Tales from the Corners

The sound of the iron on the club as it approaches the vulnerable white dimpled ball on its tee produces an exhilarating effect all its own. Once it departs from its resting place, the ball ascends into the distance like a free bird. For myself and others it is an escape like no other. Welcome to the game of golf. For some, golf is a hobby or an occasional treat. With my busy schedule, I include myself in this group. Whenever I get on the fairway, golf is a mystery and a challenge. After each outing, I’m left wondering, “What is it about this game?” When you break it all down, it’s just people hitting balls into holes. For others, golf is religion. I have met many of these devotees on my travels who are equally fascinated with the game. Whether you are an amateur or a pro, I have discovered that all types of golf courses are available throughout the Southeast. Golfing among great scenery Playable yet challenging is what describes the Maggie Valley Club’s golf courses....

Lake Toxaway remains as one of my favorite trips in recent years. It was here where I went water tubing and had a blast! Yes, I did lose my favorite pair of sunglasses on the pristine lake, but the experience was well worth it. Now, the lake's top-notch property, the Greystone Inn, will be offering golf opportunities. Check it out on Men's Traveler in the Golf section.

Are you looking for the ultimate golf trip experience? Check out what Pinehurst, North Carolina has to offer in The Latest section on Men's Traveler. In other news, I recently participated in a pub crawl in Atlanta's Virginia Highland. I highly recommend Hand in Hand, an English restaurant. I haven't been in this building since it was the St. Charles Deli in the early 1990s. Other VA-Highland staples seem to be thriving including Murphy's, which is one of my old favorites. If you happen to live in the ATL or will be here in a trip or layover, get over to the Highlands.

Hey folks, I just added some new material in the Golf section and the following item in The Latest section: The ribbon has just been cut to open the third leg of one of southwest Florida ’s most acclaimed nature-based attractions, the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail – nearly doubling the size to 190 miles. This latest phase will introduce paddlers to the Caloosahatchee River ’s creeks and meandering waters.