Golf and the Good Life - Your Guide for Golf Trips Across the Pond
Episodes
Part 2 – Key Decisions for Planning a Golf Trip to Scotland, Ireland, and England
29 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In Part 2 of the series, D.J. and Connor get into the decisions that start to give an overseas golf trip its shape: when to go, where to go, which cou...
Key Decisions for Planning a Golf Trip to Scotland, Ireland, or England: Part 1
15 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Planning an overseas golf trip involves more decisions than most travelers expect, and the ones you make early on tend to shape the entire experience....
Scotland's North Coast 500
01 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Connor serves as interviewer as D.J. takes us through his long-awaited solo drive of Scotland's North Coast 500.Along the way:Rou...
Packing Revisited: How to Pack Like a Pro
18 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
We first covered packing way back in Episode 7. That was 72 episodes and a lot of Expeditions ago. It's time for an update.In this episode, D.J. a...
2027 Planning Update: Where Things Stand
03 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
If you’re thinking about a 2027 golf trip across the pond, you’ve likely noticed the noise.Deadlines. Openings. Applications. Limited tee sheets. ...
Why Your Golf Trip Needs Some Downtime
18 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we're making the case for building breathing room into your overseas golf itinerary and why it's something captains need to p...
Royal County Down with Bill Donald, General Manager – Legendary Links
04 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Our Legendary Links series returns for a conversation with Bill Donald, General Manager of Royal County Down Golf Club.Bill offers a rare, thoughtful ...
Royal Liverpool Golf Club with Andy Leadbetter – Legendary Links
21 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Our Legendary Links series returns with a conversation from one of the game’s most storied venues, Royal Liverpool Golf Club.Andy Leadbetter from Ro...
2027 Golf Trips Across the Pond – What You Need to Know
07 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
The calendar may have just turned to 2026, but for anyone considering a 2027 golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or England, the planning window is alread...
Recent Travels & New Discoveries
17 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the final episode of the year, Connor and D.J. look back on recent and extensive travels across Great Britain and Ireland. From Royal County Down a...
AI and Golf Travel Planning: What It Gets Right and Where It Falls Short
03 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
“AI is a great researcher — but a terrible trip manager.”In this episode, Connor and D.J. offer a candid look at how AI is shaping the way golfe...
Meet Your Hosts - The Backstory to Golf and the Good Life
29 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
After 70+ episodes, Connor & D.J. finally share the personal journeys that led them to the game of golf, to H&B, and eventually, to this littl...
The Best 36-Hole Days Across the Pond
15 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Come explore the best options for 36 hole days in Scotland, Ireland, and England. From legendary double-round destinations like Muirfield and Sunningd...
Play It Twice - Why You Should Play a Course a 2nd Time on Your Golf Trip
01 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Connor & D.J. explore the wisdom of playing one course a second time during your golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or England. They...
Swilcan Package – Applying for Old Course at St. Andrews Tee Times
16 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The Swilcan Package is one of the four key ways to land a tee time on The Old Course at St. Andrews.In this timely episode, DJ and Connor walk through...
Where We'd Host the Irish Open
02 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week, the Irish Open returns to the K Club. With the 2026 venue still unannounced (as of this recording) Connor & D.J. discuss where they'd l...
What to Read Before Your Golf Trip Across the Pond
20 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A common question we receive from Members preparing for their Expedition is simple: What should I read before I go?In this episode, Connor and D.J. sh...
Arrival Day Tips - How to Start Your Trip in the Fairway
06 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Your first day across the pond can set the tone for your entire golf Expedition.In this episode, Connor & D.J. share practical advice to help your...
How Overseas Golf Travel Differs from the U.S.
23 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, D.J. and Connor break down the key differences between golf travel in the U.S. and across the pond.From private clubs and tee times t...
Royal Portrush & The Open Championship
09 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
With so much preview content already swirling around this year’s Open at Royal Portrush, we decided to take a different approach.In this episode, we...
Why We Love Links Golf – And Why It Keeps Us Coming Back
18 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we’re joined for the first time by our colleague—and fellow links golf enthusiast—Mike Walters.Together, we share what draws us...
The Case for the Shoulder Season
11 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
When most travelers picture golf across the pond, they imagine long summer days and busy clubhouses. But there’s another window that’s steadily ga...
Just Returned: Dan Wood – Reflections from Ireland and Beyond
28 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this debut episode of our Just Returned series, we’re joined by longtime H&B Member, Dan Wood.Dan hails from Greenville, South Carolina and i...
10 Questions to Ask Your Golf Tour Company – Part 2
17 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Quick heads-up: The first version of this episode had the audio from Part 1 instead of Part 2 (our bad!). It's been fixed, so without further ado,...
10 Questions to Ask Your Golf Tour Company – Part 1
30 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The best golf trips start with the right questions. In this two-part episode, we cover five 10 questions that will help you choose the right golf tour...
Fresh Finds Across the Pond: A Recap from Scotland & Ireland
16 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Connor quizzes D.J. on his recent travels through Scotland and Ireland. Along the way, they explore new discoveries, revisit a few lo...
Royal St. George's with Colin Sinclair – Legendary Links
02 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of our Legendary Links series, we’re joined by Colin Sinclair, Secretary of Royal St. George’s Golf Club.From its storied Open Cha...
Old Course at St. Andrews Tee Times - Revisited
19 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We’ve covered the topic of securing Old Course at St. Andrews tee times before, but a lot has changed in recent years. In this episode, we revisit t...
Staying Organized Before & During Your Golf Trip
05 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Planning a golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or beyond? Even with a golf travel company handling the details, there are still plenty of decisions, deadl...
Cruit Island Golf Club – Legendary Links
19 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Our Legendary Links series returns with a look at a course that few have heard of and even fewer have played. But everything about Cruit Island is the...
What's Ahead in 2025 – In Their Own Words
05 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
During the recent PGA Show in Orlando, Connor and D.J. sat down with a dozen of our golf and accommodation partners across the pond to hear what’s o...
Short Stay Golf Trips Across the Pond
21 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In recent years, we've noticed a small yet growing interest in shorter itineraries that still deliver an exceptional Golf and the Good Life experi...
Cabot Highlands with Jeremy Matte – Legendary Links
08 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Connor and D.J. as they chat with Jeremy Matte, Director of Golf & Operations at Cabot Highlands, about the arrival of Old Petty, the legacy ...
2026 Golf Trips to Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond – What You Need to Know
11 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This episode highlights the top destinations for 2026 golf trips to Scotland, Ireland, and England. You'll also learn some key dates and essential tip...
Road Trips to Pair with Golf Across the Pond
26 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Connor & D.J. as they venture off the well worn path – literally – to share some great road trips to pair with golf in Scotland and Irela...
Post-Trip Recap from Scotland & Ireland
13 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Connor & D.J. share some news from St. Andrews and recap their annual journeys to Scotland and Ireland. From Dornoch to Portrush...
Scotland & Ireland: Playing Both Countries in One Epic Trip
30 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Considering a golf trip that spans both Scotland and Ireland? While combining these iconic destinations isn’t the ideal choice for everyone, it’s...
Exploring Aberdeen: Golf and the Good Life in Northeast Scotland
16 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In follow-up to our recent episode on Cruden Bay Golf Club, we're back with an in-depth look at the broader Aberdeen area. Come explore this often o...
Cruden Bay Golf Club with Ru Macdonald – Legendary Links
01 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Our Legendary Links series returns with a visit to Cruden Bay Golf Club, plus the show's first guest. Connor & D.J. were joined by lifelong Crud...
Tips for Golf Trip Captains – Leading Your Group Like a Pro
18 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
If you've ever served as the lead planner of a golf trip, you know it can be a thankless task that turns into a part time job. In this episode, ...
Edinburgh & East Lothian – Part 2
04 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for the conclusion of our two-part series on golf trips to Edinburgh and East Lothian. Part 1 covered the exceptional golf courses near Edinb...
Edinburgh & East Lothian – Part 1
21 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
When it comes to Golf and the Good Life, the Edinburgh & East Lothian region is simply as good as it gets. Join Connor & D.J. as they provid...
Do You Really Need a Golf Travel Company?
07 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
When golfers turn to H&B to plan golf trips across the pond, two common, though sometimes unspoken questions often linger in the back of their min...
Tips & Advice from 2024 H&B Travelers
24 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
With the 2024 golf travel season half complete, Connor & D.J. recap some valuable tips and advice shared by recent H&B travelers. The insigh...
Royal Troon Golf Club – Legendary Links
10 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for a visit to Royal Troon Golf Club – Host of the 2024 Open Championship. From the club's rich history and notable holes to the Good L...
Small Group Golf Trips – Essential Advice and Insight
26 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
For small groups, the task of planning an overseas golf trip brings a unique set of hurdles, some significant advantages, and a few key considerations...
Tips for Traveling with Your Golf Clubs
12 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Connor and D.J. share some essential tips for traveling with your golf clubs. Stay tuned until the end for unbelievable story relate...
Our Favorite Par-3s in Ireland
29 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Connor and D.J. as they continue talking their favorite par-3s – this time from Ireland. The picks range from the famous to the infamous and ...
Our Favorite Par-3s in Scotland
15 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Connor and D.J. as they explore some of their favorite par-3s from the great golf courses of Scotland. From the famous to the off the beaten pat...
The Channel Coast of England
01 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Channel Coast of England has long lived in the shadow of the other marquee regions for golf travel in the U.K. and Ireland. But as Connor & ...
Lahinch Golf Club – Legendary Links
17 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Our Legendary Links series returns with a visit to Lahinch Golf Club. Join Connor & D.J. for an in-depth exploration of one of the most beloved c...
Our Favorite Spots in St. Andrews
04 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Connor & D.J. as they return to The Home of Golf to share some of their favorite off-the-course spots in St. Andrews. From restaurants to 19...
The Old Course at St. Andrews Ballot and Singles Daily Draw
20 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Old Course at St. Andrews Ballot and the brand new Singles Daily Draw are two of the most common ways to score tee times at The Home of Golf. Bu...
Prestwick Golf Club – Legendary Links
06 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Our Legendary Links series returns with a visit to Prestwick Golf Club. Join Connor & D.J. for an in-depth exploration of The Birthplace of The O...
Dublin's Golf and the Good Life
21 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
When it comes to Golf and the Good Life, Dublin has it all. From the renowned golf courses, rich history, and notable sites to its lively pubs, vibra...
Northern Ireland Golf Trips – Beyond the Royals
08 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Northern Ireland is home to many outstanding golf courses beyond its famous headliners: Royal County Down and Royal Portrush. In this episode, Connor...
Royal Dornoch Golf Club – Legendary Links
24 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This episode of Golf and the Good Life marks the launch of a new series: Legendary Links. Throughout the series, Connor & D.J. will take listener...
New Golf and Good Life Discoveries for 2024
11 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Although the off season for overseas golf travel is when our industry tries to catch its breath, there is no rest for the weary for the H&B team. ...
2025 Golf Trips: What You Need to Know
29 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
For golfers hoping to play the great courses in Scotland and Ireland, it's time to start planning for trips in 2025. In this episode, Connor and ...
Tips for Self-Drive Golf Trips Across the Pond
15 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Each year, numerous H&B travelers embark on self-drive golf trips to the U.K. and Ireland. Although the service of a professional Driver-Host is ...
10 Golf Travel Mistakes to Avoid
25 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The average golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or beyond requires numerous tee times, reservations, and other arrangements. Each of them is an opportuni...
Flight Tips for Golf Trips Across the Pond
11 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
After all of the planning and preparations, your flight is the last big hurdle to clear before you can enjoy your golf trip across the pond. Althoug...
The Highlands of Scotland
27 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Once considered a far flung destination, The Highlands is now one of the most popular regions for golf trips to Scotland By the end of the episode, y...
Must-See Sightseeing Stops
13 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When your golf trip calls for a little sightseeing, there are an abundance of must-see stops in Scotland, Ireland, and England. Join Connor and D.J. ...
Let's Talk About Price
30 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When planning a golf trip to Scotland or Ireland, understanding the total cost of your trip can be a challenge. In this episode of Golf and the Good ...
Whisky & Golf – Perfect Pairings in Scotland & Ireland
16 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When golf trips call for a little time off the course, whisky tours are the most requested activity by H&B travelers. In this episode, Connor &a...
Future Open Championship Venues and 2023 Recap
02 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Connor and D.J. recap the 2023 Open at Royal Liverpool Golf Club, and offer a detailed look at the future host courses for The Open Championship. Ad...
Royal Liverpool & England's Golf Coast - 2023 Open Championship
16 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Come along as we explore Royal Liverpool Golf Club - host of the 2023 Open Championship - and the exceptional links courses of England's Golf Coas...
Southwest Ireland – Part 3
05 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for the conclusion of our in-depth visit to the great golf courses and stunning sights in Southwest Ireland. This episode features "the...
Southwest Ireland – Part 2
21 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Come along as we continue exploring the exceptional Golf and the Good Life in Southwest Ireland. From a Top 25 course in the world to the unforgettab...
Southwest Ireland – Part 1
07 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Southwest Ireland is the crown jewel of golf trips to the Emerald Isle. The area is home to four courses ranked in the Golf Digest World Top 100 –...
10 Tips for a Stress-Free Golf Trip Across the Pond
24 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The average golf trip to Scotland or Ireland requires the planning and execution of 40-50 individual reservations, tee times, and other arrangements. ...
The Complete Guide to Royal County Down and Royal Portrush
09 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Royal County Down and Royal Portrush are the two hottest tee times for Ireland golf trips. The former is the #1 ranked golf course in the world by G...
The Best 19th Holes in Golf Across the Pond
26 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for a visit to some of the best 19th holes in golf. This episode of Golf and the Good Life was inspired by a recent article at LINKS Magazin...
Caddie FAQs for Golf Trips to Scotland, Ireland, and England
12 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Connor and D.J. share everything you need to know about caddies for golf trips to Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond. By the end of the episode, you'l...
Packing for Golf Trips to Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond
29 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Connor & D.J. share everything you need to know about packing for a golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond. By the end of the episode, you&#...
How to Book Tee Times at The Old Course at St. Andrews
15 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Tee times at The Old Course at St. Andrews are a coveted part of many golf trips to Scotland. But despite being a truly public course, landing a tee...
A Guide to 2024 Golf Trips to Scotland, Ireland, & England
01 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Thanks to the current unprecedented demand for travel, many golfers have already started to look ahead to 2024 golf trips to Scotland, Ireland, and En...
The MVP of Your Golf Trip Across the Pond
16 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Transportation is often an overlooked part of planning a golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, and beyond. But as any experienced golf traveler will attest,...
Northwest Ireland – Part 2
01 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The conclusion of our two-part podcast dedicated to the great golf courses of Northwest Ireland. In this episode, Connor and Daniel venture off Ir...
Northwest Ireland – Part 1
18 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The steady rise in demand for Northwest Ireland golf trips has been one of the most interesting developments in golf travel of late. Although one ...
Welcome to Golf and the Good Life
05 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Golf and the Good Life – Your guide to golf travel across the pond. In this new podcast, presented by Haversham & Baker...