Best of golf and travel in Thailand in pictures

Thailand is southeast Asia's most popular golf destination for a variety of reasons. For starters, it's a country that has a rich history in golf and has over 300 golf courses, ranging from posh new resorts to government-built local clubs. Around 2 million Thais play golf themselves, so they know how to handle the game.

Golf courses in Thailand are kept in high condition and the service level is exceptional, starting in the clubhouses, many of which are massive and gorgeous, with full locker and dining room facilities. For Westerners, the golf courses will be considerably less expensive than those back home, and mandatory caddies are a nice touch at usually just $15-20 per round after gratuity.

Off the golf course, Thailand is known internationally for its cuisine. It's tough to find a bad meal in Thailand, whether its on the street or in a fine restaurant. Here's a look at some of the best of golf in Thailand's Pattaya, Bangkok and Hua Hin courses, from a recent trip by Brandon Tucker.

Best of golf and travel in Thailand in pictures - Walking Street in Pattaya

The famous Walking Street in Pattaya, Thailand.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Siam Country Club Old Course - Thailand

The Siam Country Club offers premiere golf facilities in a tropical setting.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Siam Country Club Plantation Course - caddies and carts

You can hire a cart and caddy at the Siam Country Club's Plantation Course for very reasonable rates.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Siam Country Club Plantation Course

The Siam Country Club's Plantation Course features an interesting array of bunkers.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Siam Country Club - caddies

Caddies at the Siam Country Club are often women.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Muang Kaew Golf Club - caddie

At the Muang Kaew Golf Club, you can get a mid-round massage right on the golf course.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Thai Country Club in Bangkok

Thai Country Club in Bangkok has postcard-perfect vista throughout.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Tom and caddie

It doesn't get much better than golf in the Land of Smiles.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Banyan Country Club in Hua Hin

The layout at the Banyan Country Club in Hua Hin recalls rice paddies in the area.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Black Mountain G.C. - clubhouse

The Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin rates highly with local golfers and international visitors alike.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com

Black Mountain G.C. - hole 16

The 16th hole at the Black Mountain Golf Club is bordered by scenic forested mountains.

Brandon Tucker/WorldGolf.com