Widely considered the best layout in Pattaya, Laem Chabang is made up of 27 holes on 700 acres and incorporates three diverse nine incorporating the property’s mix of mountains, lakes and river valleys. Each type of terrain corresponds to the aptly named Mountain, Lake and Valley nines. The rolling hills of the surrounding countryside have been used to significant effect and hazards are in abundance. Not only does the course have a lot of bunkers and water hazards, there are also a lot of natural hazards in the shape of exposed rock formations, lakes, ponds, and creeks. Cleverly shaped holes skirt water hazards and tall coconut trees. The large, undulating greens are mostly elevated and protected by deep bunkers.

The Mountain course is 3,446 yards in length and plays around many hills. The 2nd hole, a wonderfully water-fronted downhill par-3, is about as good as short holes get.  The Lake course is 3,419 yards in length with a stream meandering through most all the holes. The Valley Course plays the longest at 3,619 yards in the foothills of the surrounding mountains. Although the presence of water is not overwhelming (apart perhaps from on the opening four holes of the more technical Valley course), when it does occur, it does so with full force and knee-trembling impact.

These distinct playing conditions offer the golfer a challenging course in a variety of terrains. Beautifully maintained and presented, this is a golf course that effortlessly combines the human-made features and rich planting of flowers and shrubs with the natural splendour of the surrounding hills, rocky outcrops, and jungle vegetation. With many scenic views from the course, it all fuses harmoniously into a tremendous golfing experience and one that is uniquely Asian.

Located around 1h 15m from Bangkok, Laem Chabang should also be a consideration for golfers coming from the Thai capital or Bangkok International Airport.

laemchabanggolf.com

The post Travel Guide 2020: Laem Chabang International Country Club appeared first on Golf Digest Middle East.

Designed by Golfplan – Dale & Ramsey Golf Course Architects, Chee Chan is one Asia’s modern marvels.

The land and the surrounding environment are gently rolling hills and in contrast to other Pattaya golf courses, provide more of ‘Scottish Highlands’ playing experience.

The par 72 course is a challenging 7,345 yards from the championship tees and a more leisurely 6,527 yards from the front tees. Fairways and tee boxes planted with Zoysia grass are a welcome change from other area courses. Greens constructed from Tifeagle Bermuda grass putt well. The course has been designed to suit better golfers as the layout provides sweeping movement on the fairways and greens and features intricate bunker facing native landscapes and wetlands. These latter areas are a highlight of the course. Long uphill par-4’s provide challenge often not seen at public golf facilities.

The clubhouse is modern and functional without being overbearing. Full practice facilities include driving range, putting area, and chipping green. Golf carts drive on the path at all times. Chee Chan has an international feel to it with 5-star service levels rivalling the best in Asia. Given time the Pattaya golf course will gain an iconic perspective with its sweeping views of Khao Chee Chan, temples, lakes and mountains.

cheechangolf.com

The post Travel Guide 2020: Chee Chan Golf Resort appeared first on Golf Digest Middle East.

Closed in 2006-2007 for a complete renovation, American architects Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley have kept the original routing, for the most part, while modernising all aspects of the course. Upgrades to the original out-and-back parallel holes included curved fairways, new water hazards, high lipped bunkers and relocated greens. New greenside bunker complexes add to Siam’s legendary, undulating putting surfaces.

Since reopening in 2007, the golf course has hosted several international golf tournaments including being the home of the LPGA Tour’s Honda Classic since 2010.  In 2018, Siam CC Old Course was recognised for its excellence when it was voted 73rd best golf course in the world by Golf Digest magazine.

The 7,162 yard, par-72 layout is set in the low hills just a few kilometres from Pattaya and contains more than its fair share of mature trees, shrubs and plants. A large golden Buddha is watching over the course and can be seen clearest from the all uphill 9th hole. The Siam Old Course boasts many dramatic challenges, particularly the last four holes which are Siam’s answer to Amen Corner, arguably the best finishing holes of any Pattaya golf course. If you’re having a good day and scoring well, take care as this closing stretch which can easily bring you back to earth.

The clubhouse is still the original structure dated from the 1970’s with major interior facelifts brightening up the facilities. Permanently mounted binoculars in the clubhouse help bring the distant farms and other golf courses in the area into close view.

siamcountryclub.com

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