The Aussie Link

How about a winter getaway?

Weather
Average maximum temperatures (degrees Celsius)



The rainy seasons vary from area to area in Thailand - check them out on the net. I have played during rainy seasons and haven’t missed much golf. In my experience it typically rains in the afternoons and evenings. Benefits are that all prices are low season and less golfers are on the courses, particularly midweek.

Slip Slop Slap
Yes, yes, yes – what more can we say.

Hydration
I reckon drinking piss on the course is an easy way to flake out given the humidity but that’s up to you. Almost all the courses have drink stops, small kiosks, every 4 or 5 holes. Not a bad idea to stop at most of these and re-hydrate. There is a saying “if you’re thirsty it is too late”. Keep your fluids up at all times during your golfing holiday. A case of sunstroke will not make your day at all. I speak from experience!

Thai customs and a few Do’s and don’ts
Thailand is widely known as the ‘land of smiles’ – it is true. A smile in Thailand will get you everywhere whilst anger will get you nowhere. Thais regard anger as a sign of weakness. Spit the dummy in this country and you are pissing against the wind – big time! Remember that you are a guest in Thailand and you play by their rules not your own – logical when you think about it. Learn a few Thai phrases before you go – at least the common courtesies of Hi, how are you, thank you, good luck etc – just surf the net. If you at least have a go your efforts will be enjoyed and respected, even laughed at if you get the pronunciation wrong but hey, that’s all part of the rich experience.

Do not speak badly of or insult the King or the Royal Family in any way – doing so will get you into some possibly serious trouble. They are rightly revered. Look at the currency – the King’s image is on all notes, don’t screw them up ok? Don’t foist our culture on another country, absorb and learn from theirs, it is a rewarding experience. Don’t point at anything with your feet – the foot is the lowest part of the body. Don’t touch anyone on the head (e.g. patting kids on the head as we do). The head is the highest and most important part of the body to Thai people. Dress neatly in all religious temples and shrines. Never go without sleeves or in shorts Give and accept things with your right hand. Don't ever be tempted to use or carry any drugs in Thailand. Trafficking or possession of drugs (including "soft" drugs) is in many cases punished with the death penalty.

How much will it cost in Oz $?
www.oanda.com – click on the ‘fxconverter’ link on the left and go from there.

General
Each golfing day take a change of clothes with you, it gets fairly steamy on the courses. All clubs will give you a towel and a usually a plastic bag to put your wet clothes into. A 20 baht tip and a thanks to the Locker Room attendant doesn’t go astray – it isn’t much. Usually after your game you take a shower, freshen up in the often luxurious locker room facilities then go and have a light snack and a drink before being returned to your hotel. Weekend golf costs more and the pace of play is likely to be slower. Some courses offer afternoon golf at greatly reduced rates. Playing golf with your own caddie is a great experience. You feel like a pro when most of us aren’t. Once again a happy attitude and respect goes down well. Maybe shout your caddie a drink on the way around – a nice gesture and not a great cost when you consider the work they do for you for 4 hours. Bargain within reason and with good humour at all times, you will end up with a better deal. People on some courses will have golf balls for sale – usually great value. (Thai courses often have several water hazards folks).

Back to Oz
If you have taken your own clubs scrub them, used golf balls and your golf shoes thoroughly before returning otherwise you might have problems at Quarantine.

Come home with
Good memories of Thailand and its’ people and great golf. Remember your good shots, your good experiences and the new friends you have made. A vow to go again.

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Links: Ausgolf - Australia's most informative golf web site - www.ausgolf.com.au