My Thai Golf-The Caddies.

Caddies are not just the key ingredient of the Thailand golfing experience.
To me they are the unique selling point.

They take away all the hassle and allow you to focus on your game and get the most from your holiday.

Don't be fooled by thinking that the best looking caddie is necessarily the 'best caddie'. They all look so professional in their uniforms but it's usually age and experience that will assist you in playing your best golf.

 
I have had plenty of caddies who look very young only to find out during the round that they are twice the age I thought and have been caddying for many years.

A good knowledge of English is always a good sign that you are in the hands of a knowledgeable and experienced caddie, but it is not essential.

 A really top caddie will provide the right yardages, suggest the right club and read the greens correctly.
They are paid to rake the bunkers, repair your divots and pitch marks, and to mark and clean your ball.
Always tip generously especially if you're going back.

Occasionally even the best caddies will make mistakes but you shouldn't berate them.

If you are having a bad day do your best to control your temper, even if your game is in bits.
You are the one who is playing the loose shots, not the caddie.

Relax and enjoy the surroundings. you could be in worse places.

In Thailand it is considered very bad manners to lose your temper in public and a tantrum may be construed as a slight on your caddie's ability. This may in turn upset the other caddies in the group. Stay calm!

All caddies enjoy a laugh so involve them in your funny moments.
It's also wise to let them know if you are not feeling well or have an injury.

 One of the funniest thing I've witnessed is one of my pals [Spencer] teeing off at beautiful Bangpra GC when the main button on his shorts burst. He held his follow through pose perfectly as all four caddies fell about in fits of laughter.

Spencer had earlier decided to 'go commando' due to the heat.
He was not wearing any underpants and his shorts were firmly lodged around his knees.

As my caddie later remarked, 'the little bird has fallen from the nest!'
Priceless!

More of my Thai golfing experiences will follow in due course.

I'm also on Twitter @mythaigolf