Updates From The Beach

I've finally made it back to sun-drenched Canada (a real change from the less-than-normal Myrtle Beach weather of this week) and I'm hoping to remain closer to home for the next couple months.

Despite experiencing the after-effects of Hurricane Ida this week, I still have to say that "the beach" still delivered a top-notch golf getaway. I'll have more thoughts on that once I dry out (it may take a day or two!) but having the chance to play Glen Dornoch (18 - rain), Heritage (9 holes - heavy rain), Moorland (18 - sideways rain and wind), and True Blue Plantation (12 holes - ran out of wet and cold descriptions) was a treat.

Our home base of the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes eased the blow that the inclement conditions caused. Throw in a very smooth and efficient flight via Direct Air and the formula produced a creditable result.

Thanks to the fabulous Tim O'Connor for leading the press trip and the contributions by Heath Carter and all the staff at Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday. They truly know what the needs of golfers are and continue to work at remaining the #1 golf destination in the world. See their new Quick Quote system on their website for example. Put in all your specifications for your trip and before you know it you get back quotes from a variety of vacation packagers. They have managed to retain all the things that made beach what it was for generations past while blending in modern conveniences.

On a related travel note we brought you news the other day regarding Porter Air and their brand new direct flights from Canada. Unfortunately the company only announced new direct routes between Toronto and Myrtle Beach yesterday. Investigation showed they had also registered routes directly to "the beach" from Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City but there was no word about them in yesterday's press release.

A spokesperson for the company was kind enough to ensure we received ample updates on the Toronto routes and we have requested an official position on the Ottawa/Montreal/Quebec situation. We'll let you know when or if they have something say about that topic. Our best guess based on the limited time frame (Feb 28. - May 31st, 2010) of the Toronto flights is that it will prove to be a test situation that will determine how much interest there is for expanded service.