Good morning,

In last week’s issue, I shared news that: Cambodia has been recognized by the IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators) for excellence in golf tourism across the Asia Pacific region. This prestigious recognition comes from over 700 golf tour operators from 69 countries, who nominate the destinations, resorts, and courses that delivered the best experiences for golf travelers over the past year.

Honestly, I was just as surprised as you might have been by this announcement. But after diving deeper into the story, I’ve come to realize one thing, Cambodia is no longer a hidden gem in the golf world. It’s a destination you absolutely cannot overlook. From world-class courses to unbeatable value, Cambodia is making waves and proving it’s here to stay as a top contender in the global golf scene.

In Today’s Email

• 📈 Zero to hero

• ⚓️ The two cities that golf is anchored by

• ⚡️ The future outlook

This Week in Golf 

It’s major week once again, and this year the spotlight shines on Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, home to none other than Rory McIlroy. As the World No. 2, all eyes are on Rory as he faces the immense pressure of chasing yet another major victory on his home turf.

• From Gang Member to Golfer- Ryan Peake’s Unbelievable Journey to Royal Portrush!

• Gotterup - World No. 158 won the Scottish Open last weekend fending off the likes of Rory McIlroy to win

• Plover Cove - You can play Hong Kong’s first new golf course in over 30 years 2 years before it’s built

 Our Fairway Feature: Sun Day Red

For those that didn’t know ‘Sun Day Red’ is a clever play on Tiger Woods iconic red shirt that he wears on Sunday’s. The logo of a Tiger (of course) features 15 stripes representing Tiger’s 15 major championship wins. Launched with a dramatic video and strong storytelling, the brand quickly gained massive social media attention and exceeded initial sales expectations.

Check them out here: 👉 Sun Day Red

📈 Cambodia's Fairway to Fame: How the Kingdom of Wonder Became Asia's Golfing Gem

Alright, buckle up. I’m about to talk about the most unexpected golf destination on the planet - Cambodia.

When most people hear "Cambodia," they think temples, complex history, and maybe that scene from "Indiana Jones." What they don't think is "world-class golf destination." But here's the twist - Cambodia just pulled off the ultimate tourism plot twist.

Let me set the scene: A country that's been through more political drama than a Netflix series has somehow transformed itself into Asia's most fascinating golf paradise. It's like watching an underdog sports movie, except the underdog is an entire nation's tourism strategy.

The Golf Revolution: How Cambodia Went from Zero to Hero

Fifteen years ago, Cambodia's golf scene was essentially non-existent. We're talking fewer courses than most suburban country clubs. Fast forward to today, and you've got a golf destination that's making Thailand and Vietnam look over their shoulders.

What changed? Three magical ingredients:

1. Strategic Vision

2. Massive Private Investment

3. A "Why Not Us?" Attitude

The Phnom Penh Phenomenon

Imagine a city where modern skyscrapers dance with ancient architecture, and golf courses are designed like they've been created by some architectural wizard who decided, "You know what? Let's make golf courses that tell a story."

Take the Vattanac Golf Resort - a course so beautiful it almost feels like cheating. Designed by Sir Nick Faldo, it's not just a golf course. It's a cultural experience with perfectly manicured greens. The course literally incorporates elements of Khmer temple design. You're not just playing golf; you're walking through a living, breathing piece of Cambodian history.

Green Fees That Will Make Your Wallet Do a Happy Dance

Here's where it gets ridiculous. A world-class golf experience that costs less than a fancy dinner in most Western cities. We're talking:

• Weekday rates: Around $80-$120

• Weekend rates: Slightly higher, but still a steal

• Caddie included (and trust me, these caddies know more about golf and local culture than most tour guides)

Siem Reap: Where Golf Meets Ancient Mysticism

If Phnom Penh is the ambitious, modern sibling, Siem Reap is the wise, cultural elder. Imagine playing golf with the temples of Angkor Wat as your backdrop. Your morning might start with a perfect drive, and by afternoon, you're exploring thousand-year-old architectural marvels.

The Angkor Golf Resort isn't just a golf course. It's a narrative of Cambodia's resilience, beauty, and unexpected magic. Designed by Nick Faldo (again, the man has a thing for Cambodia), it's a testament to how this country turns every challenge into an opportunity.

Economic Judo: Turning Golf into a Strategic Asset

What Cambodia has done is essentially economic judo. They've taken a sport typically associated with luxury and made it accessible. Affordable five-star experiences? Check. World-class facilities? Check. A cultural journey that happens to include golf? Double-check.

The Numbers Don't Lie

• Increasing golf tourist numbers

• Growing international recognition

• Investment that's transforming entire regions

The Future: More Than Just a Trend

This isn't a temporary tourism fad. Cambodia is playing a long game. New infrastructure, strategic marketing, and a genuine commitment to creating extraordinary experiences.

Challenges? Absolutely. Sustainability, maintaining quality, competing with established golf destinations. But if the last 15 years are any indication, Cambodia doesn't just meet challenges - it redefines them.

The Verdict

Cambodia isn't just selling golf. It's selling an experience. A journey that happens to include some of the most breathtaking golf courses you'll ever play.

So, golf enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those who love a good unexpected story: Your next destination is calling. And it sounds a lot like a perfectly struck iron shot echoing across a Cambodian landscape.

Until next time

I hope you enjoyed this edition of The Caddie’s Playbook Please share the newsletter with at least one of your golfing crew and like I said earlier, don’t sleep on Cambodia it’s a gem for sure.

The Caddie