Planning a Golf Excursion to the British Isles can be intimidating, no question — especially if you're not a golfer. That's why we decided to devote the cover story of our annual golf issue to what you need to know to book some of the world's greatest courses.

For starters, plan ahead: at least a year to a year and a half out for the biggies, like St. Andrews. You'll also need to be aware of the difference between the links courses over there and the greens we're used to over here. Be ready for the uncertain weather. (As one person joked, “Americans will play golf over there in weather they wouldn't walk their dog in here.”) It's also important to understand and respect the seriousness and sense of tradition that surrounds golf in this part of the world. Don't miss the article by staff writer Michael Bassett, starting on page 14.

Our longtime golf writer, Ed Schmidt Jr., describes the excitement he felt playing the same links as Scottish-born icon Sean Connery and legendary Scottish golfer Colin Montgomerie when he visited Scotland's famous Gleneagles Resort. Read more about this year's “Editor's Choice” on page 8.

Back in the states, Ed attended the world's largest golf show, the PGA Merchandise Show, held in Orlando, Fla., every January, to scout out the hottest new apparel and products. Your golfers are looking for the latest technologies and tools to help with their game — and we found them for you, on page 33.

Planning a golf outing can be tricky, even if you're playing in your own backyard. There are so many levels of detail to consider: choosing the right course, figuring out the handicaps, budgeting, ordering signage, merchandise, awards — the list goes on and on. So we tapped some of our favorite golf experts, including members of Corporate Meetings & Incentives' Golden Links Advisory Board, for advice, tips, and timelines to help make your job easier, starting on page 39.

Back again this year is our Golf & Spa Resort Directory, combining information on the resorts' meeting facilities as well as their golf and spa offerings. After all, your group will likely be using all three. The directory starts on page 47.
Barbara Scofidio
Editor

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