Golf Course And Tourism

There are literally hundreds and hundreds of golf courses all around the world. With the popularity of the game rising, you can find golf courses in even the smallest of towns - or, at the very least within a short driving distance. Have you ever wondered what golf courses are ranked as the top golf courses in the world? Here's a short list in no particular order:

* Augusta National; Augusta, Georgia - Home to the Masters Tournament, Augusta is one of the most beautiful and popular golf courses to play. It was planned and designed by golf legend Bobby Jones and architect Alister Mackenzie. It is a very exclusive golf club and open only to members and their guests.

* Pebble Beach; Pebble Beach, California - This has been a perennial favorite golf course among pros and amateurs alike. It hosts an annual celebrity pro-am tournament that brings all sorts of celebrities to play with pro golfers. It is a public course, but be warned, it isn't cheap to play here!

* Shinnecock Hills; Southampton, New York - This is an old golf club with old traditions and is probably one of the oldest US golf course design dating back to'91. It is a members only club as well.

* Pinehurst Resort; Pinehurst , North Carolina : Being hosts to two US Opens, this too is an old golf course with rich old traditions. Naturally it is also a favorite course for golfers from every place to play here. It is a public golf course.

* Prairie Dunes; Hutchison, Kansas - Set in the Midwest, this golf course has proven to be quite a challenging' holes with numerous sand traps and wind playing a factor in the game. It is, however, a rather exclusive club, so you'll have to work extra hard to get on the link at Prairie Dunes.

* St. Andrews; St. Andrews, Scotland - This is where golf started and the tradition in rich on this beautiful golf course in this amazing country. There are six golf courses associated with the St. Andrews Links Organization including "The Old One" where golf was born.

*Royal County Down: Located in Newcastle in Northern Ireland, this is one of the longest existing golf courses in the country. Moreover, it is ideal for those looking to experience both a challenging round of play while being treated to exhilarating natural scenery. However, you need to be ready for an exercise as you'd have to walk all the way through the course as they oddly inhibit buggies in this course.

*Murfield: This golf course in Gullane, Scotland is ideal for all golf skill levels. This has also been the site of various golf tournaments and championships spanning for several years.

You certainly have your choice of golf courses all around the world. But don't forget to look right in your own neighborhood. Some local golf courses can meet may of your expectations.