FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Below we have tried to answer the most common questions we receive from our guests. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us.
HOW DO I BOOK MY TOUR?
After we discuss your requirements by email or phone, we will send you a no-obligation offer. If it is necessary to adjust your itinerary, we will do so and when you are completely satisfied, we will send you an invoice, which will be divided into a deposit part and a supplementary part. Once we receive the deposit, your trip will be officially booked. All you need to do is organise your flights and pack your clubs.
HOW LARGE GROUPS DO YOU ORGANISE TOURS FOR?
We take care of individual golfers to entire golf teams. Most often, however, our clients travel in groups of 4 to 8 people.
WILL A DRIVER OR DELEGATE FROM THE HOTEL PICK ME UP AT THE AIRPORT?
Upon arrival at your chosen airport, you will be picked up by a driver or delegate. From then on, he or she will be available whenever you need him or her, for example to deal with phone calls, changes in travel arrangements, cancellations, dinner reservations or to organise other activities as you wish. He or she will look after your luggage and golf clubs all the time between check-ins from one hotel to the next, and will always be one step ahead to make sure your luxury holiday is in perfect order and running like clockwork. As he is already experienced, you will always arrive at the course in plenty of time to warm up and recover before your game. Your delegate will always be on hand to book you a table at the restaurant of your choice and recommend the best bars in the area.
HOW CAN I PAY?
We accept payment by bank transfer on the basis of an invoice and signed contract.
WHERE CAN I FIND A BANKING CONNECTION TO PARADEGOLF?
All details are here or in the contacts.
Account name: PARADE GOLF
Bank code: 82-67-30
Account number: 30027085
IBAN: GB51CLYD82673030027085
BIC (SWIFT): CLYDGB21730
CAN I BUY SOMEONE A STAYCATION AS A GIFT?
Yes. In case you know the names and handicap of the passengers.
WILL MY CELL PHONE WORK IN THE UNITED KINGDOM?
We recommend that you contact your mobile operator before you travel to ensure that your device is correctly set up to function in the UK and Ireland. However, it is important to remember that mobile phones are not allowed on most golf courses or in all clubs.
WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE ON GOLF COURSES?
Most golf clubs aren’t too strict about clothing on the course, but it’s usually not possible to wear shorts and you have to wear at least a collared shirt. It is not appropriate to wear caps/hats and golf shoes or trainers inside the clubs and some clubs may insist on a jacket and tie when in certain areas of the club. Your driver/delegate will advise you of the requirements of that club the day before your game.
WHAT'S THE WEATHER GONNA BE LIKE?
The weather in Scotland and Ireland is very changeable, especially on the west coast. It is likely that you will experience rainy weather and we recommend that you prepare accordingly. Most pro shops in clubs are stocked with waterproof clothing in case there is nothing to hand.
DO I NEED TO TAKE OUT TRAVEL INSURANCE?
We definitely recommend that you take out travel insurance for your trip in case any complications arise. The insurance should cover cancellation fees, medical costs, personal belongings in case of loss or failure to deliver your luggage on time to your destination. Please check the terms of your insurance before you travel.
WHAT ABOUT TIPS?
Although there is no officially announced tipping rate for Scotland and Ireland, we recommend leaving at least a 15% tip for food and at least 30% for the caddie, in case you are happy with it. Your driver/delegate will inform you of the prices on each course.
ARE YOU ABLE TO PROVIDE A CADDIE / CADDY?
Most courses do not guarantee requested caddies. However, ParadeGolf maintains a good relationship with the Caddie Masters at all of the venues used by our customers and your driver/delegate will do everything possible to ensure you have a decent caddie selection throughout your tour. We appreciate that quality can vary at each course, but we will be able to recommend those who will not let you down. Depending on your itinerary, it is possible to keep your favourite caddie for several rounds.
DO I HAVE TO CARRY MY ZTP CARD?
Many playgrounds have disability restrictions and/or require a card or certificate of disability. So that you don’t have to prove yourself every time, Parade Golf will keep a copy of your ID and sign the entire group in to give you time to recover and make a few putts. Please email us a scanned copy of your card/disability certificate before your trip.
CAN I USE A GOLF CART?
Most courses have a limited number of trolleys and reserve them for those golfers with the most severe disabilities. However, some courses do not have carts at all. If you definitely require a trolley, we recommend that you let us know as soon as possible so that we can put together a suitable itinerary with the greatest number of rounds using a trolley.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO RENT GOLF CLUBS?
Yes. You can rent golf clubs on site for £55 (approx. 1085 CZK).
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO TRAVEL TO IRELAND, SCOTLAND & ENGLAND TO PLAY GOLF?
Traditionally the golfing season starts in mid-April and runs through to mid-October. Most links courses open year-round but may have restrictions on play during the winter season.
WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS AND I CAN’T PLAY GOLF?
Rain should be expected at some stage of your visit. If you choose not to golf due to rain, no refunds or alternatives will be offered by the golf courses. On the very rare occasion that the golf course is closed by the course management due to inclement weather, you will generally be offered golf on an alternative day or a voucher towards future golf by the course.
WHAT CLOTHING SHOULD I PACK FOR MY GOLF VACATION TO IRELAND, SCOTLAND OR ENGLAND? DO I REQUIRE A HANDICAP CERTIFICATE?
- 2 pairs of golf shoes as it likely one pair will get wet
- A rain suit
- A warm hat, a waterproof hat and a baseball-style cap
- Dry, warm and wet weather gloves
- Warm layers of clothing – sweaters etc.
- Plenty of golf balls as most likely you will lose some in the challenging links rough
- All the golf courses have golf shops attached where you can buy clothing, equipment and souvenirs
- Knee-length shorts are allowed with socks at most clubs
As the weather is very hard to predict hour to hour, we recommend that your clothing is adaptable, wearing a number of light layers of warm clothing. These can easily be taken off or put on depending on the weather conditions you are experiencing. A hat is also suggested as you may be battling winds as many of the courses are in coastal locations.
Bring a sweater, even in summer, waterproofs to accompany all outdoor activities, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. Don’t be fooled into thinking you won’t need sunscreen in the summer months – when the sun shines it’s quite strong, so wear a high factor and bring a sun hat.
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY TRIP TO ENSURE BEST AVAILABILITY?
Early planning is essential to guarantee tee times on the world’s most sought-after courses. Generally, most courses will open their tee-sheets from July the year prior to play. As an Authorized Provider of coveted tee times at the Old Course St. Andrews, our team submits all client requests in February the year prior to play, so we advise that you submit your desired tee time early.
HOW DO I PLAY THE OLD COURSE ST. ANDREWS?
There are two main ways to book a tee time on the Old Course:
- Guaranteed Tee Time – this is booked as part of a minimum three-night stay package, with three nights’ accommodation in a 4 or 5 star hotel in St. Andrews, along with a guaranteed Old Course tee time, one round at either Carnoustie or Kingsbarns and a third-round at either the New or Jubilee Course, St. Andrews. These packages are bookable from April and are for a minimum of two golfers.
- The ballot is a daily draw for a small number of tee times at the Old Course. Carr Golf are happy to submit an application on our client’s behalf but there is no guarantees of success. Successful applications are notified 48 hours in advance of the date of play.
Or contact us and we will help you.
CADDIES IN IRELAND, SCOTLAND & ENGLAND?
Carr Golf will assist in requesting caddies if required during your trip. Typically, caddies in Ireland will carry two bags. In Scotland, Northern Ireland & England, caddies will generally carry 1 bag each. Caddie costs differ per course but are generally around €/£ 50-75 per golfer per round, plus gratuity. Please check with your Fulfilment Executive on specifics relating to courses for your itinerary.
RIDE-ON CARTS/BUGGIES IN IRELAND, SCOTLAND & ENGLAND?
It is most common for golfers to walk courses in Ireland and Scotland with the assistance of a caddie, if desired. Buggies are generally reserved for golfers who require them on medical grounds, on production of a letter from their medical practitioner. They should be pre-requested in advance of play, which we are happy to do on your behalf if required.
CAN GOLF CLUBS BE RENTED?
Rental of clubs can be pre-arranged if required. The average cost is €50 per round in Ireland or £50 in Northern Ireland, Scotland & England. If required, please request rental clubs from your travel executive prior to arrival, as they must be pre booked.
CAN I SHIP MY GOLF CLUBS IN ADVANCE OF MY TRAVELS?
If you would like to ship your clubs ahead of your arrival, we recommend arranging this through SHIP STICKS. They will collect your clubs from you and ship them directly to your hotel or first course ahead of your arrival.
ARE THERE PRACTICE FACILITIES AT ALL GOLF COURSES?
Most clubs have a putting green and the newer courses also provide a full driving range. Practice facilities may be limited at some golf clubs due to the age of the courses. Please check with your Travel Executive for more details.
WHAT IS THE COURSE/CLUBHOUSE DRESS CODE?
Golfers must adhere to the following dress code: Shirts must have collars, sleeves, be clean and tucked in at all times.
Vests, tee shirts (without collar/sleeves), training shoes, jeans and denim wear, camouflage style trousers, track suits and cut-offs are not permitted.
Trousers and shorts must be tailored. Tailored shorts should be approximately knee – length, but not below the knee.
Any type of footwear, shorts or headwear worn on the Links are generally not allowed in the Clubhouse, except for the Locker Rooms.
WHAT ARE THE CLUBHOUSE FACILITIES LIKE?
All clubhouses will have catering and bar facilities on site. Most clubs have pro shops that stock club memorabilia, branded clothing and a range of golf equipment. If teeing off after 1pm, we suggest you purchase your memorabilia before your round as the shop may close before you return from you round.
WHAT IS THE TIME DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IRELAND/UK AND UNITED SATES?
Ireland/UK Time is GMT which is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time, 8 hours ahead of Pacific Time.
HOW WILL I CHARGE MY ELECTRICAL DEVICES IN IRELAND, SCOTLAND & ENGLAND?
Plugs for all your gadgets are three-pronged and the electricity supply is 230 volt AC (frequency 50hz). It is a good idea to bring some adaptors as not all hotels will have US style sockets.
IN THE OFF CHANCE THERE IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, WHO SHOULD I CALL?
Dial 999 or 112 in case of emergencies. A local doctor will be accessible if required throughout your trip. Prescribed medications are widely available through chemist stores. If on prescribed medication it is important to bring an adequate supply for your journey and ensure this is packed in your hand-luggage whilst travelling.
WHAT ARE THE SMOKING LAWS IN IRELAND, SCOTLAND & ENGLAND?
Since 2004 smoking in Ireland, Scotland & England is banned fully in enclosed public places, restaurants, bars and public transport. However, it is permitted by some hotels in designated hotel rooms. Please remember that this will mean there is no smoking on board the coaches.
WHAT IS THE LEGAL DRINKING AGE?
The legal drinking age in Ireland, Scotland and England is 18.