This Week at TravelGolf.com: May 29, 2008

Be a patriot, Americans: Spend your stimulus check on a golf vacation

Did anyone else receive their U.S. Government Economic Stimulus check this week?

I got mine Wednesday. My body swelled with financial empowerment as I rushed to the bank to cash it.

And as one would assume with any American who just came upon some easy cash, the rest of the day was a total blur. I woke up this morning and discovered around my bed six bags full of crap from Radio Shack. In the heat of the moment I think I may got a pedicure as well. My toe nails are mysteriously purple.

Single guys like me will get checks from Uncle Sam for up to $600. But if you had the foresight - and fertility - to breed your own little tax credits, you will cash in with and extra $300 per offspring.

And remember, you aren't legally obligated to buy your little ones a Nintendo Wii or iPhone. Use this cash as an excuse to upgrade your next golf trip.

A lot of golf courses and packagers could probably use their own little boost to the tee sheet this year. Surging gas prices, coupled with airlines that seem to have a personal vendetta against the luggage-intensive golf traveler makes it easy to put your trip on the back burner.

But thanks to these checks, we have a reason to get back online and start planning that long golf weekend.

LasVegasGolf.com has a weekend V.I.P. package that offers two rounds on some of the most prestigious golf courses in Las Vegas and three nights at Mandalay Bay for just $720.

In Myrtle Beach, you can golf all week for that kind of cash, especially as peak season dies down at the end of May and even the top golf courses are steals.

You could also of course upgrade your golf bag or splurge on a couple caddie chicks. If you're planning a trip to play golf in Europe, consider buying one of those G.P.S. navigation systems. I was just over there for two weeks and got lost on those wacky roads every day.

Whatever you do, just don't sit on this gift from the 'gov.' That is not the American thing to do.

As always, TravelGolf.com welcomes your comments.

Nefyn & District Golf Club: The place for golf 'firsts' in northern Wales

When researching your Wales golf trip, among the first images you'll undoubtedly come across is Nefyn & District Golf Club's "The Point," a stunning series of holes set on the Caernarfon Bay. But could the course possibly be as good as the photo? Rest assured, Nefyn is better. Filled with a grocery list of unique features, Nefyn ∓a District is also a budget play that should be at the center of any north Wales golf vacation.

Podcast: New-look ScotlandGolf.com a gem for travelers

Column: Fishing for a deep sea water wimp? Only on a golf vacation

While in British Columbia on assignment, TravelGolf.com Senior Writer Chris Baldwin got away from the course and headed for legendary Painter's Lodge on Vancouver Island to do a little salmon fishing. He should've stuck to the golf course.

Also: Canadian golf vacation options

Review: "Ultimate protection" from Bag Boy's Clip-Lok stand bag falls short

I've been testing the Clip-Lok golf bag and now have my own press release: The company has STILL not invented a bag that keeps your clubs from banging together, Tim McDonald writes. Still, it was one of the more comfortable stand bags I've walked with and, retailing in the $140 range, it's a good buy.

Review: Ogio Mammoth golf travel bag