CAROLINA FEATURES

Q and A:
Independent Golf
Package Providers

By Shane Sharp,
Contributing Writer

What is an "Independent Golf Packager"?

An "Independent Packager" is a form of golf travel agent who works with a wide selection of lodging options and in the case of the larger independents- all of the golf courses. Some will offer air travel and car rental as well as lodging and tee-times, but today's computer knowledgeable golfer can usually organize these two elements more efficiently on his own through the internet.

Typically operating with a website as a storefront, the Independent Packager is able to arrange a fully customized golf trip that meets whatever need the golfers express. The Packager should listen very carefully to what the group would like to do, offer suggestions on maximizing the " reserves lodging and tee-times and takes uncertainty out of the equation. It is a very important service because in the busiest times of the golf seasons it is virtually impossible to just come to the Beach and "wing-it" like one might have been able to many years ago. You really do need help in advance!!!!

What are the advantages of choosing an Independent Packager?

There are two main types of golf packagers - independent"packagers and hotel packagers, and there are some very important differences between them.

Hotel golf packagers approach the golf package with the goal of filling their respective property and should assemble a golf schedule that works well from that particular locations geography.

An independent packager typically offers a wide variety of lodging options - golf course villas, oceanfront properties and hotels adjacent the large entertainment, dining and shopping complexes. They are also able to monitor, adjust and upgrade their lodging offerings each year as conditions change on the Grand Strand.

Because most Independents are not financially bound to any particular property the are able to match the lodging location with the desired golf schedule- often cutting many, many minutes of drive time for the golfers. This "independence" and wide lodging offering allows the Independent to work to maximize the golf experience for the golfer - without the handicap of having just one lodging location as a base for the golfer.

Another real advantage is that most independents are "golf enthusiasts" who have first hand knowledge of the courses they are recommending. There is very little of the "Hotel Turnover" of staff members with the Independent packagers.

With a great golf experience for the golfer as their primary goal rather than occupancy rates at a given property the reputable independent offers some very real advantages to the golf group leader who has all his buddies counting on him!

How many are there and how to find them?

There are many, many independents but it is impossible to land on a firm number. Why? Because unfortunately there are some smaller "Independents" who come and go each year. That is why, while there are strong advantages to using independents it is important to be sure to use a long standing independent with a well-established reputation.

Any web search engine will begin to point you in the right direction, but be sure when contacting them to ask how long they have been serving golfers in the area. MyrtlebeachGolf.com and CarolinaGolfTravel.com are two very good sources of information on golf packagers.

Repeat Business

It is very difficult to determine how much repeat business other Independent and Hotel packagers receive. If the package is put together with care, the Golf Coordinators are knowledgeable and friendly, and administration procedures (collection, refund, cancellations, etc) are customer friendly repeat business should be assured. Carolina Golf Travel currently runs a repeat business percentage of nearly 45percent.

Can independents do it cheaper?

By and large Independent Packagers should be able to put together a very economical package when that is the main goal of the group. BUT- never has the old adage "You get what you pay for" been more applicable than in the golf package industry.

Most golfers are traveling a fair distance to get here and a good "golf coordinator" will be sure to not let someone sacrifice golf quality for a dollar or two. By scheduling carefully and taking advantage of mid-week and PM rates the independent can certainly max out the golf value for the money spent. The ultimate goal of the "independent" should be to create the best possible package in a price range the golfer is comfortable with.

How Many Courses are available through Independents?

Most Independents will offer all of the courses on the Grand Strand if they are long established and reputable. It is very likely that they will offer as many or more courses than the "Hotel" packagers