n TRAVEL Dominican Republic

o you’re standing on the first wearing your waterproofs, umbrella in hand as you try to keep your glove and grip dry from the torrential mid-afternoon s downpour. It’s a feeling we are all well- accustomed to during our monthly winter medals, but following two summers of short-changed sunshine and dreary August overcasts, the post-round chat has quickly turned to year-round golfing escapes at a cost that can stand the crunch of a global recession. As always, the Algarve and Spain are the most talked- about destinations. But with the euro so strong against the pound – and with everyone fishing around for the best deals – these are proving pricey options for a last- minute getaway. On top of the , there’s your food and travel, and any such trip would not be the same without a couple of nights based on a cheeky tipple or two. For those looking for something new, the Dominican Republic is a venue that has been turning heads recently. Admittedly it’s a bit far for a long weekend, but if you are looking for a week to escape the Great British gloom in favour of sandy white beaches, the IAGTO winner for Latin America and the Caribbean is a fine place to choose. Punta Cana is a popular choice of venue for some fantastic deals and courses, and many top golf-course architects are making a beeline for this easternmost coastline strip. Indeed, designs by Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye are a common feature, with new courses on the menu from , Nick Price and Tom Fazio. Rumours circulating that Tom Weiskopf and could soon be approached reveal the nature of the golf industry’s boom in this part of the world. All-round play Setting Without wanting to state the obvious, the one thing you are guaranteed to find in the Dominican Republic – as well as a warm and friendly welcome – is the sun. Of course it rains, but you’ll mainly be hit with showers in the the evening. Average winter temperatures from October to May are around 30 degrees. I was there from mid- September to October and, if you don’t mind dodging a few hurricanes, this is a great time to come and play. It’s trend quiet and you will find the courses relatively sparse. High James Mason heads off to the Dominican Republic, the season runs from January to May, and if your negotiating skills are good enough, you could bag yourself a few IAGTO award winner for Latin America and the Caribbean bargain rounds on some great tracks. First you will need to find the best booking. It’s Cap Cana resort’s magnificent Punta Espada course recommended you stay at one of the big resorts, which

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Relaxation by the sea

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