Talk about a dream incentive for golfers: 88 guests took the ride of a lifetime last fall, circling the globe by private jet and making stops at eight of the world's best courses. A full-time golf director prearranged tee times and had the players' clubs waiting for them upon arrival at each course. The 24-day trip, which cost $39,800 per golfer, was organized by Intrav, a St. Louis-based deluxe tour operator.
Tech Trends Want golf course information fast? The Drive! CD-ROM offers details on more than 15,000 golf courses nationwide, everything from course descriptions and ratings to greens fees and cart rental rates. A search feature lets you look for courses based on your criteria; other options allow you to print maps and course details, access travel directions, and enter your own notes. Cost: $29.95; call (800) 562-4653.
Need help managing your golf tournament? Golf Maestro Software tracks data such as handicap and size information for each golfer; assigns foursomes or fivesomes based on your criteria; produces score cards; makes signage for the event; and much more. Cost: $995; call (800) 438-6498.
* The American Golf Corporation, a Santa Monica, Calif.-based golf course management company, has launched a new incentive program: American Golf Corporate Services. It offers full service for golf events, corporate memberships at public and private clubs, pre-paid golf passes, and merchandise to reward clients and employees. Call 800-T-OFF-NOW.
* Costa Cruises and Paradise Golf will present a "Golf Academy at Sea" from November through April. Departing each Sunday from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., guests will take part in professional golf clinics onboard two five-star ships and visit the Caribbean's premier courses to play in golf tournaments. Call 800-GO-COSTA for more information.
* The Wailea Golf and Tennis Clubs at Maui's Wailea Resort have published a free guide for meeting and incentive planners on organizing golf and tennis events. Request the 35-page guide titled "How to Plan Great Golf & Tennis Events for Groups," by phone at (800) 332-1614 or by e-mail at marketing@wailea-golf.com.
