The 131st Open Championship at Muirfield was one of the most exciting in recent memory. Producing a worthy champion in Ernie Els, who heroically played through Saturday's testing conditions stopping Woods' quest to win the third leg of the Modern Era Grand Slam, and in the process winning his third Major title.

Next year The Open Championship returns to England at Royal St. George' s.

The last time The Open was played here, in 1993, Greg Norman's incredible final round 64 saw him nip Nick Faldo by 2 shots, for his second Claret Jug. PerryGolf will be there with an extension programme after our Scotland by Sea onboard the M/S Clipper Adventurer itinerary. It is also an excellent, often overlooked, destination for a links golf itinerary. Three courses in the area - Royal St. George's, Royal Cinque Ports and Prince's - have all played host to The Open Championship.

As always, the staff of PerryGolf's Scotland office spends much time vetting and discovering new classics and old favourites, both courses and accommodations, for our clients. We are very excited that the restoration of Fenton Tower, just 20 miles outside Edinburgh is now complete. Originally an ancient monument, Fenton Tower has been meticulously restored to provide luxury accommodation for up to 12 people. The magnificent, fortified 16th Century tower has opened its doors as a great Scottish home once again, with every modern convenience, gourmet cuisine and an excellent wine cellar. It is a perfect destination from which to base your group and discover the great and historic golf in the Lothian region.

On the course side, the opening of Greg Norman's Doonbeg in Ireland (previewed in depth in this Advisor) has caused quite a stir and is a wonderful addition to any Irish programme.

We look forward to seeing you across the Pond, to visit old friends and new classics, in the near future.

Good Golfing

The Helensburgh Staff

e-mail:perrygolf@golftravel.co.uk