WINTER DRAWS ON...

It seems odd to be talking about winter, while sweltering in 30º temperatures, but from the Costa del Golf point of view, winter starts on October 1st. This is when those courses who haven't already done so, introduce their high season green fees. Fortunately, in most cases, there has been little or no increase over last year's rates, and the signs are that this has resulted in the return of many regular visitors who have been looking to see what some of our rivals have to offer. They are in for a pleasant surprise when they see the general improvements to the courses and the service they will receive. They will also find some fine new courses to try, as El Chaparral and Calanova, east of Marbella, and Doña Julia in Casares, offer quality golf at very reasonable prices. We look forward to welcoming back some old friends.