Arizona is a golfer’s paradise. Throughout the state north to south east to west golf courses abound. Trouble is Arizona golf is expensive, especially in the winter months when people from the north seek relief from the winter snows and $200 to $300 greens fees are not uncommon.

But the savvy traveler can enjoy Arizona’s golf with out breaking his or her pocket book by planning the golfing trip by the calendar. Think of April 15 to May 15 when golf courses drop their fees as the Snow Birds flee the south for their homes elsewhere. This is a marvelous time to book your trip the weather is still moderate (remember 80 or 90 degrees in the dry climate is ok) and the courses are not crowded. The same is true of October and November. The winter folk have not yet arrived and prices are reasonable.

Look into buying the Southwest PGA card, it’s around $100 per person but when presented gives 50% discount Monday - Thursday and 25% discount Friday- Sunday. It can be purchased at any participating course. Two or three rounds and you have retrieved the cost plus the card is good for 12 months Nov 1 through October 31. And a good many courses honor it.

Another tip and you can ignore it if you wish but some of the most over priced courses and overrated are the ones you see on TV or read about in the Magazines. Sure they cater to the Pro’s but how about you? I’ll name some names, TPC Scottsdale (The Phoenix Open) Troon, Greyhawk, and Wildfire are among them. Play them once if you must but look for other options. These and others have arrangements with the big resorts who funnel players to them a exorbitant prices (They do not honor the PGA Card). If your staying at one of these resorts ask them for other options they’ll have them.

And finally consider the summer time. Prices are low, low, low and remember Arizonan’s play year around and enjoy it. Sure you’ll be tired and sweaty when the round is over but that’s what swimming pools and cool drinks are for.