When you visit Australia and maybe tee up a game at the Sydney courses of the The Australlian or Royal Sydney or NSW golf club you should drive up the coast to an absolute hidden gem , Newcastle Golf Club brilliant.

The Forest Hills Golf Club in Augusta, GA is a beautiful old track. The beautifully shaped and maintained bunkers frame some tricky greens. Elevation changes, forced carries, and it all comes at a very fair price. So when you finish your round at The National, give it a try.

Bandon Crossings is one of the best and most affordable courses I have ever played on. The greens are fun and challenging and the tree lined fairways are a challenge after playing the wide open fairways of Bandon. I would definitely schedule a round of play here when considering your travel plans to Bandon.

After playing Whistling Straits, The Bull is an absolute delight. This Jack Nicklaus creation is a fair test is only 20 minutes from Whistling.

OK - I've played all but 2 of the courses on both lists (the 9 hole course and Prestwick I have not played). Most of these are very good to excellent and I would recommend playing. There are many other courses nearby these that can also be enjoyed. While the Red course at Bethpage is good, I always try to get on the Black course. I think Tobacco Road is better choice than Southern Pines if you are near Pinehurst.

Brandon Crossings was the best and most affordable destinations I have been to. Great Golf and friendly folk.

When you play Pinehurst #2 etc. You may have missed Tobacco Road

Just returned from a golf trip to SW Ireland. Tralee and Waterville are on most bucket lists but don't miss Dook's Golf Links, truly a hidden (emerald) gem!

Western Gails is a must play if you are in the West of Scotland.

When you go to Cape Breton to play The Highlands Links don't forget to stop at Cabot Cliffs and Cabot Links along the Cabot Trail on your way back to Nova Scotia. And then stop at Fox Harbour on the North side of N.S. where Tom Kite took his Ryder Cup Team to practice.