Machiavellian, so warm
the putter up or chip so close that there’s nothing left to do
but tap in.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 2nd 373 yard par 4 is a dramatic dog-
leg turning sharply left round a large lake
running the length of the hole. Spot on
the sharp turn, sits a large bunker in the
landing area with another opposite where
the fairway runs out. The perfect place to
entice players to hit over the dog-leg and
shorten the hole. The alternative is
to split the bunkers with a well hit
fairway wood and accept a longer
approach. Getting onto the green is reasonably
straight forward, with a large bunker guarding
the left side and a small one right.
The 13th 493 yard par 5 gently bends to the
right following the natural contour of the
land. A number of bunkers sit left to focus
the golfer on the drive, followed by a whole lot
more on the right where a second shot would be
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expected to land! However you can play
safe into a receptive second landing
area to leave a wedge to the green,
which is guarded by more bunkers so
it needs to be precise. The intricately
contoured putting surface requires a deft touch to keep
the score at acceptable levels.
The 18th 525 yard par 5 is a double dog-leg with
water in play left off the tee and then again to
the right leading into the green, it also splits the
fairway half-way up the hole. The landing area
off the tee is spacious and only a poor shot
would receive any punishment. From here
the bunker-fringed upper lake looms on the
right and a fairway sweeps to the left before
descending back down to the green. Getting
on in two is possible, but carries the risk-reward
factor attached to such bravado. Laying up is good
as long as you string three good shots together.
The 19th hole
A beautiful clubhouse sits on a hilltop with sweeping panoramic
views of the course. It really has the feel of a members club as
it’s fairly unpretentious, but with a veranda setting and a beer
garden for the après golf, along with the usual array of Thai
and International cuisine; it's an unusually pleasant spot to
linger for a few refreshments and a meal after the game.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, Corporate
Green fee: Weekdays 800 THB, Weekends 1,100 THB
Caddie fee: 220 THB, Golf Cart hire: 500 THB
Facilities: Driving Range | Equipment Rental | Pro Shop |
Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)53 662821-6, Fax. +66 (0)53 717377
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 260 5467, Fax. +66 (0)2 258 6439
e. cr_golfreservation@santiburi.com, w. www.santiburi.com
115
 WATERFORD VALLEY Chiangrai
Golf Club & Resort
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Rathert International
Opened 1993
About the course
Set in the Wiang Chai hills, this course is partly flat with a
number of holes in valleys. Four holes on each side, though,
have severe elevation changes, making things interesting
with club selection the main issue. The flatter holes are fairly
straightforward, which you’d expect at a resort course as
opposed to a championship beast, but the up and down
holes are all good tests.
Golf and hotel packages are reasonable and playing 36 holes
a day is do-able. The scorecard here is a little confusing, as the
two 9’s are labelled A and B but the starting hole is labelled as
1B and the finishing hole 9A!
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 9th 367 yards par 4 on Course B is a
deceptively short hole but full of wickedness from
tee to green. The tee box is set back round the
corner of a hill with the fairway at a dog-leg left.
A straight hit with too big a club will run out
of fairway and into water; a well controlled
draw round the hill to a landing area is the
best bet. The approach is over a
steep, water-filled ravine to a raised
green sloping severely from back to
front, with bunkers left and right. Avoid landing
above the hole.
The 1st 483 yards par 5 on Course A is a fairly
exacting drive over water to the fairway below, with
trees right and left of a narrow fairway guarded by
a large bunker right and out of bounds all along the
tree line left. It’s quite severely downhill so, if you hit
a good tee shot, the ball will run and there’s every
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chance that a well-hit fairway
wood will get you on the
green in two. It is, however, a relatively small but open target,
so even a shot short of the putting surface will leave a chip and
a putt for birdie.
The 9th 338 yards par 4 on Course A is another
elevation change hole and, at such a short
distance, it looks enticing. Bunkers left and right
at a very narrow part of the fairway makes a
driver the wrong club to select. Hit something
much shorter to the landing area, then consider
how to get the ball on the green, which is steeply
uphill and crowned. It’s a difficult task but a
deadly accurate straight shot leaving it below the
hole will at least give you a chance. Beware of the
bunkers too, as they’re not easy when you consider
that you’ll be blasting out onto an upturned bowl!
The 19th hole
The club house is a delightfully airy affair, sitting on top of a
hill overlooking the 9th and the 10th holes, with a veranda for
enjoying the view. The food is basic Thai cuisine including a
few spicy northern specialities. There’s also a good choice of
refreshments. If there isn’t anybody on the course near the end
of the day, try a little contest hitting lob wedges from in front
of the clubhouse to the 9th green and see if anybody can get
the ball to stop on the green, which slopes severely down.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual
Green fee: Weekdays 1,500 THB, Weekends 2,000 THB
Caddie fee: 200 THB, Golf Cart hire: 600 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving Range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)53 953425-7, 953440
Fax. +66 (0)53 953447
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 381 5888-99
Fax. +66 (0)2 260 0405, w. www.waterford.co.th
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 DIRECTORY
Northern Region
How to get there
Chiang Mai is the hopping-off point for the region’s three
southernmost featured courses; it can be reached by rail and
air from Bangkok. It’s also possible to drive but, as this would
take at least eight hours, it’s not recommended. Further north,
Chiang Rai is best accessed by air or road from Chiang Mai.
By air: Direct flights to Chiang Mai International Airport
arrive from several neighbouring countries, or via Bangkok’s
Suvarnabhumi International Airport. There are domestic flights
between Chiang Rai, Koh Samui, and Phuket, as well as direct
flights between Chiang Rai and Bangkok. Flights to Chiang
Mai and Chiang Rai from Hua Hin connect via Bangkok.
The four main carriers are:
Bangkok Airways: Within Thailand, Tel. 1771
from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 265 5555
Nok Air: Within Thailand, Tel. 1318
from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955
Thai Airways International: Tel. +66 (0)2 356 1111
SGA Airlines: Tel. +66 (0)2 644 6099
By train: Seven trains a day take the northern line from
Bangkok’s Hua Lumphong Railway Station and arrive in
Chiang Mai some 11 to 14 hours later, depending on which
service is taken. It’s advisable to opt for an air-conditioned
sleeper car and travel overnight. Train journeys should be
booked well in advance as trains tend to be full, particularly
over the weekends and public holidays. There's no train
service to Chiang Rai.
For further information regarding train services contact Hua
Lumphong Railway Station, Tel. +66 (0)2 223 7010.
Local transport
Local taxis can be arranged through most hotels or at the
airports and are ideal for exploring the area and getting to
and from the golf courses. For a traditional way of getting
around the two cities themselves, hope aboard a Samlor –
a pedal-driven three-wheeled trishaw. But remember the
golden rule is to bargain the fare first!
Self drive car hire: There are a number of local car hire
companies plus a couple of internationally established
agencies. An international or local driving licence will be
required as well as valid passport.
Hertz: Chiang Mai International. Airport, Tel. +66 (0)53
202606-7, Chiang Rai Airport, Tel. +66 (0)53 753022
Avis (Thailand): Chiang Mai International Airport, Tel. +66
(0)53 201798-9, Chiang Rai Airport, Tel. +66 (0)53 793 827
Budget (Thailand): Chiang Mai International Airport,
Tel. (0)53 202871-2, Chiang Rai City, Tel. +66 (0)53 740442-3
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Where to eat
Eateries range from street stalls selling delicious snacks up
to top-notch restaurants offering fine local and international
dishes. Akin to the local climate, the typical cuisine of this
region is less spicy than that found elsewhere in the country.
Local favourites include coconut milk poured over mangoes
and sticky rice, local sausages and the legendary Chiang Mai
Curry Noodles (Kao Soi) − a creamy, mild and soupy beef or
chicken curry with both soft boiled and crispy fried noodles
which incidentally, are equally delicious in Chiang Rai!
For best information and insight on where and what to eat,
PG see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching during 2011 −
and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
Hospitals in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Ram Hospital 1, 8 Boonleungrit Road, near
the city centre
24 hr Emergency contact: Tel. +66 (0)53 895001
Tel. +66 (0)53 224851, Fax: +66 (0)53 224880
Lanna Hospital, 1 Sukkasem Road, near the Kum Tiang
branch of Tesco Lotus, just north of the city
24 hr Emergency contact: Tel. +66 (0)53 999777 #191
Tel. +66 (0)53 999777, Fax: +66 (0)53 999754
Hospitals in Chiang Rai
Kasemrad Sriburin Hospital, in the street opposite the
turning to Little Duck Hotel, on route 1
24 hr Emergency contact: Tel. +66 (0)53 921777 #138
Tel. +66 (0)53 717499, Fax: +66 (0)53 717032
Overbrook Hospital, on Singhaklai Road near City Halll
24 hr Emergency contact: Tel. +66 (0)53 711366 #3102
Tel. +66 (0)53 711366, Fax : +66 (53) 711367
Other courses
This region is well served for golf courses, with several
venerable tracks within easy reach of the city centre. Summit
Green Valley Chiang Mai Country Club, in the same stable as
the Green Valley courses in Bangkok and Rayong, provides
a stress-free outing near to the city and, in the same vein,
Gassan Marina is also worth a visit.
To the north east of Chiang Mai, Royal Chiang Mai Golf
Resort is also close to the city and worth the drive to check
out.
For further information contact the Tourism Authority of
Thailand, Chiang Mai. Tel. +66 (0)53 248604. Chiang Rai,
Tel. +66 (0)53 717433
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 INTRODUCTION
to Western Region
Damnoen
Saduak
Western Region
This golfing region covers the country’s second largest
province – Kanchanaburi – and also incorporates southern
neighbour Ratchaburi, just over 100 km west of Bangkok.
Here the flat flood plains of the Chao Phraya River meet the
more hilly terrain, which continues across the border into
Myanmar. Another of Thailand’s large rivers, globally referred
to as the River Kwai, meanders through both provinces
before emptying into the ocean at Samut Songkram.
Blue Sapphire Island Golf and Resort
120
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
WESTERN REGION
The order given for slave labour to construct a railway bridge
over the river by the Japanese during their Second World
War occupation of Thailand, has transformed one particular
aspect of Kanchanaburi into a grim tourist attraction.
It’s often forgotten just how many Asian labourers and allied
prisoners of war perished during the construction of the
Burma, or ‘Death’ Railway and it’s very tempting to wonder
what tourism to this area would be like if such atrocities
hadn’t taken place. The story is well documented and the
events commemorated with war cemeteries, museums and
even an annual light and sound show at the bridge that
stands there today.
On a brighter note, there’s much more to this area, with
several attractions standing out not far from the town. The
Erawan National Park has a stunning waterfall, which is well
worth a visit along with the Tiger Temple on the road to
Saiyoke, where the abbot supplies refuge for a number of
tigers to save them from poachers.
Further south, Ratchaburi is a prosperous town with a
surprisingly large population hidden away on farms behind
the main roads. Nearby tourist attractions include temples,
caves and hot springs near Suan Pheung as well as the
famous floating market at Damnoen Saduak.
Even if you drop in for an hour, this is one of the most
colourful tourist attractions in Thailand. Note that it is a real
market and not – as many are these days – just for the benefit
of tourists!
121
121
 BLUE SAPPHIRE ISLAND
Golf and Resort
36 Holes | Par 72 | By Stephen Youdan & At-anan
Yomchinda | Opened 2002
About the course
Built on the remnants of an old sapphire mine, the course is
fascinating, with plenty of challenge and intricacy. The layout
runs along hills and round disused lakes. The colour of the
lake water is a clear blue but, although enticing for a swim,
you need to keep the ball straight to avoid a dip on some of
the holes. At 5,938 yards off the white tees, the course is a
little short, but blue tees offer 6,287 – still not overly long.
Blue Sapphire is developing into a fully fledged resort facility.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 3rd 556 yards par 5 is a double dog-leg with
the drive over a lake and up a hill, bearing
away right before turning sharp left round
a ravine. A good hit towards the left of
the fairway may give you a chance of
getting on in two, as you could cut the
corner completely. Take a short iron to
the second landing area avoiding a big
tree in the middle of the fairway, then
hit another short iron up the hill to a
sloped green; it needs to finish below
the hole for a chance of birdie.
The 6th 393 yards par 4 is almost a
right angle dog-leg over water to the
right of the tee; not a hole for slicers if
you’re going to cut the corner. Beware
though: too big a hit may get you into
a small gully at the end of the fairway
in front of the green and cost you a
shot as it’s also a water hazard. The
second can be tricky depending on the
pin position. If it’s back left, there’s a nasty
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bunker to negotiate and the green itself slopes
towards you, leaving a difficult putt unless you
hit it stone dead.
The 17th 557 yards par 5 starts well
below the elevation of the hole;
the drive over a large waste area to the exact
spot where the hole dog-legs sharply left is a
tough one. There’s a huge drop into forest and
a lake on the inside, and not enough fairway
if you’re too far right. A draw up the middle
is the best option. The second shot plays
long, so a good belt with a fairway wood is
needed, but beware of the bunkers in the
middle of the fairway. Then pop a wedge
on and have a go for birdie.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse (at the time of writing) is temporary, but is
perfectly adequate with an outdoor veranda and an air-
conditioned restaurant with a comprehensive menu. There’s
an excellent choice of accommodation, including a small
hotel and bungalows built on the edge of a huge lake in the
shape of a boat, complete with bridge and viewing room in
the prow! These would suit a family. The lake even has an
artificial beach and boats and is okay for a cooling swim after
your game, along with a sundowner on the beach!
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Not available
Green fee: Weekdays 500 THB, weekends 700 THB
Caddie fee: 18 holes – 220 THB, 36 holes – 440 THB
Golf Cart hire: 18 holes – 600 THB, 36 holes – 1,200 THB
Accommodation | Driving Range | Equipment Rental |
Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)34 581227-30, Fax. +66 (0)34 581322
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 235 4560-2
Fax. +66 (0)2 236 0480
e. tovice_blue@hotmail.com, w. www.bluesapphiregolf.com
123
 DRAGON HILLS GOLF
and Country Club
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Jim Engh | Opened 1994
About the course
This is such a well designed course that it’s a favourite with
many who play it regularly. The course meanders its way out
and back on both nines such that you hardly ever see another
hole other than the one you are playing, which gives the
golfer the feeling that he is the only player on the course!
Set in a range of hills southwest of Ratchaburi Town, and not
very far from the border with Myanmar, Dragon Hills is an
excellent golf course and if, you’re going on a tour to either
Kanchanaburi or Hua Hin, this one is well worth the detour.
Few people are disappointed by the layout of the course and
to get a good score will leave you well satisfied.
Playing the course: White tees
The 7th 380 yards par 4 is a challenging hole
despite not being overly long. Bunkers left and
right make a straight drive a useful start, but the
shot to the green requires precision regardless of
the pin position. The kidney shaped green has sand
blocking most of the front, but it also has a ridge in
the middle which means that it slopes left and right.
A back right pin will test your iron play,
so don’t be too greedy and just get it on
the green. Par would be a good score.
The 17th 187 yards par 3 is a delightful
test. At 187, or 193 yards off the blue
tee, just hitting the green is a job well done.
Mounds surround the rear and the sides create
a bowl effect, while a nasty little bunker sits on
the left. This is the prevailing slope of the green
as well, so a few might trickle off into it. This is
also one of Dragon’s toughest greens to putt on,
as there are severe breaks on putts of all lengths.
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The 18th 410 yards par 4
can also bite you just when
you don’t need it! The drive
needs to carry a lake left, but
bunkers right force a straight
hit to a landing area. Balls tend
to have little run on them, so a mid iron to the
green is what normally awaits you.
Beware the large bunker left of the green or, worse
still, an unseen pot bunker lined with wooden planks
on the right. If there’s nobody behind you, have a contest
within your group to see who can get out of it in one shot.
The 19th hole
The club house facilities are adequate for what the club sets
out to be. The rather cavernous changing rooms are dark but,
let’s face it, you only want a shower and a change after the
game. There’s an air-conditioned restaurant as well as a small
open air balcony which overlooks the course.
Since the course is a long way out of town, obtaining
and serving too extensive a selection may be a struggle,
nevertheless there’s a great choice of tasty Thai favourites to
choose from.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, family & corporate
Green fee: Weekdays 550 THB, Weekends 750 THB
Caddie fee: 200 THB
Golf Cart hire: Weekdays 500 THB, Weekends 600 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving Range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)32 228222, 228444, Fax. +66 (0)32 228308
Hotel Tel. +66 (0)32 229123
Bangkok Office Tel.+66 (0)2 938 9011-5
Fax. +66 (0)2 938 9019 #0
e. info@dragonhillsgolf.com
w. www.dragonhillsgolf.com
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 DIRECTORY
Western Region
How to get there
It’s possible to access Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi by rail
and road, with the latter being the most practical.
By train: Two very basic trains a day depart Bangkok Thon
Buri (Bangkok Noi) Railway Station along the southern line to
Kanchanaburi. The journey time is just under three hours.
PG
There’s also a special weekend service that departs Bangkok’s
Hua Lumphong Railway Station early Saturday morning,
returning on Sunday evening; this service also runs over
public holidays.
Regular trains depart from Hua Lumphong Railway Station to
Ratchaburi, again on the southern line, taking between 2-3
hours, depending on which of the services is taken.
For further information regarding train services contact Hua
Lumphong Railway Station, Tel. +66 (0)2 223 7010.
By road: From downtown Bangkok, it takes around 90 minutes
to reach Ratchaburi and about two hours to Kanchanaburi.
Local transport
Aside from getting to and from Bangkok, limousines and taxis
are the best bet for exploring the region and accessing the
golf courses; these can be arranged through most of the larger
hotels. The more energetic may want to explore Kanchanaburi
using pedal-power, for which tricycles can be rented in town.
Self drive car hire: Local car hire is available from hotels
and guest houses around the towns but there are no local
internationally recognized agencies; the nearest ones are
located in Bangkok.
Hertz: Bangkok office in Sathorn Road, Tel. +66 (0)2 266 4666
Avis (Thailand): Bangkok office in Wireless Road
Tel. +66 (0)2 255 5300-4
Budget (Thailand): Bangkok office in Royal City Avenue
Tel. +66 (0)2 203 0250
Where to eat
Aside from the restaurants and facilities at the clubhouses
and hotels, there’s a fairly limited selection of both
local and international restaurants in Kanchanaburi,
along with a local menu at the night market. There
are also a few ‘floating’ restaurants near the bridge
on the river Kwai, where diners can choose between
air-conditioned or alfresco dining right over the river.
Thai and Chinese fare is the order of the day, although some
have a small international selection as well. In Rachaburi
there are several of branded chain food outlets in the two
large shopping malls.
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WESTERN REGION DIRECTORY
An early morning trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating
Market will reward visitors with a variety of sweet and
savoury noodle dishes with accompaniments of fresh fruit
and vegetables.
For best information and insight on where and what to eat,
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching during 2011 −
and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
Hospital in Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi Memorial Hospital
At the northern end of town, beyond the bridge over
the River Kwai
24 hr Emergency contact
Tel. +66 (0)34 624184-93 #1027
Tel. +66 (0)34 624184-93
Hospital in Ratchaburi
Ratchaburi Hospital
In Somboonkul Road, opposite the law court
Tel. +66 (0)32 327901
Other courses
About 50 kilometres west of Bangkok Suwan Golf and
Country Club is a well designed and beautifully maintained
club; a perfect stop on the way out to Kanchanaburi.
Mission Hills Golf & Resort, another Jack Niklaus design, and
Evergreen Hills Golf Club & Resort, designed by At-anan
Yomchinda, are two very fine courses between Kanchanaburi
and Ratchaburi.
Then a few kilometres off the Saiyoke road, Lion Hills Golf
and Country Club is notable for a particularly challenging
back nine.
There’s also a wonderful Royal Thai Army course worth
mentioning, Panurangsi Golf Club. Legend has it that here a
group of golfers from Hua Hin once had an argument with
the club house staff because they simply couldn’t believe
how cheap their food and drinks bill was!
As it’s attached to an army engineering battalion, the course
is usually in excellent condition and will be one of the
cheapest in the region.
For further information contact the Tourism Authority of
Thailand, Kanchanaburi, Tel. +66 (0)34 511200.
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 INTRODUCTION
to Hua Hin & Cha Am
Banyan Golf Club
Hua Hin & Cha Am
Although the two coastal towns of Cha Am and Hua Hin are
in the provinces of Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan
respectively, they are in fact only 20km apart.
Both have been popular weekend seaside destinations for
Bangkokians since 1911, but they really came to fruition post
1923 when King Rama VI commissioned a summer palace
between the two beach towns. The Mrigadayavan Palace,
meaning ‘palace of love and hope’ took a mere 16 days to
Banyan Golf Club
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
HUA HIN & CHA AM
complete and remains open to visitors to this day. However,
the current royal family spends a great deal of time at
neighbouring Klai Klangwon Palace, which translates as ‘palace
far from worries’, hence that residence is closed to the public.
The one-time fishing village of Cha Am is smaller and less
developed than its southern neighbour; condominium
blocks follow along the coastline and there are new property
developments, ranging from bungalows to lavish villa
complexes, continually springing up. Surprisingly − and
fortunately − the development has not really impacted on
the charm of the area.
Hua Hin’s infrastructure is the more established of the two in
that it’s well stocked with restaurants and a broad variety of
other tourist amenities, unselfishly aimed at all ages. There’s
even an annual vintage car rally and a jazz festival!
Over the years a number of golf courses have opened up in
the area, not only to satisfy an increasing local population of
both Thai and expatriate golfers, but also to cater for visitors
from around the world. The area has become so popular that
many visitors consider it the golfing capital of Thailand!
Hua Hin Hills Vineyard, built on a former elephant corral, is well
worth a visit. The terrain comprising mostly of loamy-sand and
slate is favourable to grape cultivation and has resulted in the
area’s first boutique vineyard. One rather unique feature here
is the opportunity to explore the estate on elephant back!
Other local attractions include the Kaeng Krachan National
Park, home to a vast array of wildlife from gibbons to gaurs (a
type of ox), as well as a dwindling number of tigers. On the Gulf
coastline, Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park affords the chance
of spotting dusky langurs (monkeys) and Irrawaddy dolphins
and to explore the amazing Phraya Nakhon cave system.
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129
 BANYAN
Golf Club
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Pirapon Namatra, Golf East
Opened 2008
About the course
The Banyan Golf Club, even in its short period of operation, has
set an enviable standard that other courses would do well to
take note of. A professional management team that never rests
on its laurels has achieved what it set out to do: create a high
quality resort course where the emphasis is on enjoyment.
Invariably in immaculate condition, Banyan is fun to play but
requires a bit of thought, particularly with placement of the
tee shot; a nice change from hitting driver 14 times. The course
designer has made clever use of the terrain so that many holes
play downhill even though the whole area is built on a hill side,
so the length on the card is not as daunting as it might appear.
The fairways are generous but, with 12 being dog-legs
and good use of streams and bunkers, the course will be a
good test for all levels of player. The par 3s are a perfect mix
with one long and one short on each side and a couple of
reachable par 5s providing the right balance – just how a
good course should be.
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
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Playing the course: Blue tees
The 1st 402 yards par 4 makes a testing
opener for the golfer who might have
skipped the warm up. The
fairway sets off down a hill
to a narrowing landing area with a palm tree
in the middle of it and with hazards right and
left, it is a choice of hitting a big drive straight
at the palm tree or using a shorter club to give
you more room but a longer second shot to the
green which dog legs off to the right. Bunkers on
both sides will trap a weak second shot and a large
green gives the green keeper a choice of locations
to check if you are awake.
The 8th 511 yards par 5 is a downhill drive to a landing
area in front of a stream with a lone big tree and banana
trees guarding the left and pineapples right. The trick is
club selection off the tee as the water is reachable with
a driver; but don't leave yourself too far back. It’s then
a precise lay up slightly off to the right of the hole, as
a string of bunkers will keep you from hitting straight.
Pitch is the key to scoring well. The green is elevated
with a wicked bunker in front to catch the short shot,
while anything long will not hold. There is no easy pin
position on this hole.
The 14th 346 yards par 4 is a delightful little
hole with a sting in its tail. This is the thinking hole
here. Spurning the driver is the right decision,
as a hidden stream cuts across from the left of
the fairway short of the green and runs back up
the right. Once you've laid up successfully with
probably no more than a 5 wood, the protection
front left of the green should start you thinking
again; it’s a cavernous bunker worth ensuring you
stay away from, so pick a target in the middle of
the green and hit it well. People still say short holes
are easy for some reason.
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 BANYAN
Golf Club
Signature Hole
The 15th 139 yards par 3 is the
signature hole with a superb view
over the sea to Singtoh Island. It’s a
downhill shot to a green that slopes
away, so precision is the name of the
game. Take a moment to enjoy the
view, then commit to the shot with
a high iron; the ball will feed nicely
into the middle of the green. Given
the slope of the green, if you miss it,
the chip out of the bunkers in front or off the grass behind the
hole will not be the easiest you have ever undertaken.
The 19th hole
No expense has been spared in designing and constructing
the clubhouse. The locker rooms are spacious and equipped
with all the right grooming accessories to smarten you up
after the game.
Built in modern Thai style and overlooking much of the
course, the stunning sunset view from the terrace over the
mountains bordering Myanmar is something to behold. The
Terrace restaurant with à la carte international dining has
various speciality dishes, such as Wagyu beef, complemented
by a comprehensive wine list. As an alternative, Mulligan’s
pub serves all the usual favourites and has already established
itself as an entertainment venue in its own right.
What many clubs in Thailand lack is après golf, but Banyan
has succeeded in providing the perfect way to enjoy playing
the game and relaxing afterwards with functions varying
from quiz nights, to card game nights. Many locals visit the
Clubhouse just for a drink and a meal or linger after their game
for an evening’s entertainment amongst friends.
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Accommodation on the course comprises
a few superbly appointed rooms each
with private plunge pool and views
overlooking the scenery – plus internet connection, DVD
player and all other amenities you expect of a top class hotel.
Memorable Moments
At the first tournament held here even before the course
officially opened, the management decided to test and hone
their skills at running a tournament. A Bangkok-based society
were the unsuspecting recipients of the full service, including
a photo of each group and tee-time announcements. For
most amateur golfers this was probably a first and, judging by
some of the drives down the 1st hole, the formality of an Open
Championship style announcement got hold of more than a
few nerves. It’s difficult enough when 30 or so opponents are
watching your every more. but to be announced as well was
too much for some. Several drives went wayward and into
trouble on a hole where the drive is not the easiest.
At another society event, a gentleman golfer with a handicap in
the not so serious levels of the game managed a hole-in-one on
the short par 3 second. By the third, a marshal had already taken
his name and club used in preparation for the presentation of
a certificate in the clubhouse after the game. Banyan is very
good at making you feel special on such occasions.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Exclusively to home owners of The
Banyan Estate
Green fee: 3,600 THB Caddie fee: included in green fee
Golf Cart hire: Complimentary
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Resident Professional | Massage |
Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)32 616200, Fax. +66 (0)32 616222
e. reservations@banyanthailand.com
w. www.banyanthailand.com
Hilton Hotel
Siam Property
Chiva Som
Wat Khao Yai
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 SPRINGFIELD VILLAGE
Golf & Spa
27 Holes | Par 72 | By Jack Nicklaus | Opened 1993
About the course
You could not mistake this Nicklaus design – long waste
bunkers on several holes, other bunkers exactly where a club
golfer hits the drive and water to keep the player hitting in
the direction Jack wants you to. It’s as if he takes an average
handicap player out with him, watches the player hit and
then says, “Let’s put the hazard right here!”
Far from main roads and towns, this is a peaceful setting and
a delight for all levels of player. The fact that several Asian
PGA players base themselves in this area, and practice and
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play here regularly, is testament to Springfield’s
draw as a club with excellent facilities.
The addition of a new hotel and spa, as
well as a new nine holes in 2006, has
made this a premier golf destination. With three different
and challenging 9’s, Springfield is a must. There's a choice of
five different tees for varying levels of golfer: the white, or
members, tee is a good test, while the blue at 6,700 yards is
long enough for more serious golfers.
This is the only course in Thailand which is properly marshalled
on busier days to ensure the speed of play is acceptable −
a rare treat indeed. Looking at the whole package of golf,
beach side hotel, course side hotel, spa, and restaurant, there
is something for everyone, non-golfers included.
Playing the course: White tees
The 2nd 483 yards par 5 on the Mountain Course
is an enticing one if you get a good drive away.
A bunker and water left should keep you in the
middle or out right, but if you catch the drive well,
you’ll be left with a fairway wood to reach the green
in two shots and have a go at an eagle. However, the
green is protected by bunkers right and left and by
a small stream that runs away from you to the right.
Not a hole to slice your second shot on.
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 SPRINGFIELD VILLAGE
Golf & Spa
The 8th 347 yards par 4 on the Mountain Course is to be
treated with respect. A lake left and bunkers right, make
this an intimidating drive and a massive tree also
shields the left side of the green. This is a sacred tree
to the locals with coloured ribbons and flowers tied
round it, signifying that a friendly ghost inhabits
it. Once the drive has been negotiated, you are
left with a mid iron into a bunker protected green
that’s raised and has two tiers so a wicked putt
awaits you if you get the approach wrong.
The 4th 386 yards par 4 on the Lake Course
is a trademark Jack Nicklaus hole with a huge
waste bunker and lake down the right and
trees on the left. If you don’t hit a good drive,
you’re left with a longish carry over a canal to an uphill
sloped green protected by a single bunker on the left.
Signature Hole
The 9th 473 yards par 5, Lake Course Mr Nicklaus
has created a fantastic finishing hole to tempt the
craftier hitters into going for an eagle. It’s a dog-leg left with
high trees protecting the dog-leg and a bunker
guarding a straight drive, water all down the
right for the second shot and an island green.
So you take a 5 wood, lay-up, throw a wedge on
and 2 putt for par. Big deal. Have fun. Hit the drive
round or over the trees and you'll find yourself with
half a chance of taking on the green with anything
from a wood to a 4 iron. There’s a local agreement
that anything less than 210 yards for the second shot
is a must-have-a-go obligation. You are, after all, only
young once!
The 19th hole
The clubhouse gives you the feeling you’re at a quality
course. There’s an indoor restaurant but it’s much better
to sit outside on the shaded veranda and take in the views
looking over the finishing holes of the course and the hills in
the distance. Then there is, of course, the spa and a hotel −
with the best swimming pool in the district!
Memorable moments
At the 2004 Singha Masters held at Springfield, two stalwarts
of the Asian Tour based in Hua Hin were well ahead of the
rest of the field and going head-to-head on the final day.
Greg Hanrahan started the day one shot ahead of Simon
Yates, but made five birdies on the trot from the 7th to the
11th to get four shots clear. However a titanic battle was
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PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
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to ensue. With a small and very local gallery
walking inside the ropes, there were no
marshals or security guards; just two
great players providing some of the most
entertaining golf ever seen in Thailand.
Yates hit driver, 6 iron to a back pin on the 518 yard par 5
12th, and nailed a putt for eagle to pull two shots back, and
then made one more shot back on the par 4 15th. This hole
is 460 yards long into the wind, but the ‘Wee Man’, as he's
known on tour, crushed a huge drive and then hit a 9 iron to
a back pin for birdie.
With all to play for, it took a mistake by Hanrahan on the 17th
for Yates to draw level with just the par 5 18th to play.
A spectator accidentally dropped his umbrella in the middle
of Yates’ set up routine for the second shot to the island
green, but he still made birdie − after muttering something
about the incident costing the man a beer − and took the
title by a single shot.
An enthralling afternoon of golf played in the true spirit of
the game, and a display that was a credit to both players.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, Family, Corporate
Green fee: 2,500 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB
Golf Cart hire: 750 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Resident Professional | Massage |
Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course
Tel. +66 (0)32 709222, Fax. +66 (0)32 709234
Bangkok Office
Tel. +66 (0)2 231 2244
Fax. +66 (0)2 231 2249
e. playgolf@springfieldresort.com
w. www.springfieldresort.com
141
 PALM HILLS GOLF RESORT
& Country Club
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Max Wexler | Opened 1992
About the course
Palm Hills has set itself up to offer a true resort lifestyle, with
condominiums and expensive houses, affordable holiday
villas, and a well-equipped sports club accompanying the
golf course. This is all a testament to Hua Hin’s enduring
appeal.
Whilst the course is not one of the more difficult in the region,
it’s well laid out with lots of dog-legs and water hazards to
toughen it up, whilst maintaining its scenic appeal. The
course meanders round the property with very few holes
side by side and offers pleasant views of the surroundings
and – from some of the more elevated areas – the sea.
Playing the course: White tees
The 2nd 459 yards par 5 is a fun hole. With
water down both sides and in front of you with
the drive, a strong tee shot is needed but, as
a reward, you’ll get a shot at the green in two.
Have a go; this is as short a par 5 as you will
get in this region. If you can’t get there, lay up
sensibly with the second shot but make sure
you pick a target. The green is protected by
bunkers so the approach needs to be
precise – get a read from the caddie
and sink it.
The 10th 406 yards par 4 has an
elevated teeing ground, which gives a good
view over some of the property and dog-legs
to the right round a hill and past some of the
condominium units. You may even get a ripple
of applause if the owners are having breakfast on
their verandas. It’s not a hard hole unless the drive
is poor, but it’s one to look out for as the scenery is
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remarkably good. The
approach is reasonably
straightforward but the
green has some big slopes on it and needs to be treated with
care if you’re going to make par.
The 14th 338 yards par 4, although short, provides
one of the more interesting tests on Palm Hills. It’s
a dog-leg left with water guarding the inside and
some of the fairway, so choose the right club off
the tee and be careful not to over-cook it.
Negotiate the drive well and you’ll have an easy
second with the chance of birdie or par. Make a
mess and you’ll be picking another golf ball out of
your bag and dropping out of the water hazard.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse is unpretentious with both an indoor air-
conditioned restaurant and an outdoor patio with tables and
umbrellas to provide shade. As with many Thai golf clubs,
the food is reasonably priced and tasty and a cold beer, or
fresh lemon juice with soda, will make you feel good whether
you’ve played well or not. Have a look round the whole area
as there are some interesting houses and villas set in quiet
surroundings with hills, lakes, valleys and sea views all
making Palm Hills the first class facility that it is.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual
Green fee: 2,500 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 650 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Resident Professional | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)32 520801-9, Fax. +66 (0)32 520820
Bangkok office Tel. +66 (0)2 261 3792-9
Fax. +66 (0)2 261 3791
e. info@palmhills-golf.com, w. www.palmhills-golf.com
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 ROYAL HUA HIN PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
HUA HIN & CHA-AM GOLF COURSES
Golf Course

the caddie reads it completely the other side

of the hole to you – there are no prizes for
guessing who’s more likely to be right. This
hole can be tricky to say the least.

The 18th 440 yards par 4

finishing hole is a dog-leg left with a large tree
guarding the inside and needs a big drive,
preferably with a draw to get round it and give
yourself a playable second to the green.
At 440 yards, this is one of the longer par 4’s in
Thailand but don’t be discouraged – you get
more run on the ball than at many courses where,
particularly in the rainy season, one foot of forward
18 Holes | Par 72 | By A.O. Robins | Opened 1924 roll off the drive is the norm. Hit two good shots,
make par and head for a drink in the clubhouse.
About the course
The 19th hole
This was the first golf course in Thailand, built by royal
The clubhouse is not particularly grand or elegant but it is
command of His majesty King Rama VI; a Scottish railway
functional and quaint. It's directly opposite the railway station
engineer was asked to build the course. Using natural terrain
in Hua Hin, which in itself is worth a visit for its old-style charm,
up and down the hills and valleys, with mature trees lining
although you do feel that you’re right in the middle of a resort
much of the course, it’s unlike most courses in Thailand with
town with all the hustle and bustle that goes with it. Look out
the feel of a European parkland course. It has only two tee
for the old abandoned steam engines standing by the tracks
boxes, men's and ladies’ and, at 6,678 yards and 5,713 yards
and, on your way out, look left and right before you cross the
respectively, it’s not short. With tree-lined fairways and long
track itself. The barriers are not particularly modern so it’s
par 5’s it requires accuracy and distance off the tee. However always worth looking before you cross!
it’s the par 3’s that really stand out as tests of your game.
Memberships & facilities
Playing the course: Men’s tees
Memberships available: Not available
The 4th 155 yards par 3 plays over a steep drop Green fee: 2,000 THB
to a raised green and, to make life interesting, Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 750 THB
has two tiers. Over-club and you’re faced with a Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
nasty chip back down the hill, possibly from the Rental | Pro Shop | Resident Professional | Restaurant
bunker at the back. If the pin is on the front tier,
you’ll have played a good shot to keep the ball Contact & Location
on the green and somewhere near the hole. If Tel. +66 (0)32 512475 (0) 32 531070, Fax. +66 (0)32 513038
you under club and land short, expect a long e. royal_golf@hotmail.com
chip back up the hill to the green – reminiscent w. www.santiburi.com/RoyalHuaHinGolfCourse/index.asp
of the 14th at Wentworth, which
catches so many of the
world’s best golfers out!
The 5th 131 yards par 3 comes back
down the same hill you’ve just walked
up and, although shorter, needs an equally
precise shot allowing for one less club due to
the downward elevation. When you get on, be it
your first or second shot, have a really good look
at the putt as the green is crowned; then ask your
caddie what he or she thinks. Don’t be amazed if
144 145
 THE IMPERIAL LAKEVIEW
Hotel & Golf Club
36 Holes | Par 72 | By Roger Packard | Opened 1993
About the course
With four distinctly different 9 hole courses (the fourth
opened mid 2007), Lakeview is an excellent facility that helps
make this region a prime draw for golfers. The desert course
is unique in Thailand and is great fun to play. The older, more
established, championship 18 holes is an interesting test of
golf, laid out with just the right amount of water, bunkers and
forest to keep the golfer’s concentration high.
Play the championship course in the morning, then sample
one of the most interesting 9 holes of golf in Thailand. It
certainly has the feel of a course in New Mexico or Arizona.
Even the drinks stops have a desert feel about them!
Playing the course: White tees
The 3rd 392 yards par 4 on the Mountain Course
looks quite innocuous at first sight but, with
bunkers protecting the left and a stream 30
yards short, as well as a wickedly sloping green,
you need to hit two good shots and leave your
ball below the hole. Above or to either side
of the cup will test your green reading ability.
Don’t be surprised if there’s a hold-up on this
hole, as the groups in front of you
will probably have spent a little time
3 putting it.
The 10th 381 yards par 4 on the Lake
Course, can be a beast. There’s a stream across
the fairway just at the point most people would
hit a drive, so 5 wood or 3 iron off the tee is
sensible. However, this often leaves the sort of
distance many people struggle with, the 170-
200 yards range, and the trouble doesn't end
there. The green is narrow in the neck and both
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sides are protected by bunkers, the one on
the right side being large and deep
enough to cause some strife.
The 16th 352 yards par 4 on the Lake Course
is an easy hole if you get it right. Again, there’s
water at driving distance, so take a 5 wood and
then hit a mid iron to the green. The water runs
both sides of the fairway on the second part of
the hole and a nasty bunker protects the right
of the green, but two good shots will see you
home.
In a recent amateur tournament at this course,
a 20 handicap golfer put his second in the water,
dropped out for three and then sank his fourth from 160 yards
out for an easy par net birdie.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse, with a covered veranda, adjoins the hotel
and serves an excellent breakfast (especially the pancakes
and syrup) and lunch. The family-friendly facilities include a
swimming pool, squash court, tennis court, snooker room and
TV room. The well-appointed hotel rooms overlooking the
course, together with the rest of the facilities, make Lakeview
a superb destination. If you stay here and feel the need to go
out in the evenings, Cha Am and Hua Hin are not far away.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Closed
Green fee: 2,500 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 750 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)32 456233-40, Fax. +66 (0)32 456241
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 261 9000 #4247
Fax. +66 (0)2 261 9596, e. lakeview@imperialhotels.com
w. www.imperialhotels.com/lakeview
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 THE MAJESTIC CREEK
Country Club
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Dr Sukitti Klangvisai
Opened 1993
About the course
Majestic Creek is a gem. Dr Klangvisai has done a superb job
using the natural terrain to create a tough, but fair, course
and a truly interesting layout with almost no holes running
parallel to each other. There are at least seven par 4’s and 5’s
where a driver is probably not the answer and the greens,
although slow, have some truly tricky slopes and borrows to
negotiate and are deceptively fast on downhill putts.
Many of the caddies, particularly the men, are very fine
players and their knowledge of the course and the greens is
impressive. Seldom exceptionally busy, as it’s a little further
out of town than the other courses, this is a must play for
any visitor.
Playing the course: White tees
The 2nd 320 yards par 4 is an easy par if you
hit the right shot with the right club off the tee.
Often a 4 iron would be enough to put the ball
in the right position. Aim at the bunkers straight
ahead with a draw and the ball will come round
to a perfect position. A pulled drive will possibly
end up down a bank and in water, or even
catch an out of sight bunker. The
second shot is over water to a
severely sloped green, so being
below the hole is at a premium. Being
long leaves an almost impossible shot.
The 5th 508 yards par 5 is a dog-leg left with
bunkers, water and jungle protecting the drive,
as well as trees if you hit it too long. A draw is
the best shot but beware of the bunker on the
left, as getting out to a decent spot is difficult.
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A big hit with a draw could get on in two
shots, although it’s a really difficult green to
stop on from a long distance. Lay up with
the second, as there’s a stream in front,
and then hit an accurate wedge below
the hole. The green has some severe
slopes and tricky borrows.
The 15th 361 yards par 4 can be a killer if you
get it wrong. It’s a dog-leg right with trees,
bunkers and out of bounds protecting the
right, a bunker and forest inhibiting the big
straight shot and a lake about 20 yards short of the
green. The green itself would require an essay to
describe, so let’s just say easy 5 wood off the tee,
mid iron to a spot below the hole and leave
yourself a firm uphill putt. Have fun with this
hole, it requires some concentration.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse has a laid-back quality about it. A covered
veranda overlooks the 18th hole and serves tasty and good
value local food. Accommodation is available, both at the
course and at the splendid Majestic Beach Hotel in Hua Hin
Town. If you stay there, transport to the course is available
and green fees are normally discounted. Most rooms have
a sea view and the swimming pool in the middle of the
property makes it a very pleasant facility altogether.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual
Green fee: 2,500 THB
Caddie fee: 250 THB, Golf Cart hire: 700 THB
Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment Rental | Pro
Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)32 619168
Fax. +66 (0)32 520477
e. manoo@tummabud.com
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 DIRECTORY
Hua Hin and Cha Am
How to get there
From north to south, the neighbouring towns of Hua Hin and
Cha Am are around 20 km apart and are easily reached from
Bangkok. However, even though they're just a short drive
away they can also be accessed by rail and air.
By air: The two towns are served by Hua Hin Airport, direct
PG
flights to which depart from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi
International Airport daily with a flight time of 50 minutes.
Flights between the other golfing destinations are via
Bangkok.
For further information contact:
Nok Air: from within Thailand: 1318; from outside Thailand
Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955
SGA Airlines: Tel. +66 (0)2 664 6099
By train: 12 trains a day take the southern line from Bangkok’s
Hua Lumphong Railway Station bound for Hua Hin Station,
which serves both towns. The journey time is 3-5 hours
depending on which service is taken.
For further information regarding train services contact:
Hua Lumphong Railway Station, Tel. +66 (0)2 223 7010.
By road: The drive from Bangkok to Cha Am averages at
around three hours, with an additional few minutes required
to reach Hua Hin.
Local transport
Taxis and limousines can be arranged through most hotels or
at the airport and are ideal for exploring the area and getting
to and from the golf courses.
Self drive car hire: There are a number of local car hire
companies plus a couple of internationally established
agencies. An international or local driving licence will be
required as well as valid passport.
Hertz: Bangkok office in Sathorn Road, Tel. +66 (0)2 266 4666
Avis (Thailand): Cha Am, Tel. +66 (0)32 520008-9,
Hua Hin, Tel. +66 (0)32 531238
Budget (Thailand): Hua Hin Tel. +66 (0)32 514220
Where to eat
The Thai seafood restaurants near Cha Am are magnificent
both for quality and price. There’s plenty of fresh crabs,
lobster, prawns and fish on the menu and all at very
reasonable prices.
Hua Hin boasts an overwhelming choice of fine eateries, from
traditional restaurants on stilted jetties over the sea serving
delicious local seafood to a range of international eateries in
the centre of, and on the outskirts of, town. Choices includes
American, Japanese, German, Indian and Italian restaurants,
including a Gelateria serving home made gelato.
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During the day, the al fresco dining and wine tasting at Hua Hin
Hills Vineyard are worth checking out. There’s a juice bar selling
all manners of grape based products and souvenir shop.
For best information and insight on where and what to eat,
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching during 2011 −
and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
Hospital in Hua Hin
San Paulo Hua Hin Hospital
On Petchkasem Road, Soi 80 (near Grand Hotel)
24 hr Emergency contact:
Tel. +66 (0)32 532576-80 #107
Other courses
Aside from those featured in this section, there’s a good
layout about 120 km from Bangkok and just a few kms from
the small town of Khao Yoi – which is noted for its caves. Set
in the rolling hills that lead up to Kaeng Krachan National
Park, Sawang Resort Golf and Country Club sits in a massive
resort complex that never really got completed, but the
course itself manages to keep going and is fun to play.
The Thai Golf Association often holds qualifying and junior
tournaments here and there are some interesting holes, with
the 18th par 5, being a unique lay up with an iron off the tee.
Kaeng Krachan Country Club & Resort is also worth a trip,
although it’s a long drive from Hua Hin or Cha Am.
Hua Hin Golf Society
Formed in 1995 by a group of expatriates, the Hua Hin Golf
Society is a thriving and busy group of golfers with about 400
members; some residents and some just regular visitors.
Outings are held every Tuesday and Friday at courses all
round the area, with excursions (particularly in the cooler
months) to courses in Ratchaburi, Pattaya and Chiang Mai.
Berny’s Inn, in Hua Hin town centre, acts as club house where
you can meet members. They welcome guests and, if they’re
not full for a tournament, just go along and introduce yourself
to Berny Morgan who’s the Honorary Secretary and leading
light behind the society’s success. You’ll find the group is
friendly and made up of many different nationalities and all
levels of golfing skill.
Visit www.huahingolfsociety.com
For further information contact the Tourism Authority of
Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)32 471005-6
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 INTRODUCTION
to Southern Region
The Southern Region
Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is the second most
developed (after Pattaya) of the country’s tourist
destinations.
The island, off the south west coastline, sits in the Andaman
Sea and is separated from the mainland by a narrow bridged
strait. The west and south coastlines are liberally sprinkled
with beaches, many of them long, curving arcs of golden
sand with mounds of boulders separating them from the
neighbouring beaches.
With an international airport and good transport links to
the rest of the country, it makes a good base for exploring
further afield or as the jumping-off point for other popular
destinations such as Khao Lak, and the islands of Koh Phi Phi
and Koh Lanta. There’s a collection of worthy golf courses
Red Mountain Golf Course
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in the immediate area and plenty to do and see for all the
family, both on and off the island.
Phuket is Thailand’s favourite destination for foreign golfers,
particularly expatriates. The island’s housing boom has
gone hand-in-hand with the development of new, and
the redevelopment of existing, courses. All Phuket’s golf
courses now proudly announce their associated housing
developments, aimed at those whose dream home sits on
the edge of the fairway.
Off the opposing coastline, in the Gulf of Thailand, the
fabulous beaches of Koh Samui have been attracting visitors
for decades. The island – the third largest in Thailand – is now
firmly on the international tourist map.
Koh Samui’s central region, comprising almost two thirds of
the island, consists of thickly wooded mountainous terrain.
Coconut palms interspersed by gushing streams and waterfalls
provide the backdrop for the island’s two proper golf courses.
Finding somewhere to stay today on either of these islands
couldn’t be easier. You don’t have to look far to find luxury
hotels, boutique resorts, villas and natural spas; unexpectedly
most are reasonably priced.
There’s also all manner of retail chains and fast food outlets
nestled under a blaze of neon signage. Thankfully, the
commercial areas only appear in concentrated areas and
are not a dominating feature of these two popular holiday
destinations, both not so many years ago the province
of backpackers and cruising yachties, who – as always –
were obliged to look further afield for their untouched
island paradises, as infrastructure, tourism and residential
development gathered pace.
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 LOCH PALM
Golf Club
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Dr. Sukitti Klangvisai, revisions
by Jonathan Mark Morrow | Opened 1996
About the course
Loch Palm is beautifully sculptured around the remnants of
an old tin mine, creating a tough but fair test of golf on a
well designed course. It’s a scenic treat and one of the best
layouts on the island.
Termed as Phuket’s ‘most relaxing golf course’ Loch Palm is
nestled below a panoramic mountainous range in the centrally
located Kathu valley, just 7kms from Phuket City and 15
minutes from Patong Beach, making it a natural and popular
choice with Phuket residents and visiting golfers alike; dramatic
elevations and drops throughout its layout lead players around
ravines and plateaux testing every golfer’s ability.
Many of the first 9 holes surround one of the island’s biggest
lakes, but more to the point, Phuket’s largest water hazard -
Crystal Lake, which spreads over an impressive 48 acres and,
on a less challenging note, provides a soothing breeze off the
water during the midday sun.
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From the 10th hole onwards, the designer
has made good use of the natural contours
in creating one or two outstanding
challenges. Well-placed bunkers and
small waterways near the approaches to
the greens make accuracy and placement more important
than distance off the tee.
With its sister course Red Mountain right next door, playing
Loch Palm one day followed by Red Mountain the next
makes for an entertaining two days of golf on courses that
rank right up there with the best that Phuket has to offer.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 2nd 494 yards par 5 is a good dog-leg right even
though it's unusual to have a par 5 so soon. It’s
reachable in two shots for big hitters, but reward
carries risk, so look out for the lake right and the
water channel across the fairway at about 100
yards. Don’t be over-confident; this hole sees few
eagles but many double bogeys. The alternative
is to play the prescribed method and take three
easier shots to get on the green in regulation. The
drive still needs a little care and attention, though,
with water and a bunker on the right.
The 10th 360 yards par 4 is really not what you'd want
as your 1st hole in a shotgun or 2-tee start. Whilst the
hole is not overly long, it presents a few small issues to
negotiate, including out of bounds all the way along
the right side and two bunkers guarding the landing
area left. It then dog-legs off to the right with a large
rock jutting out and blocking the view to the green
if your tee shot is at all off target. The green
requires accurate line reading as there are
some interesting borrows on it so you need
to focus on this one for a decent score.
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The 18th 528 yards par 5 is also well worth a
mention, as you need to hit the right distance
off the tee to get round a hill on the left that
creates a clear corner. If you get it wrong, a
tough second shot to keep you on track awaits.
The rest of the hole is effectively a fairly narrow
ledge, with the hill on your left and a drop off
to the right, so a well placed 7 or 8 iron before
approaching the green will give you a chance.
Few players ever hit the green in two shots.
Signature Hole
The 14th 168 yards par 3 and signature
hole features a large undulating green
protected by water most of the way
round and a bunker front right. The
green is some 60 feet below the tee, so
any wind on the day and the elevated tee
will test the golfer’s club selection; any shot
hooked or pulled will get wet. The elevated
tee affords a good view of the course, so do
take a moment to soak up the scenery.
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The 19th hole
The Loch Bar and restaurant has a good
menu of reasonably priced local and
international favourites, as well as a
modest selection of beers, wines and spirits. The view from
the Loch affords splendid vistas of this 400 rai course. The lake-
side terrace is a great place to relax and watch balls dropping
into Phuket’s only 'Aqua Driving Range'.
Loch Palm Living
Loch Palm has a variety of course or hill-side accommodations
all under the blanket of ‘Baan Suan Loch Palm’. The project,
comprising detached single and two-storey villas with their
own individual landscaped gardens, are set out over four
different zones amongst natural surroundings and take
advantage of either splendid fairway or lake vistas. Bedrooms
in the two -torey units have their own balcony.
The overall layout has an emphasis on convenience and privacy,
with properties accessed by short service roads. The individual
plots are large enough to avoid the impression of crowding
and share common areas, such as gardens and greenery zones
for those who want to ‘get to know’ their neighbours!
The properties are designed and constructed with families
in mind and come complete with their own security system.
With Phuket International Airport less than an hour away,
getting to and from Baan Suan Loch Palm is also very
convenient, as is accessing the island’s amenities including
international schools, hospitals, comprehensively stocked
shopping malls or one of the island’s prestigious beaches!
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual,
Green fee: Weekdays & weekends 3,700 THB
Caddie fee: 300 THB, Golf Cart hire: 700 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro shop | Resident Professional | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)76 321929, Fax. +66 (0)76 321927-8
e. info@lochpalm.com, w. www.lochpalm.com
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 RED MOUNTAIN
Golf Course
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Jonathan Mark Morrow
Opened 2007
About the course
This stunning course, arguably one of Thailand's best and
most enjoyable courses, is the most refreshing addition to the
Phuket golf scene for years; it's the only course on the island
currently upholding a ‘Rain Check Policy’, allowing ‘rained off ’
players to return to finish their game in better weather!
Red Mountain Golf Course is in the same area as sister course,
Loch Palm Golf Club, and achieves what it set out to do –
complement it. The clever design takes advantage of a huge
variety of landforms and dizzying elevation changes. The
hillsides and valleys have been imaginatively incorporated
into the scheme, creating a course of unique character; the
drastic contrast between the craggy red topography and the
undulating green fairways creates an awesome spectacle. Due
to the winding layout of the course, players experience a feeling
of privacy as if only they are enjoying the surroundings!
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Whilst undoubtedly challenging,
with numerous risk and reward
options for many of the holes, it's
fun to play and is a breathtaking
scenic tour. The elevation changes alone make this an
interesting layout to play. Red Mountain should be on every
visitor’s itinerary at least once.
With a comprehensive selection of hole designs mixed with
varying lengths, a round of golf here provides players with all
sorts of challenges on every hole. Although difficult to pick
out one individual hole to elaborate this using the Par 3s as
an example, the 17th and course Signature Hole is exemplar
as it sends out all sorts of messages to players as they look
down to read the green some 150 feet below the tee-box!
Red Mountain Golf Club is scheduling to release their limited
membership packages during 2010 which will include
individual, family & corporate memberships for golfers wishing
to become part of the club and receive various exclusive
benefits together with the on-site hotel to be situated by
the clubhouse and overlooking the 10th hole and the Kathu
mountain peaks. There are also future plans for residential
villas and homes on the course that will enjoy the surrounding
natural vegetation and beautifully undulating fairways.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 2nd 476 yards par 5 is a short one but
rule out any thoughts of beating it up. It’s an
uphill drive over a narrow neck of fairway to
the first landing area which has some bunker
protection to be wary of. A short iron for position
is probably the best idea for the second shot as
taking on the green in two would need a precise
cut or fade round a virtually blind corner to a heavily
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Golf Course
guarded green. It’s then a simple pitch depending on pin
position, but the bunkers are always there to scoop up an
uncommitted shot.
The 8th 305 yards par 4 is an ‘S’ shaped hole
with water running all down the right, and
strategically placed bunkers. The more
distance off the tee will lead to less of a water
carry and more of the green to work with on
the approach. However, anything too straight
and long will see you run off into the lake, so a
nice little draw with a fairway wood is probably
the answer.
The tees are elevated which accentuates the wind
so be aware. A good drive will leave only a medium
iron and take the left hand greenside bunker out
of play too.
The 18th 525 yards par 5 makes a great finish to
the day but it’s not a hole for the faint-hearted. The
drive is tight down a valley to a small landing area
before a large lake. The second shot needs care, as
the fairway from here on is bordered by bunkers and
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the lake, which is also in play on the
right side of the green. A sensible
mid iron to lay up, followed by a
favourite wedge will see you in good
shape for a grandstand finish in front of the clubhouse.
Signature Hole
The 17th 155 yards par 3 has the centre of the
green nearly 120 feet below the Pro tee and
the wind felt at the tee may not affect your
shot as expected, so have a good look at the
conditions down below before selecting a club.
The prescribed wisdom is take 2 or even 3
clubs less than normal and swing easy to keep
the ball flight lower. The green looks friendly
from the tee, but you must find the right part
of it to avoid the dreaded 3 putts.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse sits atop a small hill with terrific views over
holes 1, 9, 10 and 18. Its construction takes the surroundings
into account and blends in perfectly. The building doesn’t
spring up in front of you, nor is it brightly coloured; the
exterior surfaces are left naturally bare in a tight geometric
layout – functionality at its best. Inside it’s bright and roomy.
The restaurant offers a Thai and international menu, served
inside or out on the terrace, which has been crafted around
the original trees, leaving them growing undisturbed.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual
Green fee: Weekdays & weekends 5,500 THB
Caddie fee: 300 THB, Golf Cart hire: 700 THB (compulsory)
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Resident Professional | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)76 322000-1, Fax. +66 (0)76 321927-8
e. info@lochpalm.com, w. www.redmountainphuket.com
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 LAGUNA PHUKET
Golf Club
18 Holes | Par 71 | By Max Wexler and David Abell
Opened 1992
About the course
Part of the Laguna Phuket resort complex, Laguna Phuket
Golf Club is not championship length, but offers a decent
challenge to all abilities. Measuring 6,654 yards from the
back tees and 5,464 yards from the ladies’, it has lagoons,
coconut trees and undulating fairways, to ensure that par is
no pushover. Accuracy and club selection are crucial to avoid
getting wet or any of the other hazards and as water is in play
on 13 holes; avoiding it all is no mean feat. The longer hitters
will be able to take risks on a couple of the par 5’s but much
of the course needs well positioned irons for a good score.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 10th 444 yards Par 4 is one of the major tests
and is rightly stroke index 3. A solid drive to a
none-too-generous fairway is the first issue, but the
second shot is as tough as any. The green is set on a
promontory with the lake to the right, making the
hole a dog-leg. Between the lake and the green lies
a massive sweeping bunker of almost 100 yards
that runs into the water, but sand is better than
water so don’t be too afraid of it. Any pin placement
in the back right corner of the
green makes this a truly difficult hole.
The15th 421 yards Par 4 is another testing
one. The fairway narrows just at the distance
that a good drive should reach and, to make
matters more interesting, bunkers guard the
fairway on either side. So stick with a fairway
wood, but be prepared for a slightly longer shot in.
The green is built into a large mound with the entry
carved beautifully out of the natural surroundings.
Two nasty pot bunkers front left and right, make the
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approach a bit of a challenge, but two
accurate and well thought-out shots will
offer a chance of par or birdie.
The 17th 612 yards Par
5, one of the longest par 5’s in Thailand, is a
monster demanding accuracy and distance. It’s a
three-stage hole for most, as a water hazard runs
along the length of the right side, and a lake comes
into play left on the tee shot. A precise lay-up is
needed on the second shot as the lake protrudes
into the fairway just short of a big tree and
some bunkers. This leaves a relatively long
third shot of between 160 and 190 yards if
positioned correctly, but the green provides
a generous target with little to guard it. Par is
an acceptable score on this stroke index 1 hole.
The 19th hole
A well-appointed clubhouse is stocked with a full range of
amenities including billiards and tennis. The Banyan Café
has alfresco and air-conditioned dining with international
and Thai menus. An indoor golf teaching centre uses state-
of-the-art equipment with advice on-hand from one of the
club’s resident PGA professionals. Aside from the driving
range, extensive practise facilities include chipping areas,
practise bunkers and putting greens, allowing players to
work on their short and long games alike.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Individual, Family, Corporate
Green fee: 3,900 THB
Caddie fee: 280 THB, Golf Cart hire: Not available
Facilities: Accommodation | Equipment Rental | Pro Shop |
Driving range | Resident Professional | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Tel. +66 (0)76 270 991-2, Fax. +66 (0)76 324 351
e. golf@lagunaphuket.com
w. www.lagunaphuket.com/golfclub
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 MISSION HILLS PHUKET
Golf Resort & Spa
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Jack Nicklaus | Opened 2004
About the course
Set in a beautiful seaside location on the east of Phuket
overlooking Phang Nga Bay, it sports all the Nicklaus
trademarks; big, strategic and lots of waste bunkers along
with plenty of water hazards to keep the golfers on their
toes. It’s not overly long at 6,308 yards off the blue tees, or
a very generous 6,009 yards off the whites. Accuracy is the
requirement here and, given its seaside location, the wind can
be a factor. With two greens right on the waterfront, another
hole with a double green and a finishing hole with a choice of
two greens (depending on the green keeper!), there’s plenty
of interest and challenge for golfers of any level.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 4th 157 yards par 3 is the first of the
ocean holes. The green is slightly raised
with the water behind and a small sliver of
fairway to the front right; the rest is sand.
The yardage suggests a 6 or 7 iron and a
draw over the right edge, curling round
towards the centre of the green. Bail out
to the right is possible, leaving
a chip and a putt, but the best
option is the centre and a
chance of par or birdie. Anything
too long might mean wading into
the sea to retrieve the ball.
The 13th 559 yards par 5 is the longest par 5 on
the course and is three solid hits for all levels,
depending on the tee box chosen; the ladies in
particular will find this a long hole and will need
to get a good drive and second to make the
green in regulation. Although essentially a flat
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hole, making the judgment
of distance is tricky. Playing
left to take some distance off
the hole will set up a second shot to an island
of grass surrounded by bunkers. A convex green
will require an accurate third shot to stay on.
The 18th 352 yards par 4 has two greens, one offset
right with more water in play and one straighter,
but with water and bunkers guarding it. For the
right green, a tee shot between the water and the
left fairway bunker should give a good angle in.
For the left, a straighter and bigger hit clearing the
bunker will leave the shortest route to the hole. At
352 yards, you can afford to be conservative, with
maybe a fairway wood off the tee and then leave a
sensible 8 or 9 iron to the flag.
The 19th hole
The Nibblers Bar and Lounge as well as the Patio Café have
panoramic views over the holes near the clubhouse and
towards the sea, serving Thai and international fare. It’s a
lovely atmosphere to tarry a while after the game and just
soak up the view. There’s also a 72-room resort offering all
that you might expect of a 5-star facility, including swimming
pool, spa, Jacuzzi, well-stocked library, conference rooms,
banqueting facilities and a complimentary gymnasium for
anyone that plays the course.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: Not available
Green fee: 3,800 THB
Caddie fee: 300 THB, Golf Cart hire: 700 THB
Facilities: Accommodation | Driving range | Equipment
Rental | Pro Shop | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)76 310888, Fax. +66 (0)76 310899
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 225 9803-5, (0)2 226 3390
Fax. +66 (0)2 222 9021, e. info@missionhillsphuket.com
w. www.missionhillsphuket.com
165
 SANTIBURI SAMUI
Country Club
18 Holes | Par 72 | By Pirapon Namatra & Edward
Thiele | Opened 2004
About the course
They say golf is simply a matter of physics and vectors; well,
you’ll need all that and more on this challenging championship
layout set in forest covered hills overlooking Mae Nam.
Scenically, it’s a gem with fantastic views out into the Gulf of
Thailand, but it’s such a hard walk that both caddies and golf
carts are compulsory. The elevation changes on many holes
play a significant part in the overall degree of difficulty and,
combined with lots of palm and fir trees, cliffs and creeks, the
course requires that you bring a fully functioning golf brain
with you as well as a healthy stock of golf balls.
Playing the course: Blue tees
The 6th 149 yards par 3 drops over 130 feet
downhill from the tee box and, although
short, it’s mighty tight with a hill to the
right, forest and the waterfall covering the
left and the back of the green. With such a
huge drop, club selection is all important
with one or even two clubs less than
normal being the smart decision. Being
short and leaving a
chip and a putt is far
better than loading
again from the tee if the ball sails into
the forest due to an over hit shot.
The 13th 376 yards par 4 has a creek in front
of the tee boxes and another one roughly
100 yards from the green, asking you to hit to
a landing area. Just standing on the tee looking
at what lies ahead should get you thinking about
this hole. With a hill running down the left and
166
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
SOUTHERN REGION GOLF COURSES
forest along the right, a bit of care and
attention is required. The second shot is
slightly back uphill, so choose the club
carefully and hit it to the centre of the
green to make par. Like everything here, straight is good.
The 17th 597 yards par 5 and signature hole is the
longest off the blue tees and 499 yards off the
whites. The drive is almost blind, but needs to
avoid the cliffs on the right of the fairway;
the second needs to be a lay up. There’s a
creek angling away from you right where
a lay up would land, so you have a choice:
risk trying to get over it or leave it short
and face a longer third. A clover leaf
shaped green with three protective
bunkers makes this hole justifiably
stroke index 2.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse sits high on a hill overlooking a heavily
wooded part of Koh Samui, with neighbouring island Koh
Phangan in the distance. It’s quite breathtaking to sit in
the open air dining area and watch the last rays of sunlight
disappear and twilight set in. Food is the standard fare of Thai
and international cuisine but the appeal of this 19th hole is
the setting and the fabulous views.
Memberships & facilities
Memberships available: None available
Green fee: 4,350 THB
Caddie fee & Golf Cart hire: Included in green fee
Facilities: Driving range | Equipment Rental | Pro Shop |
Resident Professional | Massage | Restaurant
Contact & Location
Course Tel. +66 (0)77 421700-8, Fax. +66 (0)77 421709
Bangkok Office Tel. +66 (0)2 260 2530-5
Fax. +66 (0)2 260 7570
e. golfreservation@santiburi.com, w. www.santiburi.com
167
 DIRECTORY
Southern Region
How to get there
Phuket and can be reached by road and air. Koh Samui can
be reached by road, air and sea and indirectly by rail.
By air: There are direct flights to Phuket International Airport
from a number of neighbouring countries and direct domestic
flights between Chiang Mai, Koh Samui and Pattaya. Flights
to and from Chiang Rai and Hua Hin are via Bangkok’s Don
Muang or Suvarnabhumi International Airport.
Koh Samui International Airport is directly accessed from Hong
Kong, Singapore, Phuket with Bangkok Airways and Bangkok
Suwanabumi International Airport with Bangkok Airways and
Thai Airways International. For further information contact:
Bangkok Airways: Within Thailand, Tel. 1771; from outside
Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 265 5555.
Nok Air: Tel. from within Thailand, Tel. 1318; from outside
Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955
Thai Airways International: Tel. +66 (0)2 356 1111
By road and car ferry to Koh Samui: The drive to the car ferry
services at Donsak takes around 9 hours from Bangkok. There
are two ferry lines only a few hundred metres apart and boats
depart every hour or so for the 90-minute crossing. Vehicles
generally join a queuing system to board the ferries, which
can be quite arduous during weekends and public holidays.
An advanced booking system does take away some of the
pain. For reservations contact Seatran, Tel. +66 (0)77 251555.
By train and boat to Koh Samui: Trains depart Bangkok
Hua Lumphong Railway Station to the mainland town of
Surat Thani with a travel time of between nine to 12 hours,
depending on which service is taken. Express boats regularly
depart Surat Thani for the two and a half hour journey to
Koh Samui. For further information contact Hua Lumphong
Railway Station, Tel. +66 (0)2 223 7010
Local transport
Taxis and limousines can be arranged through most hotels or
at the island’s airports and are ideal for getting to and from
the golf course and exploring the beaches.
Self drive car hire: There are several local car hire companies
around the tourist beaches of both islands and a couple of
internationally established agencies. An international or local
driving licence will be required as well as valid passport.
Hertz: Phuket International Airport, Tel. +66 (0)76 328545,
Koh Samui International Airport, +66 (0)77 425011
Avis (Thailand): Phuket International Airport,
Tel. +66 (0)76 351243-4, Koh Samui International Airport,
Tel. +66 (0)84 700 8161
Budget (Thailand): Phuket, Tel. +66 (0)76 205396, Koh Samui
International Airport, +66 (0)77 427188-9
168
PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
SOUTHERN REGION DIRECTORY
Where to eat
There are countless restaurants across both islands; for the
best up-to-date information on Phuket’s eateries, look out
for Image Asia’s pocket publication ‘Where to Eat in Phuket’
– it’s very comprehensive. There is also an online version:
www.wheretoeat-phuket.com.
On Koh Samui the beaches of Chaweng and Lamai has a
selection of International restaurants. Service can be slow
but the food is good and reasonably priced. The island is
particularly noted for its delicious seafood and coconut
dishes. Resorts also have their own restaurants and the
majority are well worth patronising.
For best information and insight on where and what to eat,
PG see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching during 2011 −
and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
Hospitals on Phuket
Bangkok Phuket Hospital, in Phuket City
24 Hr Contacts Centre: Within Thailand, Tel. 1719; from
outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)76 254425
Phuket International Hospital, on by-pass road,
between Tesco Lotus & Central Festival
Emergency Ambulance: Tel. +66 (0)76 210935
Hospitals on Koh Samui
Bangkok Samui Hospital, just outside Chaweng Beach
Tel. +66 (0)77 429500
Samui International Hospital, on Chaweng Beach
Tel. +66(0)77 230781-2
Other courses
In 1989 Phuket Country Club was established and, since
then, has added a very challenging extra nine holes. Laguna
Phuket Golf Club, also on Phuket, is currently undergoing
a redesign, including a new clubhouse. Tublamu Navy Golf
Course is an interesting place, just up the road to the north
of the course at Thai Muang, which is currently undergoing
a completely new layout, accommodation and even the
addition of a marina. This will be a place to look out for in the
coming years.
Further south in Hat Yai is Southern Hills Golf & Country Club,
another Dye Design Inc. layout, which is worth a game if
you‘re in the area.
For further information contact the Tourism Authority of
Thailand, Phuket, Tel. +66 (0)76 212213. Koh Samui, Tel.
+66 (0)77 281828.
169
 ALPHABETICAL INDEX PG POCKET GUIDE GOLF THAILAND
ALPHABETICAL INDEX

Golf Courses Page Regional introductions Page

Banyan Golf Club, Hua Hin-Cha Am ................................................................ 134 Bangkok ........................................................................................................................... 66
Blue Sapphire Island Golf & Resort, Western Region ............................... 122 Eastern Region ............................................................................................................. 82
Chiangmai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort, Northern Region ............... 108 Hua Hin & Cha Am .................................................................................................... 128
Chiangmai Inthanon Golf & Natural Resort, Northern Region ......... 106 Khao Yai Region .......................................................................................................... 92
Dragon Hills Golf and Country Club, Western Region ........................... 124 Northern Region ........................................................................................................ 100
Gassan Khuntan Golf & Resort, Northern Region ..................................... 110 Southern Region ........................................................................................................ 152
Gassan Lake City Golf Club & Resort, Northern Region ...................... 112 Western Region .......................................................................................................... 120
Imperial Lakeview (The), Hua Hin-Cha Am ................................................. 146
Regional directories
Laguna Phuket Golf Club, Southern Region ................................................ 162
Bangkok ........................................................................................................................... 80
Lam Luk Ka Country Club, Bangkok ................................................................ 72
Eastern Region ............................................................................................................. 90
Loch Palm Golf Club, Southern Region ........................................................... 154
Hua Hin & Cha Am .................................................................................................... 150
Lotus Valley Golf Resort, Bangkok ................................................................... 74
Khao Yai Region .......................................................................................................... 98
Mae Jo Golf Club & Resort, Northern Region ............................................ 102
Northern Region ........................................................................................................ 118
Majestic Creek Country Club (The), Hua Hin-Cha Am .......................... 148
Southern Region ........................................................................................................ 168
Mission Hills Phuket Golf Resort & Spa, Southern Region ................... 164
Western Region .......................................................................................................... 126
Muang Kaew Golf, Bangkok ................................................................................. 76
Navatanee Golf Course, Bangkok ..................................................................... 78 Features
Palm Hills Golf Resort & Country Club, Hua Hin-Cha Am ................... 142 About the author ....................................................................................................... 14
Phoenix Golf & Country Club, Eastern Region ........................................... 84 About Pocket Guide GOLF Thailand ............................................................... 16
Rayong Green Valley Country Club, Eastern Region .............................. 86 Charity golf .................................................................................................................... 62
Red Mountain Golf Course, Southern Region ............................................ 158 Custom clubmakers ................................................................................................ 52
Royal Hills Golf Resort & Spa, Khao Yai Region .......................................... 94 Golf − a family game ................................................................................................ 48
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, Hua Hin-Cha Am ........................................... 144 Golfing in & around Thailand .............................................................................. 42
Santiburi Country Club Chiang Rai, Northern Region ........................... 114 Golfing tips and tricks ............................................................................................. 64
Santiburi Samui Country Club, Southern Region ..................................... 166 Health for golf .............................................................................................................. 30
Sir James Country Club Forest Hills, Khao Yai Region ............................ 96 Introduction to Thailand ........................................................................................ 18
Springfield Village Golf & Spa, Hua Hin-Cha Am ...................................... 138 Living the golf lifestyle ............................................................................................ 32
Thana City Golf and Sports Club, Bangkok ................................................. 68 Thailand’s 'Golfing Gems' − the caddies ...................................................... 60
St Andrews Hill 2000, Eastern Region .............................................................. 88 The ‘Card Wreckers’ − Top 18 holes .................................................................. 54
Waterford Valley Chiangrai Golf Club & Resort, Northern Region .... 116 Travelling to & around Thailand ........................................................................ 26

PG PG
170 171
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