Golf vacations in Europe

If you are keen on a golf vacation, then Europe has a good few destinations for these. Consider the likes of Spain, Portugal or the UK for a golf trip.

Indeed, the Iberian Peninsula is recommended. Here, Portugal and Lisboa provide a good vacation for golf. In fact, Lisboa has been regarded as the best in Europe for golf vacations.

Alternatively, consider the Western Algarve, and the Parque da Floresta Golf resort. Aside from a par 71 golf course, the resort also has spa and gym. In addition, the resort is well placed in the Algarve alongside beaches and villages. So, do consider some of the Floresta packages subject to availability.

The overall Mediterranean climate is better suited to golf. Likewise, its natural surroundings alongside beaches like the Cascais make Lisboa a good vacation spot.

In Spain, you cannot ignore the Costa del Sol. Or, should that be the Costa del Golf? For it is here, that some of Europe's best golf courses are. For example, the Valderamma golf course is one such.

The Marbella resort has some packages. For example, unlimited green fees on 18 & 9-hole golf courses at Marbella Club Golf a Spa resort. In addition to these golf courses you will find spa, and gourmet dining facilities.

Aside from Marbella, you may consider other Spanish courses. The PGA Catalunya is a 36-hole resort just off Barcelona. Here, it has two golf courses: the Tour and the Stadium. Overall, it has various current packages like the 2 tee and 3 PGA package. Both offer various green fees in addition with accommodation.

In Wales, the Marriott St Pierre Country Club has the championship Old Course. In addition, other facilities like Tennis, fitness club and pool are provided.

Alternatively, you might consider St Andrew's golf club. This historic course has hosted a number of championships, and there are other golf courses with modest fees. Aside from the golf, the British Golf Museum is worth a visit.

So overall, European golf vacations of the Iberian Peninsula and the United Kingdom are certainly worth noting. Beyond, the likes of France & Germany can also provide some possibilities for golf vacations. However, climates are better suited in those Mediterranean countries.

The Physics of Golf

The Physics of Golf, is a title that a popular book goes by on the subject. Theodore Jorensen's book provides players with a guide to how physics relates to the game. Ultimately, it relates to the ball & club design, ball trajectory (or flight) and swing dynamics.

Looking at the swing itself first which is a great example of angular motion. Here, study of the swing has pointed to some sound swing principles that allow for better shots. Ultimately, club head velocity (speed) will determine a good amount of the distance. For, with greater velocity, greater kinetic energy will be transferred to the ball. Little wonder that golf pros with 100-mph swings can get the ball further than players who have slower swing speeds. Ultimately, the formula: distance = mass x acceleration, is a good summary.

The angle by which the club strikes the ball can also have an important effect. Some research carried out has suggested that there is also an optimum lie angle between club shaft and face for ball striking, relating to club head speed.

Another issue relates to ball contact itself. Optimum club head contact with the ball will also allow for greater distance. This is sometimes referred to as the sweet spot of the club, and is actually a central point where ball contact is ideal. Striking the ball on this spot will transfer best into a longer, and more accurate shot, due to greater backspin imparted on the ball.

In addition, there we have that key term known as backspin. Without it, the ball will not go very far! Ultimately, backspin allows the ball to gain loft and stay longer in the air. At any rate, different backspin applied to the ball, will indeed, translate to different ball trajectory. For example, with insufficient backspin it will drop sooner, and not go so far. Ultimately, backspin relates to ball aerodynamics.

Moreover, with that, you cannot ignore the design of the ball itself. Today, golf ball design is dimpled.  As such, a dimpled ball will travel a good deal further than a smooth one. This is because the ball dimples create turbulence, which prevents air pressure behind the ball from dropping.  So better golf balls can give players an advantage.

Golf clubs also have more advanced designs too. Their lighter-weight shafts, such as graphite, can allow for faster swings, and those long distance clubs do tend to have big club heads. Remember the part of mass in the distance formula?

In fact, the USPGA (United States Professional Golf Association) now give guidelines on golf ball as well as club design. Simply because, while the study of physics has greatly enhanced the design of clubs, it must remain the case that one club does not provide too much of a disparity over another club. As such, things like balls have a distance measurement.

Overall, golf physics make an interesting study for any golfer. For more on the subject, Jorenson's book could be well worth a look.