Popular Golf Podcaster Hosts V-Day Vacation

While I understand the basic tenets of marketing, I'm one of those people who can't stand walking into Wal-Mart the day after Halloween only to be greeted by a sense-slamming array of what I call "KK" — Kristmas Krap. That said, I also understand that planning a good golf vacation takes some serious lead time, which is why, before we've even thrown the Thanksgiving bird into the oven, I'm giving ya'll a heads-up about a cool Valentine's Getaway hosted by longtime Fairways + Greens friend Fred Greene.

Slated for Feb. 9-13, The Golf Smarter Scottsdale Adventure, says Greene, “is going to be a great weekend of golf, sun, fun and surprises.” Open to Golf Smarter members and anyone dying to get in some top-drawer winter golf, the package includes four nights at Xona Resorts (I’ve stayed there, and can report that it’s as comfy and convenient as any digs in the Valley of the Sun) and rounds at four nearby, award-winning golf courses, starting with the Raptor course at Grayhawk Resort, followed by 18 of the 27 holes at Westin Kierland Resort, Pinnacle at Troon North and finally the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale — home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, which will conclude just days before you step on the tee. Chances are you'll still hear the echose from its loud, raucous 16th hole.

Combining the amenities of a vacation condominium with all the services of a resort hotel, XONA Resort Suites has large comfortable beds and big rooms with free Wi-Fi and HD TVs. Each four-bedroom suite provides the comfort of your own private bedroom and bathroom with a common living room, dining room and fully furnished kitchen. Bring your spouse, partner, buddies, or come alone. Bring a foursome and have a full suite to yourselves. And this time no one has to sleep on the floor or couch, always a good thing.

Recent Golf Smarter guest, Jeff Ritter, hailed for his unique approach to coaching, will join the group for dinner and a podcast recording session.

Other after-golf events include a field trip, group dinners, and hanging out at the pool, along with a full menu of available activities for non-golfers, including a day of total indulgence at the Willow Stream Spa at the AAA Five-Diamond Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

Deadline to RSVP is January 7. Fred and his lieutenants will arrange the tee-times, meals and accommodations; all you have to do is show up. Visit here to get the complete Golf Smarter lovin' feelin'.