This lush course is a Robert Trent Jones, Sr. classic that has developed a strong following among the international golf traveling set, with a strong Canadian presence in particular. The main annual golf tournament is called the Brugal International, thanks to its original sponsorship by the Dominican Republic's leading rum distillery. While this traveler did not have an opportunity to play the links here personally, he did take an extensive tour of the entire course. The gently rolling fairways are punctuated by well-tended groups of palms and other trees and foliage, and the courses derive most of their moisture from a drainage system so everything remains verdant year-round, even in the driest of periods. Two large ponds make the seventeenth and eighteenth holes the most challenging to overcome at the end of this extensive and pleasant course.

The airy, stylish clubhouse just off the eighteenth hole is a circular building of high ceilings, white walls, wicker and dark wood furnishings, contrasted by a sleek lime-colored lounge area. The large, curved bar area is a final welcoming hole after a morning or late afternoon session on the adjacent course. The adjacent pro shop can fill in with any golf attire, accessories, or equipment you might need (

This is both a club membership and day-access course for guests at some of the hotel properties within the huge surrounding Playa Dorada complex. To check on rates and services—there are golf clinics, individual and beginner instruction, caddie services, etc.—call the Playa Dorada Golf Course at (809) 320 3472 or go to their website at www.playadoradagolf.com