We have recently caught up with Keith Mitchell, the Head of Product & Marketing, at our travel partners Golfbreaks.com about his trip to South Carolina, USA here we bring you.
 
“A trip to play the famous courses in the USA must be on the wish list of practically every golfer in the world. I am no exception, so I jumped at the chance to fly over and experience the famous golfers Mecca’s of South Carolina– Myrtle Beach and Charleston.”

Having flown from the UK via Washington and with golf clubs at the ready, I started out in the vibrant golf resort of Myrtle Beach. To say this place is purpose built for golfer’s is an understatement – there is everything a golfer could wish for! 100 golf courses within an hour’s drive of any of the hotels, which include the mighty Grand Dunes Golf Club , a huge variety of restaurants and great nightlife. There are even supermarkets the size of Sainsbury’s dedicated purely to all things golf. I stayed at the Marina Inn at Grand Dunes and played the 2 courses onsite, and I can’t wait to come back again with some mates as it’s perfect for a great group golf break – and such good value for money.

Afterwards I took a drive down the coast to take in historic Charleston and to play the legendary course that is Kiawah Island Playing the Ocean Course there, I can honestly say, is one of the best golfing experiences in my life. Site of the 1991 Ryder Cup Matches and is set to host the 2012 PGA Championship, this spectacular course has the most incredible views over the Atlantic – and the most enormous bunkers I’ve ever seen! Caddies are provided as standard and mine proved indispensible when negotiating the course hazards of water, bunkers, a stiff breeze – and even crocodiles (local rule is that if your shot lands within 10 yards of a croc you’re allowed a drop)! Highlights of the trip even included using the driving the range - hitting Titleist Pro V1’s into the distance in quite remarkable setting with the back drop of an iconic 18th holes, the clubhouse and nothing but the coast in front of you!

While I was there I was lucky enough to have a snoop around the incredible Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island – the most expensive hotel ever built in South Carolina – so if you’re looking for real luxury you must stay here. However, if you’re looking to play Kiawah Island but avoid the hefty price tag, look to stay in Charleston like I did where you can find quality hotels nearby the course."

So there you have it – a brilliant golf break where I got to play a once in a lifetime course.

In addition Keith has recommended a few great offers from his team at Golfbreaks.com

Myrtlewood Villas & Golf Resort	Marina Inn at Grande Dunes	The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island
from £265 5 nights' self catering 3 rounds of golf	from £439 5 nights' room only 4 rounds of golf	from £689 7 nights' room only 5 rounds of golf