raphillips

To preface my review, this round was not my first at the Waldorf-Astoria. While I understand the needs and desires of real estate owners and hotel operators to maximize property values, the recent physical changes to the course were extremely disappointing to see and experience. The layout has been compromised, not just in shortening the course to a par 70, but the changes to the hole configurations (e.g., par 5's segmented into two holes) and practice area (basically cut in half with permanent hotel function tents down the length of the area). The good news (and the reason for the two stars) is the staff remains friendly, helpful and frankly apologetic to the returning guest. And the course maintenance was superb. The bottom line? To a first time guest, the experience and value for the price paid may be acceptable. To someone who saw and enjoyed what the course once was, it was sad to see. And the lack of forewarning was also disturbing. Lastly, the revised course rating is not yet in the GHIN system, so after a better than average round, another disappointment.
PS - I cannot rate the off course amenities. Everything was closed at 4:30 PM during the holidays!

Greatest way to spend a few hours playing golf with friends and family. Always in great condition.