So, you’ve always wanted to take that golf trip to Ireland but just haven’t gotten around to it. Maybe you discussed a trip with your friends, or bringing your dad on a trip of a lifetime, or maybe a group of couples hoping to travel together? What a shame then that this whole coronavirus pandemic put those plans on hold for a little while longer. Well, maybe not! Here are a few very good reasons why now is the absolute perfect time to consider that golf vacation to the Emerald Isle!
Postponements
Ireland is a popular place for golfers. Every year between the end of May and the beginning of October, tens of thousands of golfers from all over the world descend on this tiny island with clubs in hand. This year, with travel bans in place, the vast majority of these visitors are staying at home and have instead postponed their trips for twelve months until 2021. As a result, some of the most famous golf courses in the world now have more than their fair share of availability where they would not otherwise expect it. While domestic demand will fill some of the gaps, it certainly won’t be enough to cover the estimated 25,000 US golfers alone who cross the fairways each year. A word of caution, however. While availability may have improved, not every golf course is lowering their green fees to attract your business. Many are, and there are great deals to be found at some of the world’s Top 100 golf courses this summer and fall.
Value
A round of golf in Ireland is not just about the famous names of Ballybunion, Royal Portrush, and Portmarnock. Many of Ireland’s best golfing experiences are to be had on what might otherwise be considered its second-tier courses; those who are not in the highest echelons of the world ranking. Golf courses such as Ardglass in County Down, Dooks in County Kerry, and Carne in County Mayo are among some of the best experiences to be found anywhere. These courses often find themselves on the itineraries of our American cousins and as a result, they are suffering from that lack of income this summer. We recommend you pick up the phone and speak to a member of staff to see what they can do for you as there are great deals to be discovered, and a bit of Irish ‘craic’ can go a long way to get you well. deal with
The “social” aspect.
The term ‘social distance’ quickly found its way into our everyday lexicon. There are many challenges surrounding these new regulations. Hospitality businesses along with golf courses are doing their best to ensure we are all safe, but some people fear that imposing social distancing will have a detrimental impact on their holiday experience . However, as we all know, the Irish defined what it means to be ‘social’ centuries ago! Ireland is without a doubt the friendliest, safest and most fun places to visit on the planet. It will take a lot more than a global pandemic to stop the Irish from having a good time and it is a country where the glass is always half full! Trust me, now is as good a time as any to visit, because very little will spoil the Irish spirit.
Beauty and Quality
The Irish landscape is one of the most beautiful in the world. From historic cities such as Kilkenny to its beautiful North Antrim coastline; ancient castles to KISS the stones Blarney to the rolling countryside, few places on planet earth can compete. The recent lockdown has made Ireland even more beautiful if that is possible! The golf courses got an unexpected ‘break’ for three months when they would have been busy with early season golfers and are in pristine condition. The natural landscape has blossomed, the air is cleaner and you feel that nature has been given a well-deserved break. Ireland is looking great; Its golf courses are even better and its people are raring to go. More great reasons to consider a golf holiday to Ireland right now.
Security
Ireland is one of the safest places to visit on the planet, and has handled the recent pandemic better than most countries around the world. The golf and hospitality industry has implemented strict health and safety reopening protocols to ensure everyone has the reassurance they need to visit and enjoy their facilities. In many cases, these environments have probably never been safer, or cleaner, than they are today, so now is the perfect time to visit.
About the Author
Tom Cotter is the owner of The Consummate Pro Golf & Travel, a professional golf tour operator based in Belfast, Northern Ireland. They design golf holidays in Ireland and the UK as well as select destinations around the world. When not at his desk, Tom can probably be found in a fairway somewhere, traveling the US or writing.