Alaska Airlines has added its first-ever flights to the Bahamas with nonstops from both Los Angeles and Seattle. The airline is also adding new routes between Las Vegas and both Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.

All four new international routes begin flying in mid-December.

RELATED: Alaska Adds More Non-Stop Service to Florida

For a limited time, introductory fares for flights between Los Angeles and Nassau start at $169 one-way and flights between Seattle and Nassau start at $199 one-way. Flights from Las Vegas to Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta start at $139 one-way. Tickets are available for purchase now at Alaskaair.com.

“We’re excited to add a ‘new dot’ to our route map and believe our guests will appreciate the convenience of nonstop service to the Bahamas this winter,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines. “Whether our guests choose to stay in Nassau, or venture to the outer islands, the pristine beaches and crystal clear waters of the Bahamas await.”

The new flights to the Bahamas are a first for Alaska Airlines to the Caribbean nation. The morning departures from both Los Angeles and Seattle allow guests to arrive in Nassau in the late afternoon.

Alaska Airlines’ new service to Nassau will become its 101st nonstop destination from its hometown airport in Seattle.

Las Vegas becomes a new Alaska gateway to two of Mexico’s most popular destinations from the West Coast: Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. Both flights depart Las Vegas late in the morning for a midday arrival.

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When the 2023 Ryder Cup begins on September 29, golf fans across the world will undoubtedly take one look at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club and decide that Rome needs to be on the travel wish list. Obviously, thanks to The White Lotus and the general awesomeness of the Amalfi Coast, Italy has already been one of the hottest tourism destinations in the world over the last year, but at the very least it is about to become a haven for golfers who crave the most beautiful courses as well.

You don’t need to be a scienziato missilistico, though, to know that golf will only fill a few hours on what should be the itinerary of your dreams. That’s why Marco Simone will need to share the spotlight with a majestic property set in the heart of the Eternal City—especially one that already excels at creating an authentic, educational experience that will make guests feel like they’re in their home away from home.

That property is Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

As the Old Saying Goes

If St. Ambrose had a nickel for every time someone used some form of the phrase, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do,” his descendants would never work a day in their lives. But first-time visitors probably don’t know what it is that Romans actually do, so that’s why this spectacular hotel goes the distance in offering “La Dolce Vita.”

Not only can guests experience Rome from the seats of a classic Italian automobile, but unlike the Clark Griswolds of the world, they’ll have only the best local guides explaining the importance of each sight and landmark while also serving as chauffeur. (If you haven’t seen Nick Kroll’s latest Netflix special, he has a great bit about not being able to drive stick in Italy, and it’ll only reassure your desire to sit back and let an expert do the work.)

Don’t spread out too much, though, because guests will also be joined by a private photographer, who will be capturing epic photos in front of those landmarks so they can come home in a special photo album. That’s way better than keeping it all on a memory card in your Insta360.

Make It an Imperial Affair

There’s no wrong choice when it comes to booking accommodations here, but guests who want the VIP feeling and the ability to bypass the hustle and bustle of the main lobby should join the Imperial Club. With a private floor and myriad spoils, this exclusive option is highlighted by the Imperial Rome View rooms that offer balconies with arguably the best views in the city. In fact, some might feel like the only things missing are a toga and gold laurel.

But Let’s Not Forget the Golf

What’s great about a course hosting an event as big and important as the Ryder Cup is that Marco Simone has never looked better. The fairways and greens are practically glowing ahead of September’s big showdown, and this will also be the home of the next Italian Open as well. Naturally, it’s going to be tough to get a tee time here during certain stretches.

The good news is the hotel is offering a special golf experience ahead of the huge event, so anyone bringing their clubs to Rome’s most spectacular property will have the chance to see just how well they’d hang with the world’s best. At the very least, they’ll have some spectacular selfies in front of Marco Simone castle and St. Peter’s Dome to share while the pros are handling their business.

The post Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, Wants Guests to Live their Ryder Cup Dreams appeared first on Islands.

Hyatt Hotels will soon be opening Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort, which will offer guests a premium experience in Montenegro’s stunning Kotor Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The property will be the first Hyatt hotel in Montenegro. Set against the backdrop of majestic cliffs and the Adriatic Sea, the contemporary property is ideally located on the outskirts of Kotor, one of the country’s most charming cities celebrated for its preserved old town.

Seamlessly blending urban convenience with breathtaking vistas along the Montenegrin coastline, guests will be surrounded by a picturesque fjord-like landscape of unparalleled beauty. With this new addition to the Hyatt Regency portfolio, the brand’s intentional growth further showcases Hyatt’s commitment to offering travel experiences in places that matter most to guests and World of Hyatt members.

“The Balkan region serves as a driving force for the rapid growth of the hospitality industry, and our Hyatt Regency brand is strategically positioned to enter emerging markets,” said Takuya Aoyama, vice president of development for Hyatt. “We are honored to work with Krolbay d.o.o. Podgorica to bring our resort experience to one of Europe’s most rapidly developing destinations.”

After the finishing touches are completed, Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort will be comprised of 205 guest rooms, offering an upscale experience inspired by the sophisticated allure of its coastal surroundings. Embracing natural hues and incorporating tastefully subdued blue design accents, the resort creates an inviting contemporary atmosphere for its guests. The property will also feature two outdoor pools, an indoor pool, and private waterfront access.

Guests of the resort will have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, a dedicated space for yoga and pilates, and expansive spa facilities. Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort is also expected to feature six dining venues.

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Is this the summer of the electric bike? If not, I am hereby naming it so. Now more than ever, travelers should want to own one of these convenient, stylish rides, because they not only get you from Point A to Point B (within reasonable distance) but they’ll get you there quicker and with a little wind in your hair. And if you want to add a little personality and pizazz to the trip, the Vanpowers UrbanGlide Electric Bike is the way to do it.

What I really like about this brand and concept, aside from the fun colors, is how the trio of models is based on rider height. There’s a decent risk that comes with ordering an e-bike online, because it might be a little smaller or bigger than what you want, and returning it is a hassle unlike any other. So, you can simply peruse the Standard, Pro, and Ultra bikes by height and then it’s just a matter of fighting the urge to go with the subtle Gunmetal Blue (a fine choice, of course) over the far more fun Remy Green and Lava Red.

Beyond that, it’s just a matter of finding what else you need for this summer of fun.

Virgo Electric Bike Helmet

The first thing I purchased after acquiring several awesome electric bikes was a durable, dependable helmet. What I didn’t expect was how difficult it would be to choose a style somewhere in between standard bicycle and full-on motorcycle. After all, I need something to protect my noggin at slightly higher speeds and on longer rides, but I don’t need a helmet that will be a pain to carry around if I’m taking the e-bike for coffee or a morning session of answering emails at lakeside.

Along comes Virgo. My first impression of this Kickstarter effort that has already blown away its goal is that it reminds me of the old Lego spaceman helmet. But that chin bar is just one of the features that makes this such a safe choice, as I also love the simple visor for keeping bugs out of your eyes and especially the light on the back of the helmet. You can’t ever have too many ways to let people know you’re cruising.

Isle Pioneer Pro Stand-Up Paddleboard

What’s better than an inflatable stand-up paddleboard that packs easily for road trips to the lake? One that also conveniently converts into a kayak for those casual fishing excursions when all a person wants is a little me, myself, and I on the open water. The Isle Pioneer Pro Stand-Up Paddleboard comes in three sizes and two stylish, tropical color patterns so they’re a fantastic combo of flashy and fun.

BOTE Hangout Water Hammock

When it comes to a lake trip, some people want to explore while others want to chillax. Both are exception choices, and few brands deliver for each type of traveler like BOTE, which also offers an exceptional variety of inflatable paddleboards and kayaks. But I’m feeling lazy right now, so I just want to lounge, and there’s nothing I’d rather do that on than the BOTE Hangout Water Hammock.

Available in two sizes, the smaller version is ideal for the lone lounger or the couple that floats together, while the larger version is fantastic for those recreational squad goals. No matter the need, the design is as durable as it is convenient, and it’s sure to be a hit at your preferred water spot.

Little Tykes Cozy Coup

Most parents likely instantly recognize the classic red and yellow design of the Little Tikes car that allows toddlers to use their Flintstones feet up and down the driveway. But that’s a relic compared to the new hotness: the Little Tykes Cozy Coup, a reimagined version that allows children to get used to the pool in ultimate style.

The best part is the little motor that safely moves kiddos around the pool, so they can feel like the world’s youngest boat captains, all while parents continue to relax while knowing nothing could possibly stop this fun.

PoolCandy Jet Runner

Toddlers don’t get to have all the fun. Bigger kids can get in on the motorized action with the PoolCandy Jet Runner, which is basically an inflatable jet ski for beginners. Children up to 100 lbs. will look and feel cool as mom’s cucumber marg as they zip around the pool with the help of the battery-powered motor that is simple to control and safely position beneath the vessel.

Just be warned that this is the gateway toy to a lifetime of zooming around lakes on the real deal.

PoolCandy SplashRunner

And let’s not leave the parents out of the fun, ok? The PoolCandy SplashRunner is about as good as it gets when it comes to a floating lounger, but sometimes we need a little boost when going from side of the pool to the other for a scoop of guacamole or to grab a refill on those cucumber margs. The 66-watt motor and controls will help maneuver this bad boy with ease.

For extra fun, buy a foghorn so people know to get out of the way.

Pure Outdoor Portable Refrigerator

If I was ranking my least favorite things about hosting friends and family for pool parties, having to get just the right amount of ice would be near the top of the list, right below sharing my favorite mezcal with other people. Fortunately, I took the ice part out of the equation when I acquired the Pure Outdoor 25L Portable Refrigerator, which not only keeps plenty of beverages and snacks cool, but it does so quickly.

That means when you want to throw together a little soiree on a moment’s notice, it’s as simple as plugging it in and waiting for the White Claws and Trader Joe’s cheese pack to get just right for everyone.

Big Dill Pickleball Co. Superstar Set

Have you heard? Pickleball is pretty much the hottest vacation sport on the planet. Resorts across the U.S., Caribbean, and Mexico are all building their own pickleball arenas, because this game is ideal for anyone who wants to add some fitness to the itinerary while making it fun for the whole family.

As such, there’s no better way to start the quest for domination than with the Big Dill Pickleball Co. Superstar Set, which includes four paddles and balls so the crew can practice in the backyard before taking the newfound skills and intensity to a tropical resort. Massive trophy not included.

Aloha Collection Day Tripper

When you’re not hosting a pool party, you should be finding one to attend, which means you’ll need to pack essential gear in a way that won’t burden you. Start with the stylish choice: Aloha Collection’s creative variety of Day Tripper bags. Founded by native Hawaiian women, this company has developed some truly awesome accessories for a variety of occasions, including hip packs, drink “coldies,” and even miniature Bluetooth speakers for when you need to take DJing into your own hands.

But the versatile Day Tripper is a great first choice, because it can go practically anywhere—the beach, on a plane, to the gym, etc.—and its durable design means it’ll handle the elements, while also being packable in case you need to get everything into one suitcase for the return trip.

MOOV Convertible Catalyst Laptop Bag

Planning to do a little work at poolside this summer? Pro tip: don’t forget to turn your video off on Zoom calls, but also pick the right bag for when you’re moving your office to a resort or rental home. The MOOV Convertible Catalyst Laptop Bag is the bee’s knees when it comes to organization, as the clever design includes clear pockets for all your work supplies, a holder for a water bottle or tumbler, and even a USB charger.

But what I really love about this bag is how all the perks combine to make it the Voltron of portable workspaces. Just unzip the front and it folds down to a desk organizer that your laptop can sit on and remain secure when people splash or drink condensation drips like crazy.

Academy Sports + Outdoors Retro Collection

Okay, maybe I could have started with the basics, because that’s exactly what Academy Sports has rolled out for the 4^th of July and your general beach and pool needs. This patriotic collection includes everything from tank tops and a bucket hat to a very affordable portable folding chair and an Igloo cooler for keeping the Capri Suns and White Claws ice-cold for the entire crew.

Costa del Mar Sullivan Sunglasses

If there’s a fact you can set your watch to, it’s that you can never go wrong with Costa del Mar’s sunglasses. From deep sea fishing excursions to lounging by the resort pool, there is truly a style for every kind of traveler, and what makes them so exceptional is that you can also rely on them to take some bumps and survive the elements no matter which destination you choose.

The latest style that found an instant spot in my sunglasses organizer is the Sullivan, which is a classic look with a hint of sophistication. In fact, it’s an all-for-one design that will look as good on the catamaran as it will in a 5-star restaurant. And the rose gradient polarized glass is especially great for those dining options that have the best sunset views.

Duvin Design Co. Kids Collection

One of the most creative brands in clothing has finally developed some fashionable swim gear for our smaller travelers. If you’re familiar with Duvin Design Co.’s funky styles—including the exceptional cabana sets—then you know they’re nothing short of head-turners when you’re strolling around the resort pool, searching for the perfect loungers. Now, kids will have a blast matching parents with the debut of swim trunks ranging from 2T through 9/10 and boasting loud, creative looks.

Hydros Water Filter Bottle and Pitcher

You shouldn’t need a reminder to stay hydrated in the blazing days ahead, but the easiest way to always remain refreshed is by keeping a water bottle handy. And if you’re always out and about, the ideal choice is the Hydros 20 oz Water Filter Bottle, which not only features and easy to open rocker cap, but it also has the filter for when the water source might raise an eyebrow.

Entertaining guests and want to limit your plastic usage? Hydros has the 64 oz. Glass Water Filter Pitcher for convenience and style. Throw a few lemon, orange, or cucumber slices for a little flavor and spend the day listening to your favorite summer hits without having to move too much for refills.

ZoomBroom Tornado

After the party, when there’s no chance for an afterparty, you’re going to want to clean as quickly as possible. Busting out the leaf blower might be a bit too extreme, so if you have a smaller mess but still want to handle it with the quickest of ease, the ZoomBroom Tornado is the blower that will do the trick. I’ve used mine for clean-up duties several times, and it is especially great for when you have kids that tend to drop a lot of tiny pieces of food. Blow it all into the corner, sweep it into a trash bag, and you’re good to get back to lounging.

But I also love the Tornado for its portability, and that makes it a must-have for campers with RVs and tents that are dirty from all the hiking. Heck, golfers can even use it to clear leaves from the green, but then they’ll have to blame something else when they three-putt anyway.

The post All the Gear You Need for a Summer of Extreme Fun in the Sun appeared first on Islands.

A recent surge in passport applications has led to significantly extended waiting periods for applicants. New data from Squaremouth, the leading US travel insurance marketplace, confirms these delays come at a time of growing demand for international travel, and offers advice for concerned travelers.

In 2023, travelers are planning their international trips less than 19 weeks in advance. The latest reports from the U.S. Department of State reveal travelers applying for a passport are having to wait roughly 13 weeks to receive their book in the mail.

With wait times likely to increase with demand, travelers heading abroad should confirm their passports are valid for their travel dates and take immediate action if they are set to expire. Keep in mind that some destinations may require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond the trip dates.

In May 2023, 89.4% of insurance policies sold on Squaremouth were for international destinations, the most of any month this year. Squaremouth also reports the cost of international travel continues to rise, increasing the financial impact should a trip be affected by passport delays.

Many policies, almost half of the plans found on Squaremouth, offer an optional Cancel For Any Reason (“CFAR”) upgrade, which can provide reimbursement for issues not covered under a standard plan, including any passport issue. CFAR policies average roughly $599 this year.

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Ultra-luxury cruise line Seabourn is elevating its 24-hour in-suite dining menus with an enhanced and extensive array of elegantly presented gourmet dishes, curated by the line’s team of highly skilled chefs.

The new menus will debut on Seabourn Venture’s June 18, 2023 voyage, and will extend to the line’s fleet of intimate, yacht-like ships by October 2023.

The new menu includes lighter and fresher vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as Rustic Garden Vegetable Minestrone a la Genovese, Franck’s Riviera Style Vegetable Tartine, and “Fregola con Melanzane” Sardinian Tomato Fregola Pasta & Oven Roasted Purple Eggplant Confit. There will also be classic and traditional dishes with a twist, including Crispy Skin Fresh Alaskan Salmon Fillet, Thyme Roasted Jidori Chicken Breast, and Oven Roasted Free Range Chicken Sausage Casserole. In addition, there will be new dessert options to satisfy the sweet tooth, such as Tony’s Childhood Banana Split and Black Forest Sundae.

The new in-suite dining menus were developed in partnership with Master Chef and Culinary Consultant Chef Anton Egger, and Senior Corporate Chef Franck Salein.

“At Seabourn, we are unwavering in our commitment to providing ultra-luxury experiences that delight all the senses. Our culinary offerings have long been celebrated for their superb quality, and we take great pride in offering world-class gourmet dining on our ships,” said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. “The new in-suite dining menus will further elevate our onboard culinary experience, allowing our guests to savor the exceptional taste and sophistication of our cuisine right in the comfort of their own suites.”

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The post Seabourn Cruises Adds Gourmet Vegan to Dining Options appeared first on Islands.

Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island has opened as the first Texas beachfront resort in the Margaritaville portfolio. Set on a prime location in South Padre Island, the destination uniquely offers all-ocean view rooms and condos with a fun, relaxed “no worries” vibe.

“We are thrilled to bring Margaritaville to the South Texas coast, allowing locals, guests, and visitors alike to experience a one-of-a-kind oasis,” said Rone Middler, General Manager of Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island. “An easy drive or plane trip from the major metro areas of San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and Houston and convenient access to Mexico, Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island provides the perfect getaway for guests of all ages looking for fun, relaxation, and adventure.”

Highline Hospitality Partners invested more than $30 million to completely transform the Pearl Hotel South Padre into a Margaritaville resort that reflects the quintessential laidback lifestyle.

Guests are immediately transported to a vacation state of mind in the island-inspired design of the resort’s 200 guestrooms and 50 beachfront condos with one, two, or three-bedroom configurations.

Dining options include three restaurants and bars, including LandShark Bar & Grill, which offers indoor and outdoor patio seating overlooking the Gulf of Mexico; the Salty Rim Bar & Grill, a swim-up bar, serving signature cocktails and bar bites; and Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions, a grab-and-go destination for bold coffee drinks and quick bites.

The area’s largest hotel pool, heated all year round, is surrounded by private cabanas and a separate area for kids. Nearby Hammock Row allows guests to swing and sway in the gulf breeze under towering palm trees while outdoor fire pits encourage guests to unwind while gazing at the Texas night sky.

Adjacent to the resort is the Sapphire Spa, offering guests the opportunity to rejuvenate with an array of blissful treatment options and a full hair and makeup salon as well as a fully equipped fitness center.

Those interested in beachside adventures can conveniently schedule activities, including windsurfing, banana boat rides, parasailing, offshore fishing, dolphin watching, or wave runner rentals at the resort’s concierge desk.

The resort hosts meetings, special events, Quinceañeras, family reunions, and weddings of every size, offering 8,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space with access to the latest audio/visual equipment and other convenient amenities.

For more information about Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island, visit here.

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The first-ever nonstop service between Belize’s Phillip S.W. Goldson Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport has begun on JetBlue Airlines.

JetBlue will fly year-round roundtrip flights three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, making New York the 11th U.S. city to do so. The first flight is slated for December 6, 2023.

“We’re thrilled to announce the new partnership between Belize and JetBlue and can’t wait to welcome JetBlue’s first-ever flight to our country in December,” said Hon. Anthony Mahler, Belize’s Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations. “This is a huge win for our ongoing efforts to make Belize accessible to more U.S. visitors, with JFK being one of the biggest air travel hubs for tens of millions of travelers. We’re excited for JetBlue to join the family of airline partners offering nonstop flight options to Belize and we invite everyone to visit and discover the beauty of this enchanting country and all that it has to offer.”

“JetBlue is committed to delivering exceptional travel experiences to our customers and our expansion to Belize reflects our dedication to connecting customers to the most popular and unique destinations,” said David Jehn, vice president of network planning and partnerships, JetBlue. “We look forward to not only introducing our low fares and great service to Belize customers but also providing access to all the cities we serve from New York.”

Belize is quickly becoming a popular destination for American travelers. As of April 2023, more than 68% of all overnight arrivals to the destination were from the United States.

As one of Central America’s most biodiverse countries, Belize is home to the largest barrier reef in the Northern and Western Hemispheres, indigenous cultures, mystical Maya caves, pristine Caribbean waters, wondrous aquatic habitats, lush tropical jungles, wildlife reserves, and cascading flora and fauna. As the only English-speaking nation in the region where the U.S. dollar is widely used, Belize makes for an excellent vacation spot full of exciting adventures. Visit Belize’s official website to find out more.

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When it comes to setting their summer vacation budgets, Americans aren’t showing any signs of slowing down. The annual Vacation Confidence Index from travel insurance and support company Allianz Partners USA revealed that for the first time, Americans are expected to spend an estimated $214 billion on summer vacations, potentially crossing the $200 billion threshold.

The amount indicates a rise of roughly 10% from 2022, 39% from 2021, astounding 261% from 2020, and remarkable 111% from pre-pandemic spending in 2019.

According to the 15th Annual Vacation Confidence Index (VCI), Americans have doubled their summer vacation spending in just four years. The average American household is projected to spend $2,830 on summer vacations in 2023, exceeding $2,000 for the fourth time since Allianz Partners started monitoring vacation spending patterns in 2009. Average predicted vacation expenditure has climbed by over $1,000 per household three years after the pandemic, which represents an increase of around 7% from 2022, 33% from 2021, 50% from 2020, and 39% from pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

“We expect to see a record-breaking number of American travelers this summer, and whether heading near or far, increased traveler numbers can mean an increased chance of travel delays,” said Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA. “While a devilish mix of inflation and strong demand have kept travel prices elevated, as our survey found, Americans are still willing to pay top dollar for a well-earned summer vacation. Protecting pre-paid expenses with a travel insurance policy that also offers travel delay coverage can end up being one of the smartest investments they can make.”

Since 2009, Allianz Partners USA has commissioned national polling company Ipsos Public Affairs to conduct the Vacation Confidence Index each summer. A vacation is regarded as a leisurely journey lasting at least a week to a location at least 100 miles away from home.

Allianz Partners offers travel insurance through most major U.S. airlines, leading travel agents, online travel agencies, hotel companies, cruise lines and directly to consumers. For more information on Allianz Partners and available travel policies, please visit the official website.

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To the average golfer, the phrase “World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses” might not mean much, but for a lot of us it is the annual reminder that Golf Digest has done all the work in creating the ultimate bucket list. When you scroll this marvelous celebration of international designs and see the photos from No. 1 Newcastle, Northern Ireland, to No. 100 Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland, it’s impossible not to want to book a trip so you can cross one off.

However, for many of us, one might be it. With courses in Japan, Dubai, New Zealand, and many other exciting destinations, we must accept the fact that our budgets and schedules will make choosing a truly difficult task. But what if a course is located near a resort community that is an ideal destination for any type of vacation? That could certainly make it easier, if it means convincing the family, that special someone, or your best friends that you know just the place for the big getaway.

For me, that place was Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf and Spa Resort, a terrific property that is as luxurious as it is entertaining. It is also home to the No. 87 entry on Golf Digest’s 2022-23 list: Quivira Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus design that opened in 2014 and instantly became a dream course for players of all skill levels. Even having heard of its reputation, I wasn’t prepared for this masterpiece.

And things are only getting better here, as Nicklaus is working on a second course and he’s promising that it will be “stunning and equally as spectacular” as Quivira G.C. Is that even possible? I can’t imagine so, but I do know that no matter how wild his first design may be, it shouldn’t scare away the average golfer.

Prepare to Make a Day of It

Quivira Golf Club is as much an epic journey as it is a round of golf. This is a sprawling course with large gaps between holes, like the long ride between holes 4 and 5, 6 and 7, and especially 15 and 16, as those last two are set on the west side of the property like they’ve been shunned from the rest. I like to think Nicklaus left so much room over here so frustrated golfers can shout their profanities all at once without disturbing the local wildlife.

In all seriousness, though, the expansive layout is my favorite thing about QGC because it allows for magnificent views at every turn, and some of the holes even feel like they’re not even on the same course. I’ve heard other golfers say they want the most bang for their buck when they’re playing golf on vacations, and this one is worth every penny and then some. So, sit back and enjoy the ride… even if you’ve lost a dozen balls by the turn.

Don’t Sweat the Tough Stuff

No matter how good the player, this is not an easy course. In fact, I’d love to see a PGA event held here so we can all watch and marvel at how the pros would play it. But don’t let the challenge scare you away. The key for golfers of any skill level is to treat a round here like a vacation in general: leave the stress at home (or in the clubhouse) and just appreciate the opportunity to play one of the best courses in the world.

When you’re below average or a beginner, a difficult design can be a deterrent for continuing, so it is crucial not to let the lost balls bother you. And there will be a lot, especially when you’ll want to hit at least three shots on the Par 3 13^th hole, with its breathtaking gap between the tee box and green. So, once you’ve stepping into that first tee box, take a deep breath, do a 360-degree twirl to take in the first sights, and repeat after me…

“It’s Time to Be Creative”

Once I put the frustration in my rearview, I realized the best course of action is to spend a little more time examining the layout of each hole and finding ways to take advantage of the designs. You know, what good golfers do. Granted, there are plenty of obstacles you won’t be able to avoid and the curves run wild on many of these holes, but common sense might actually trump talent at Quivira.

For example, one of my favorite holes on the planet is the Par 4 5^th, which the better golfers in my group Bryson’d to try and make the green in one. With a slower swing speed and a tendency to hit low runners for safer shots, I focused on sticking to the right side, keeping it on the fairway, and running it down the remarkable slope. A medium chip and two putts later, I had my only par of the round.

I more than earned my phenomenal paloma at the first course snack shack.

Shorten Your Game

While most of the rest of my game was lowlighted by double bogeys and replies of “I forget” when pressed for my actual score, I was at least able to keep the ball on the fairways by playing shorter. Three-quarter and half-swings might’ve put my ball well behind those of my cohorts, but nobody wants to hit out of the rough or sand here. Hell, the sand is at least manageable—I should know as I spent enough time there to use Shooter McGavin’s Hasselhoff joke multiple times.

The rough, though, is especially bad, and the stuff beyond that is no man’s land. Even very good golfers will be spotted kicking out of the thickness, so don’t be too hard on your buddies when you catch them picking a friendlier spot to hit from. Save the heavy roasting for when you catch them doing that tossed ball trick from a bunker.

Prepare to Storm the Shores

At most courses I play during my travels, I’m usually teamed with strangers, which is awesome because I love having someone else’s perspective, not only for golf tips, but also seeing the courses through their eyes. But with my professional mindset, I’m too often caught up in the moment of enjoying the scenery, so I feel like a broken record when I say things like, “Can you believe this is real?” and “How amazing is this view?”

On this course, however, that’s all anyone in my group of eight said. The elevation allows for the best photo opportunities, so be prepared to take selfies and group pics on every tee and green. One element that people might miss without a proper heads up from the staff is that the sprawling beach that’s best seen from the green on the 10^th hole is the spot where the battle for the Trojan beach was filmed for the movie Troy.

So, at the very least, you can tell people you’re the Achilles of scoring 110.

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