The thought of golf in Italy

Villa Condulmer, Italy

Many people raise their eyebrow when I mention golf in Italy. A quizzical look transforms into curiosity. This is a common reaction to a dialogue that turns to one of question. Why would I do that? Let me switch the field of perspective.

I would like to offer a new category of “A trip with golf” rather than a golfing trip. I for one may not want to golf frequently in Italy and for those who have travelled to this incredible country then you will know why. Italy I feel will appeal greatly to couples. It will be an easier sell for each other to say an emphatic “Yes” and embark on such a fabulous trip. And with Milan hosting Expo 2015 from May 1 to October 31 there is another compelling reason to visit this historical country.

The limited opportunity cost of your time spent in brilliant places like Florence, Lake Como, Rome, Venice and Verona forces you to squeeze the maximum amount of enjoyment. Do you want to dip your local bread in incredible olive oil before diving into a thin crusted pizza in a central square during lunch? How about staring enthralled at a sculpture so ancient you reflect on the Grade 11 textbook that was to be the closest you would come to seeing such a historical artifact. And there is the wine, the fantastic vino. Much of it to taste, savour and swirl around in your mouth. This is Italy.

Next you may want to savour a morning cappuccino while sitting inside a tiny establishment and listening to the Italian dialect being spoken with true passion. Take a ride on a famous Italian train to historic Milano Centrale Station so you can be mesmerized by its architecture before venturing to a world mecca of shopping choice to purchase leather boots and gloves. Stop for a special moment and admire scooters and small cars whiz by before casually walking across a thousand year old bridge with a bell tower in the near horizon. Are you tired of Italy yet? I don’t think so…

So, where does golf fit in this equation? Well, the game certainly blends in well with Italy’s love of life’s pleasures and slowing things down to what is really important. Golf becomes a component to add to an adventure. An important piece. Maybe the day involves only a walk in the beautiful country for 9 holes and then off to a winery for some tastings or vintage car racing. Or, it can be a full blown 18 while strolling with a loved one or your closest chum and determining over a birdie putt whether dinner would be in a quaint place in nearby Venice or in a busy larger venue with boisterous locals and German visitors. Come to think of it…I would love to golf in Italy.