This Week at TravelGolf.com: Feb. 24, 2004

For baseball fans, last weekend signaled the end of the Hot Stove season and the much-anticipated start of spring training. After months of A-Rod and steroids, pitchers and catchers have finally reported to camp. Even if you're as down on Major League Baseball as I am this year, the start of spring training is always good news.

If you're planning a trip to Arizona or Florida to catch a few Cactus (or Grapefruit) League games, consider yourself warned. Spring training isn't what it used to be. The crowds are larger, the ticket prices are higher, and access to players is more limited. But it's still worth a trip, especially if you bring your clubs along. Before you go, be sure to look for Brendan McEvoy's spring training overview later this week, complete with a look at the best places to play golf near the ballparks, plus some suggestions about where to stay.

Speaking of Larsen, her editorial on women and the PGA Tour is now running at TravelGolf.com, and it's sure to spark some interesting discussion. Also, we're still on the hunt for several top Travel Marshals to write for Netcaddie.com. If you think you're Travel Marshal material, fill out our online application before checking out our usual full roster of reviews and travel features this week. As always, your comments are welcome on any topic. Have a great week.

Bring on the best of the Caribbean

As we wade through a cold winter, thoughts of sunny places fill our heads, not to mention green fairways and ocean views from the tee box. The Caribbean has plenty of classic courses that make looking back at 2003 special. You can't miss with the island golf found in Puerto Rico (Cayo Largo), the Dominican Republic (Guavaberry), and Jamaica (Half Moon Resort).

Full story | Caribbean golf courses

Are you ready for LeAnna Wicks?

The first thing one notices about Wicks is that she's not afraid to back-up her stylish golf game with stylish apparel such as fuchsia golf tanks, visors, hot pink lipstick and studded belts. She doesn't apologize for her looks or her allure, and that has some comparing her to Jan Stephenson.

Full story | Personality profiles

Sport Utility Golf bag offers options

The new Sport Utility Golf bags (SUGs) are a hybrid stand bag and cart bag for those who alternate between walking the course and riding in a cart - or at least want the option to choose between a pedestrian and motorized round. As senior writer Patrick Jones reports, the benefits of this lightweight bag are starting to catch on.

Full story | More product reviews