By JD Latorre

While it’s a fallacy that coal can be turned into glittering diamonds, it’s nonetheless true that shining stars can blossom from the fertile soil surrounding former Welsh coal country. Case in point, the five glowing stars awarded to Celtic Manor Resort (www.celtic-manor.com) – a luxury  destination lauded as the best in the UK and situated less than two hours from London. With pampered service from the wonderfully attentive staff, sterling amenities fit for royalty and world-class golf to boot, Celtic Manor sparkles as brilliantly as the Hope Diamond.

Halfway through a tour of Chateau Roztez our host ushers us into the intimate chapel and smiles as our jaws hit the floor (and not for the first time). 'We have two churches here,' our host says in a whisper. 'This is our church of religion. Outside you will see that our designer Robin Hiseman has created a cathedral of golf.'

NEW YORK – The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. is offering an exclusive Leading Golf event catering to sophisticated global travelers who want to play the world’s finest golf courses and enjoy distinctive experiences, while staying at luxurious one-of-a-kind hotels.

WILMINGTON, N.C. – PerryGolf has added to its golf cruising options with a luxury river barge that sails the River Thames through London’s western suburbs and the nearby English countryside. The Magna Carta offers a maximum of eight passengers a leisurely six-night cruise that combines golf at four remarkable courses, including world-renowned Sunningdale, along with spectacular scenery, dining and service.

BATH, England—Every city in the United Kingdom has a castle, or so it seems, which led postmaster and entrepreneur Ralph Allen to built one overlooking the city of Bath in about 1762.

While the beautiful Italian islands of Sicily and Sardinia have long been known for their breathtaking natural beauty, it is an overlooked fact that they also feature some of the finest locations to indulge in a round of golf.

Packing for a golf trip to play links golf courses like Carnoustie or Prestwick Golf Club can be tricky, as the weather over the pond pretty much does as it pleases.