For many golf vacation visitors to Ireland or Scotland the chance to play on an ancient seaside links course is a large part of the attraction.

But links golf does provide a unique experience and will test both your stamina and your golf game in a way entirely unlike anything you might have previously experienced. More a working visit than a golf vacation at times.

Links golf courses rarely allow electronic golf buggies or golf carts. Walking is the rule. This is partly to protect the courses and partly because the terrain would make it impossible to drive a buggy safely. Some of the larger more prestigious courses may have caddies available and most will allow you to pull a simple club carrying golf cart or trolley. Plan your golf vacation ahead with a mix of easy days and harder days.

You also need to be prepared for what is often the most unique and challenging feature of vacation golf on a seaside links course in Ireland � the wind! You should brace yourself (sometimes literally) for the fact that it is going to blow very hard and � by some remarkably twisted freak of nature � in such a way that it always seems to be in your face, no matter what direction you are headed in!

If you want to have your score hold up in these conditions then you should prepare ahead and practice a few different shot types.

If you need help with this then Colin Montgomery's book How to Play Links Golf is invaluable.

Whatever happens you are sure to enjoy the golf vacation experience. This is truly golf the way that it was meant to be played.