If you like to play links, you can find amazing places to play all over the world. You can plan an entire vacation around your game, or you can just plan to fit in a few holes while visiting somewhere new. Regardless of the type of trip you’re planning, you’ll need to identify the best golf courses so you can get the most out of your experience while you’re there.

Here are some tips on how you can find the best greens when traveling away from home:

Learn more about course features

All golf courses are designed a little differently. Sure, the end result is getting the ball in the hole, but you may have to traverse some hilly terrain, deal with huge sandbars, or manage other obstacles along the way. Some venues are designed for a more professional skill set, while others are created with the hobbyist in mind. They may offer the full 18 holes, or they may offer just nine. Make sure you know exactly what to expect on the putting green before you sign up for a game. You will be operating on limited time and you don’t want to waste it on unsatisfying gameplay.

Look for places open to the public

Some of the best golf courses in the world are not open to the public. Usually you must be a member of the country club or the greens themselves. If you’re just visiting, you’re not likely to invest in a membership. Be sure to find out if the course is open to the public before you list it. You don’t want to wait until you’re turned around at the gate to realize you won’t be able to play there.

Find out about the Green Fees

Even if the golf courses you choose are open to the public, they will charge you fees for the privilege of playing. You may also need to pay additional fees for required items. Some places will offer a discount at certain times of the week or day, usually the least busy days and times. If you want to play somewhere that charges high fees, you can still fit your budget by planning your game during one of these discounted times. Add any caddy fees and other charges you may face.

Playing a round of golf is a great way to relax, helping you enjoy your vacation even more. Hitting up new golf courses while on vacation can help you enjoy a bit of variety in your game. Be sure to research potential places to play before making your schedule to ensure they meet your needs and fit within your budget. These tips can help you identify the right places to play so you have a game and vacation to remember.