Indian Wells Golf Resort Announces Exceptional Winter Getaways

Golf Stay-and-Plays Feature World-Class Accommodations, Play on Two Celebrated Layouts

(INDIAN WELLS, Ca.) – Indian Wells Golf Resort – the world-class public golf, vacation, culinary and events destination located in the picturesque Coachella Valley – has partnered with four neighboring hotels to offer a pair of ideal stay-and-play offers perfect for golf groups, families and those simply seeking a getaway this winter.

Guests can enjoy accommodations at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Tommy Bahama Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, or Indian Wells Resort Hotel, all situated within a comfortable walking distance of Indian Wells Golf Resort and offering superlative amenities.

Celebrating its 37th anniversary, the acclaimed resort features 36 holes of exceptional golf with its Celebrity and Players layouts. The Celebrity, designed by architect Clive Clark and colloquially referred to as “Beauty,” features aesthetically pleasing water features, colorful wildflowers and narrow corridors placing an emphasis on shot making.

The John Fought-designed Players Course, or “The Beast” as it’s known, is a longer, more open layout with demanding bunkering and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges. Like The Celebrity, no roads or homes encroach the course, and each hole is designed to provide a feeling of privacy and escape in the heart of the scenic Coachella Valley.

Rounds on both celebrated designs are included in each of the stay-and-play packages offered by Indian Wells Golf Resort and the nearby hotels and resorts. Guests can choose from a variety of options featuring two and three-night accommodations at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Tommy Bahama Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, or Indian Wells Resort Hotel.

Perfect for an extended stay or a quick weekend getaway, each partner hotel and resort offers a two-night option with a round on both the Players and Celebrity courses, as well as a three-night night stay featuring three rounds of golf at Indian Wells Golf Resort. Those interested can find more information on each individual package online here. 

“We are thrilled to welcome our guests to experience the beautiful Coachella Valley with its fabulous winter weather as our stay-and-play packages are the perfect way to experience everything our resort has to offer,” says Robin Graf, general manager of Indian Wells Golf Resort. “There is so much fun to be had here at Indian Wells from our phenomenal golf amenities to top-notch dining as well as our array of special events we have planned for the coming months.”

The VUE Grille & Bar, located in the resort’s stunning 53,000-square-foot clubhouse, boasts award-winning cuisine and an extensive selection of wine and spirits complemented by gorgeous views of the property and top-of-the-line customer care. Now featuring a new menu for the winter season, The VUE is the preeminent location in the region to dine while also enjoying watching major sporting events on its many high-definition televisions. 

Indian Wells Golf Resort is also the ideal destination for weddings, meetings and other group outings, highlighted by the in-demand pavilion accommodating up to 700 guests and event lawn spaces accommodating a combined 1,300. The resort’s Celebrity Ballroom is another premier event space, with a beautiful outdoor patio and a total capacity of 250 guests.

For more information about Indian Wells Golf Resort stay-and-play packages call 760.346.4653 or visit https://indianwellsgolfresort.com/stay_and_play/. 

Puerto Rico Beckons as Winter Arrives in North America, Freezes Tee Times

Spur of the moment escapes available with increased flights, no passport required for U.S. citizen entry

(SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO) – Peak season has arrived in Puerto Rico just as temperatures have plummeted throughout much of North America forcing many golfers to put their clubs in hibernation.

Passenger arrivals are up at airports throughout the Island, as is play at virtually all 18 courses in the biodiverse tropical paradise – a bilingual American territory where no passport is required for U.S. citizens.

Thanks to the tropical island’s 18 courses and plethora of resorts, there are golf stay-and-play packages available to suit an array of preferences throughout the balmy island, all with after-play things nearby to enjoy.

On the south coast, Costa Caribe Golf & Country Club is home to 27 holes adjacent to the ocean on one side, mountains on the other. The club’s exciting signature island green par-3 is indicative of what awaits players. Stay next door in the Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort, where breakfast buffets, rum welcome drinks, and other items are offered.

Near San Juan in the north and are several golf courses and resorts including El Conquistador, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar, St. Regis Bahia Beach, Rio Bayamon, and Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. On the east coast lies Wyndham Grand Palmas Resort and its two courses designed by Rees Jones and Gary Player.

In western Puerto Rico lies Royal Isabela, a boutique luxe resort with casitas, private plunge pools overlooking the ocean, and a golf course sitting atop 150-foot-high cliffs. Just down the road is Punta Borinquen, a municipal style golf club with a glorious “old bones” routing dating back to 1940, with ocean views from every hole.

If playing where the pros play is desired on trip itineraries, stay at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve in Rio Mar and play the Championship Course there – it hosts the PGA TOUR’s Puerto Rico Open annually (March 4-10, 2024), and recently hosted a USGA and Latin America Amateur Championship.  

More than one-third of Puerto Rico’s courses are recognized among the top courses in the Caribbean, Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Atlantic Islands (source: “Golfweek’s Best 50 Courses”). Many are designed by acclaimed golf course architects (Tom and George Fazio, Tom Kite, Greg Norman, Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Sr.).

Complementing Puerto Rico’s golf destination are its history, food, culture, beaches, casinos, vibrant arts scene, rainforest, bioluminescent bays, and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere.

For more information about the Island, its attractions, and travel guidelines, visit: DiscoverPuertoRico.com 

Explore Branson (MO) Golf Destination Courses Honored in ‘Golfweek’s Best U.S. Short Courses’ List

(BRANSON, MISSOURI) – “Short Courses” have been springing up around the globe and the trend is so prevalent that Golfweek recently unveiled its first list dedicated to the niche – “Top 40 Par-3, Short and Non-Traditional U.S. Golf Courses in the U.S.”

Fortunately for Explore Branson Golf visitors, the destination has two courses that garnered top rankings in the list, including two in the top 20 and one in the top 10.

No. 8 – Top of the Rock, the 9-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, is the first-ever par-3 course to be included in a professional championship (PGA TOUR Champions Bass Pro Shops Legends of Golf.)

No. 19 – Mountain Top, the 13-hole, walking only course designed by Gary Player, it showcases stunning Ozark views amid diverse, dramatic holes that wind around 300-million-year-old limestone formations.

Both courses are amenities of Big Cedar Lodge, which also has three 18-hole courses, all ranked among the best in the state and country and all are Audubon International certified for their best enviro and sustainability practices.

There are 10 courses in the destination, including two non-Big Cedar courses that are also ranked best-in-the state (Branson Hills and LedgeStone). All are located near one another as well as hundreds of restaurants, lodging options, and after-golf attractions (Silver Dollar City theme park, museums, live entertainment theaters, three lakes, zip lines, marinas, family venues).

An 11th course in the destination is under construction. It is an 18-hole, par-3 design called Cliffhangers that is located adjacent to Payne’s Valley, the championship layout authored by Tiger Woods and his TGR Design partners.

Wrote Golfweek about its inaugural “Short Course List”: “We included par-3 courses as well as short courses that might have a few par 4s and even par 5s. Some are crazy, over-the-top fun meant to be played barefoot with a cold drink in hand. Others are more traditional in their design. They might be at an elite private club, or they might be a muni down the street. There might be 18 holes, or there might be only six — who cares when you’re having a blast?”

For more information about Branson and its golf destination, visit www.explorebranson.com/golf, Instagram (@ExploreBransonGolf) or Facebook (@BransonGolf).

Zero Friction Announces Return to The PGA Show

Visit Booth 2063 to see all the Zero Friction favorites -- golf bags, high-performance golf gloves, cutting edge golf balls and innovative tees

(OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL) – Zero Friction, LLC, proudly announces its return to The PGA Show in Orlando, FL. Renowned for its high-quality, technologically advanced products, Zero Friction will showcase its golf lineup at booth number 2063 during the annual show held at the Orange County Convention Center from January 24 to 26, 2024.

"As a brand deeply rooted in innovation and performance, we are thrilled to announce our return to the PGA Show in Orlando. This event has consistently served as a cornerstone for us to connect with the golf community, exhibit our latest advancements, and reinforce our commitment to providing golfers with unparalleled products that elevate their game," said John Iacono, founder and President of Zero Friction. "We eagerly anticipate reuniting with industry professionals and enthusiasts, sharing our fervor for revolutionizing the golfing experience through cutting-edge technology and design."

Continuing its tradition, the booth will feature a range of Zero Friction favorites, from electric golf bags to high-performance golf gloves, cutting-edge golf balls, and innovative tees, promising to elevate your game to new heights.

Of noteworthy mention, the company is gearing up to unveil an exciting expansion to its acclaimed STRIDE Golf Bag, the first-of-its-kind autonomous electric golf bag. Following the resounding success of last year's debut, praised widely for its groundbreaking design and functionality, Zero Friction is delighted to introduce a vibrant array of new colors. Initially available solely in gray and black, the STRIDE Golf Bag will now be offered in Chestnut, navy blue, lavender, and Carolina blue, catering to diverse tastes and preferences within the golfing community.

Scott Kramer of Forbes magazine hailed the STRIDE Golf Bag as a game-changer, highlighting its elimination of the need for pushcarts while promoting increased physical activity. "What I like best about it: you never have to run another pushcart or lug around a separate one. Plus, of course, it’ll help your body by forcing you to get more steps in," remarked Kramer, underscoring the bag's multifaceted appeal.

With its fusion of convenience, functionality, and health-conscious design, the Stride Golf Bag stands poised to redefine the golfing experience, aligning seamlessly with Zero Friction's unwavering dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction.

For more information on Zero Friction, see the 2023 Zero Friction catalog, visit www.zerofriction.com, or call 630-317-7700.

Horseshoe Bay Resort Announces Its Hills & Thrills Package

(HORSESHOE BAY, TX) – Horseshoe Bay Resort, Central Texas’ premier AAA-Four Diamond and Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Award-winning destination, is proud to offer the Hills and Thrills guest package to showcase the Ford Bronco Off-Roadeo experience at the resort’s Grey Wolf Ranch complex. Dubbed “off-roading at its finest,” this unique outdoor experience is the ultimate program designed show off the legendary capability, iconic heritage, and thrilling outdoor lifestyle that the Ford Bronco brand has to offer.

The experience is only available at four destinations across the U.S. – including Horseshoe Bay Resort, a distinctive lakefront resort property that is part of Crescent Hotels & Resorts’ distinguished Latitudes lifestyle hotels and resorts division. Each destination showcases incredible views, challenging terrain, curated trail drives, all-new Bronco SUVs to drive, scenic photo-ops, and an expert team of world-class Trail Guides to lead the way on this purpose-built off-road course. The Texas Hill Country terrain is the ideal road course to develop a driver’s confidence and expand their driving techniques. During each session, drivers utilize the Bronco’s Trail 1-Pedal Drive, 4x4 operation, and Terrain Management SystemTM (TMS).

“It is our great privilege to make the thrills of the Bronco Off-Roadeo experience and the rugged beauty of Grey Wolf Ranch available to our resort guests,” said Horseshoe Bay Resort's Managing Director Randy Zupanski. “We encourage guests to take this exceptional opportunity to add a new brand of adventure to your next stay at Horseshoe Bay Resort. Texas is rugged, adventurous, and steeped in American legend. With an endless supply of rocks to climb, hills to jump, and waterways to slog through, there’s no better way to experience the unparalleled Texas outdoors than from behind the wheel of another American legend – the robust and unequaled Ford Bronco.”

Guests staying on the Hills & Thrills package can enjoy a delectable breakfast at J’s restaurant before heading out for a specially designed four-hour off-road adventure. This package is built for at least two people to enjoy and includes guest room accommodations; a four-hour off-road experience with the Ford Bronco; shuttle service to and from the ranch where the off-road course is located; and breakfast each morning you’re on the package. Drivers must be at least 18 years old, and passengers 13 years or older. The basic package is for two-to-four adults, with a maximum of four occupants per vehicle.

It's the perfect way to enhance a golf or watersports vacation to the legendary Horseshoe Bay Resort.

To book or learn more about the Hills & Thrills Package, visit  https://www.hsbresort.com/offers/hills-thrills-package/ or call 855-441-1524.

Edison Golf Announces Black Friday Sale 

(ROCKPORT, TX) — Edison Golf, a company dedicated to revolutionizing wedge performance for recreational golfers, announces site-wide Black Friday savings starting Nov. 22 through midnight Nov. 27.

The savings are as follows:

- $25 off single wedges

- $75 off sets of three

- $100 off sets of four

“Since its inception, Edison Golf has been challenging historic -- and very inefficient designs in the wedge category,” said Terry Koehler, Edison founder and Director of Innovation. “Very simply, the EDISON 2.0 wedges were designed specifically to make your ‘not-so-good’ shots turn out more like your best, and to be the highest performing wedges in golf. This sale gives golfers the opportunity to experience “The Edison Difference” at our lowest price ever.”

The EDISON 2.0 wedges represent a quantum leap in wedge design because they are the only wedges on the market specifically designed around a 30-year study of the way recreational golfers hit their wedges, as opposed to being designed for the preferences of elite tour professionals. They have the most efficient distribution of clubhead mass in the category to deliver improved distance consistency, more forgiveness and enhanced spin.

Introduced in 2020, the original Edison Forged wedges significantly improved wedge performance by dramatically changing the way mass was distributed across the back of the clubhead. The EDISON 2.0 line of wedges positioned an additional 14-17 grams even higher in the clubhead, achieved by the creation of a multi-level back design that optimizes smash factor across the face. This repositioning also creates a fresh and distinctive visual appeal to the product. 

In addition to enhanced weighting technologies, the EDISON 2.0 wedges feature an improved version of the renowned and proven “Koehler Sole”. Patented by Koehler over 30 years ago, this unique sole design is the most versatile sole in the category, as it combines both a high and low bounce into each wedge to handle different lies and different swing paths.

The technologies found only in the EDISON 2.0 wedges further separate and distance Koehler’s work from all other wedge brands.

“We often get asked, "Why do the EDISON 2.0 wedges look so much different than the wedges I've always played?". Well, the answer is simple,” continued Koehler. “Throughout the modern history of golf clubs, every major performance breakthrough required us to get used to a different look.

“The Ping Anser didn't look anything like the classic blade putters of the day . . . metalwoods were certainly a far cry from persimmon drivers . . . cavity back irons compared to blades . . . Big Bertha® and the ensuing ever larger drivers . . . hybrids . . . and the big 'spaceship' putters that now dominate the category. None of them looked like what came before . . . but all of them worked better!

“Though we preserved a clean classic look at address, like all those other technological breakthroughs, the EDISON 2.0 wedges look different because they were designed for the way you hit your wedges, NOT the way tour players hit theirs. Thousands of golfers have already discovered they will make a huge difference in your scoring range performance.”

All EDISON 2.0 wedges are backed by the Company’s 100% Risk Free Trial. The Edison craftsmen will custom build you any EDISON 2.0 wedge at no extra charge. You can put it to the test on your course, hitting the variety of shots you face every round. If for any reason it's not the best wedge you've ever played, Edison Golf will buy it back.

EDISON 2.0 wedges are engineered in odd-number lofts from 45 to 59 degrees and are custom built for each golfer from a wide selection of premium KBS shafts and Lamkin grips. Requests for even number lofts are met by tweaking the lower number clubhead. Standard pricing is $199.95 for steel shaft wedges and $214.95 for graphite shafts. Shipping is always free, and discounts are applied on orders for full sets of three or more. The shopping experience is clean and easy on the company’s website at www.EdisonWedges.com.

Edison’s site-wide Black Friday pricing presents the golfer with savings of $25 on any single wedge and up to $100 off a full set. Discounts are automatically calculated at checkout.

Barbados Draws Increased Visitation from U.S.; Airlines Add Daily Flights

Budding luxe resort residential community Apes Hill mirrors positive trends, unveils new restaurant

(St. James, Barbados) – Commercial airlines United, American, and JetBlue have increased flights to Barbados this year and the added air travel options will continue through winter 2024, supporting the tropical island’s growing momentum and demand from guests that has touched virtually all niches, not the least of which are luxury venues.

Case in point is Apes Hill Barbados, the Caribbean’s first-class new resort residential community that is burgeoning in tandem with the thriving island.

Like the daily direct flights that have been added to Barbados to embrace demand – including from Boston, Charlotte, Miami, Washington, D.C., and elsewhere – Apes Hill has been unveiling new, 5-star components one after another this year, ranging from new real estate options to club and resort amenities. 

Gastronomic excellence abounds at Apes Hill. To further refine residents’ and guests’ culinary journey, the brand-new Noisy Cricket restaurant debuted Nov. 16, 2023. Its menu offers the option of shared plates to foster a sense of community, all while savoring the finest seafood and meats, thoughtfully paired with the island's lush produce. Mediterranean coastal charm meets the warm, Caribbean spirit at Noisy Cricket, where each dish is a celebration of seasonal freshness and sustainability, and astonishing views await from the elevated perch.

“We’re taking great care to build amenities and services that complement our community and align with the island’s abundant natural environment,” said Sunil Chatrani, Executive Chairman, Apes Hill Barbados. “This is a place where people embrace the important things in life: family, friendships, health, wellbeing and connection to nature.”

Like Bajans, known for their openness, thoughtfulness, and generosity, Apes Hill Barbados is rooted in a rejuvenating, welcoming atmosphere. Highlights of the luxury resort-real estate community include the following.

Extraordinary Residences: Discerning buyers can choose from a range of exquisite residences, including elegant villas and spacious homes, each meticulously designed and crafted to the highest standards of luxury living.

World-Class Amenities: Residents and guests will enjoy several kilometers of enchanting nature trails, flood-lit Padel courts, TigerTurf tennis courts, gym, sleek clubhouse, sumptuous dining, 18-hole championship golf course, complementary par-3 short course, and bespoke outdoor and well-being activities as well as a dedicated concierge service.

Unspoiled Natural Beauty: The community is enveloped by the breathtaking beauty of Barbados, with abundant tropical gardens, nature trails, and astounding views at every turn, offering residents a serene and tranquil environment.

Convenience and Accessibility: Located just a short drive from vibrant Holetown and historic Speightstown and Bridgetown, Apes Hill Barbados provides easy access to fine dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, ensuring residents have everything they need at their doorstep.

Sustainable Design: Apes Hill Barbados is committed to sustainable and environmentally responsible development practices, incorporating energy-efficient technologies, and preserving the natural ecosystem of the area. Its 18-hole golf course has earned certification from Audubon International for meeting or exceeding the mandated criteria and best practice requirements.

“Everything created here is synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and a commitment to the highest standards of living,” said Executive Chairman Chatrani. “This community is a testament to our dedication to creating exceptional, sustainable environments that elevate the quality of life."

Confirming Mr. Chatrani’s sentiments, Golf Inc. Magazine bestowed a “2023 Development of the Year” award upon it. The best-in-kind distinction “recognizes the finest private clubs and resort courses with the best new traditional and non-traditional golf courses (including short courses) that opened during the past year around the globe.”

Properties honored through the international competition were judged according to how well the vision of the project was executed, the course aesthetics, economic and environmental sustainability, course routing and land usage.

Apes Hill Barbados also shined at the 2023 World Golf Awards in Abu Dhabi, winning four categories, including ‘Best Golf Real Estate Venue’, ‘Best Eco-Friendly Golf Facility’, and Best New Golf Course in both Barbados and the Caribbean.

The third-party critical endorsements confirm precisely what Apes Hill Barbados set out to accomplish – inspired vision and successful execution, commitment to the environment and sustainability, and remarkable courses designed by legendary golf architect Ron Kirby.

Apes Hill Barbados is owned by Apes Hill (Barbados) Inc., a Barbadian company whose primary shareholder is Glenn J. Chamandy, a Canadian investor, founder, and CEO of leading clothing brand Gildan Activewear. Mr. Chamandy’s foresight has enabled the ambitious project to redefine golfing and estate living on the island.

The 475-acre property draws its inspiration and essence from Barbados, famed for its history, beauty, designer shops and world-class restaurants. It boasts some of the best golf courses in the Caribbean, with Apes Hill rating No. 5 in the Caribbean, Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Atlantic Islands (Source: Golfweek’s “Best You Can Play”).

Apes Hill Barbados has a uniquely tranquil atmosphere that provides the perfect setting for inspired living at a pace of ease. Home to a developing range of accommodation options, the elegant venue is home to a portfolio of stunning real estate on site alongside golf vacation properties set to allow guests to stay and play late this year or early next. There are several exquisitely designed residential options that offer something for everyone’s taste – from charming villas to brilliantly designed detached homes.

For more information about this unique development, visit www.apeshillbarbados.com or contact the Apes Hill Barbados sales team at +1 246 538-0591 or info@apeshillbarbados.com.