IN MALAYSIA, where there are as many shopping malls as golf courses, it is not unusual for holidaymakers to couple the two popular pastimes in a single trip.
Some hoteliers have bundled the two to attract more visitors. Pearl International Hotel is offering a treat for all golfers heading to Kuala Lumpur during the school holidays. Those who book the Holiday Room special package at RM222 (S$100) are entitled to a complimentary round of 18- hole golf, inclusive of sharing a buggy and green fees at Bukit Unggul Country Club, which is just minutes away from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in Sepang.
And while you tee off at the 18-hole par-71 golf course, your family can indulge in retail therapy at Pearl Point Shopping Mall, which is adjacent to the four-star hotel. If that isn't enough, Mid Valley Mega Mall, Sunway Lagooon Theme Park and other places of interest are just a stone's throw away.
Mr James Choong, director of sales and marketing at Pearl International Hotel, says: "We've noticed the rising popularity of the sport and also Tourism Malaysia's effort to promote Malaysia as a golfing destination. Hence we decided to introduce this package for the first time. It is very affordable and attractive for Singaporeans and Bruneians."
Bukit Unggul is just one of the many golf courses in central Malaysia. According to Tourism Malaysia, there are over 200 golf courses spread over the country, many of which are of international standards, having hosted events such as The Malaysian Open, sanctioned by the Asian PGA Tour as well as the European PGA Tour, and the Volvo Masters of Asia.
Add this to the country's fair and balmy weather all year round, and it is not difficult to see why Malaysia is a popular golfing destination. Here are a few golf courses in central Malaysia to choose from:
Glenmarie Golf & Country Club: Located about 30 minutes away from KLIA, this is a 36-hole golf course. The nearby Pan Pacific Glenmarie Kuala Lumpur often acts as home to travelling golfers. Tel: 603-7803-9090.
Kajang Hill Golf Club: Located just outside the town of Kajang, the club is home to a 18-hole golf course. The club is a 45-minute drive from KLIA. Tel: 603-8723-9668.
Palm Garden Golf Club: Only a 20-minute drive from KLIA, this 27-hole course is right in the heart of the capital city. One of the finest in the region, the club also boasts excellent service. Tel: 603-8942-7160/7153.
