This Week at TravelGolf.com: Aug. 21, 2008

With Labor Day on tap, Florida, Las Vegas golf courses supporting the troops

Almost everyone can agree that we don't thank the brave men and women serving their country around the world nearly enough. Let's face it, most Americans spend more thought on what they're going to give their mailman for Christmas than they do recognizing the real sacrifices taking place in a combat zone.

PGA National Resort & Spa is breaking from that mode - and doing something for America's military. This plush golf resort in Florida with five golf courses, including the PGA Tour stop Champion Course, is offering all active-duty military personnel a free night on Labor Day, Sept. 1, and a free round of golf. Soldiers need only call 1-877- PGA-NATL and ask for the "Thanks Fore Our Troops" package.

Las Vegas is showing its heart on Labor Day too, with Royal Links Golf Club giving $50 off to anyone who shows a military ID and mentions LasVegasGolf.com's military appreciation offer and TPC Las Vegas providing $25 military discounts. Those are two of the top golf courses in Las Vegas.

Sometimes you just need to recognize the good in golf, to salute places that cut through the usual corporate bureaucracy and B.S. to actually do something for the troops. These are cases where the love for America's military isn't just talk.

For years, I've brought up the idea that Memorial Day should equal free golf for vets everywhere. A smattering of golf courses do that, but most do the same thing that too many of us do every day: nothing.

Now, for Labor Day, here's a resort that's only giving out free golf but a free night's stay. It's a start.

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Vancouver Island golf complemented by world-class salmon fishing outings

Vancouver Island has some of the best salmon fishing in the world along the Campbell River. And that's just one of the spots on this island where you can do big-time fishing. It's possible to stay in downtown Victoria and take a half-day fishing trip no problem, while still having plenty of time for golf. Vancouver Island's golf tourism center calls these golf/fishing trips Fins & Skins. You'll just call them fun.

Course review: Spotlight on Vancouver Island's Golf Trail

Calm those nerves: Even for the pros, first-tee jitters can be intimidating

If Annika Sorenstam can summon up a little respect for the first tee, is it little wonder that we mere mortals struggle with it? Even the most confident of women can get all tied up in knots when they find themselves on the first tee. Here are a few tips on dealing with the pressure.

Also: What if women made the rules of golf?

Rio Secco: Tiger's course record 64 is probably safe at this Las Vegas gem

It doesn't take more than a couple holes to realize Tiger Woods' course record 64 at Rio Secco Golf Club is probably safe. This Las Vegas gem is one bruiser of a golf course.

Also: Need help planning your Las Vegas golf vacation?