Here is a fact that might surprise you: Mexico is the number two worldwide golf destination for U.S. golfers, right behind Hawaii. The Mexican Government Department of Tourism wants to change that ranking. That's right -- they are determined to become number one, and at the rate they are going it shouldn't take too long to achieve that goal.
To seasoned Mexico travelers the reasons are obvious. Mexico is an amazingly diverse country blessed with gorgeous locations that rival any in the world, from the stark beauty of Baja California hard against the Sea of Cortez to the new jungle courses in Puerto Vallarta. In the interior of Mexico, at elevations over 5,000 feet you can golf the wonderful traditional courses of Mexico City, Guadalajara and Morelos. In fact, there are now more than 150 golf courses in Mexico with the world's top architects (Nicklaus, Dye, Von Hagge, Weiskopf, Jones, to name a few) lining up to create new, exciting venues to meet the rising demand.
And in case you haven't noticed, Mexico is right next door. Direct flights from gateway U.S. cities will have you teeing off the same day that you board your plane, after checking into a world-class hotel manned by the friendliest, most respectful people you'll find anywhere on the planet. Or, if you prefer, you might choose an old, culturally-rich colonial inn with portola lined walkways and colorful bougainvillea climbing the walls. Take a serene evening walk on the pristine beach, party half the night downing street tacos, or settle into a three-hour meal prepared by a French-trained chef…the choice is yours. Want to take a day off from the course? Take a jungle cruise, rent a car and go visit the seaside village nearby, or take in a day of catch-and-release deep-sea fishing.
You see, a golf trip to Mexico is more than just golf. It is a culturally rewarding, educationally enriching adventure that you just aren't going to get in Myrtle Beach, Orlando, or Scottsdale. And here's the best part: it doesn't have to cost any more! You will find some great deals available to destinations all over Mexico. They want your business, and they are making it very enticing to make their country your choice for a great golf vacation.
The first golf course to come to Baja California Sur's capital of La Paz is Paraiso Del Mar, part of a new, ambitious resort and residential development on 1,700 acres of sandy, unspoiled peninsula on the Sea of Cortez. Toledo-based Arthur Hills and design partner Brian Yoder oversaw construction of the course, though golfers will see clearly that very little earth was moved here, part of the golf course's attempt to be as natural as possible.
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Most golfers will agree the term "links" is thrown around a little too often, but the new Arthur Hills golf course at Paraiso Del Mar in La Paz, Mexico, is about as close to links as you're going to find this far south. Consider it links golf with shades, Bermuda shorts and an ice cold bottle of Pacifico.
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Staying at Paradise Village Beach Resort and Spa is sort of like bringing your own little city with you and placing it in the middle of a tropical paradise. Not that I would discourage you from venturing into Nuevo Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta or any of the nearby surfside villages, but everything you need is right here on this peninsula on Banderas Bay, including the spectacular El Tigre Golf Club.
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The Flamingos Golf owners, who bought the club in 2000, spent $3 million on a recent renovation - which includes a new clubhouse, golf shop, restaurant and driving range - that has brought the club back to its former glory and then some. Director of Golf Claudia Staines has made sure maintenance and course conditions are a top priority, and it shows.
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The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort is one of those places you stay at and afterwards ask yourself, "What else is there?" At this 22-acre resort, the staff members see to all your needs, whether you want them to or not. My favorite activity was free, in a manner of speaking: watching the sunset, which is stunning, even with some cloud cover.
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Designed by Robert Von Hagge, El Tigre Golf Club at Paradise Village offers ample room to drive the ball if you play the course the way the architect intended. But if you force shots into small landing areas or take unnecessary risks, your score can add up in a hurry. Add some wind, and this course can be a real tiger.
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