Life Is Like That

Faro, on the Portuguese Algarve, has long been a favourite destination for golfers. The excellent climate and numerous well-designed courses, facilities which are second to none, 5-star hotels and easy access to Faro airport from most UK regions all lead to a relaxing golfing break.

There are many courses in and around Faro, and such easy accessibility (the city is only 15 minutes from the airport) makes this destination an ideal opportunity for a weekend of golfing. Why risk playing in the rain on a Saturday in the UK when in a matter of hours you could be on a green in Portugal?

The low-cost airlines’ good-value flights – such as from Jet2, which has flights from many UK airports to Faro – leave you able to splash out on your accommodation or meals while away, and the excellent beaches and local attractions mean that your non-golfing companions will also be guaranteed a great time.

There are over 30 golf courses to choose from on the Algarve with seven within immediate reach of the city centre – you are even able to hire golf clubs at Faro airport to avoid having to take your own clubs on the plane. The courses are well-tended, well-designed, and suitable for golfers of all levels of experience.

One of the most exclusive clubs is Monte Rei Golf and Country Club. Designed by Jack Niklaus, there are two courses, incorporating fantastic lakes and spectacular views. The course boasts a newly opened restaurant, Vistas, headed by executive chef Jaime Perez, of ex El Bulli experience.

Monte Rei gorgeous golf course!

Boavista Golf is designed by Howard Swan and receives good ratings from golfers who have played there. With sub-tropical landscaping, it’s a pleasant place to spend your golfing hours, with a well-kept clubhouse and a backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and panoramic views.

The Oceânico O’Connor Golf Course incorporates streams and lakes which are now considered a wildlife sanctuary. An 18-hole par 72 course and an immaculately kept green make this a popular course. The staff are welcoming, the facilities are excellent, and the view from the clubhouse over the Algarve is exceptional. Many golfers return again and again here.

Quinta Do Lago South is reputed to be one of the best places to play golf in the Algarve. It has hosted the Algarve Open several times and facilities include restaurants and bars as well as the usual golfing driving range and chipping green.

Sometimes I wonder why we have to go through all the inconveniences of carrying, checking and claiming our luggage in the airport. If you fly with low cost airlines, most probably you have to pay for your checked luggage. Take for example, AirAsia will charge Ringgit Malaysia 25 for a 15 kilograms baggage for every [...]

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