As the first signs of emergence from our COVID-19 time-out are signaled by a diligent vaccine rollout, we can start to consider partaking in enjoyable endeavors. For me, that means golf travel.

There is no other sport for which the field of play is as unique and varied as golf. From seaside links to parkland gems, for us amateur golfers the “where” we play is far more important than the “how” we play.

The star attraction, of course, is the golf course (or courses, in many cases), but there are other factors to consider if you’re looking for that well-rounded trip that will be special.

Consider that many of the world’s great golf destinations are also within short proximity to some rich cultural surprises that will enhance the experience.

Kiawah Island, which in mid-May will host the 2021 PGA Championship on Pete Dye’s breathtaking Ocean Course, has four other courses you can play – Osprey Point, Cougar Point, Turtle Point, Oak Point.

But here’s another point: You would be remiss if you don’t use at least a half-day to travel 30 miles and soak in the charm of Charleston.

Staying with that theme, it would be a mistake to visit the 36-hole PGA Catalunya Resort in Girona, Spain, without booking a table at El Celler de Can Roca, multiple times rated as the top restaurant in the world.

The Links at Fancourt on the Garden Route in South Africa is even better than advertised. However, the majesty of the animals makes a safari something that should not be missed.

Historic cities, once-in-a-lifetime dining, and exotic experiences are just a few examples of how you can use golf as an entrée to soak in some of the wonders of our world.

Last month’s PLAYERS Championship at TPC Sawgrass provided a strong pull for golfers who’ve had a long winter. Watching great players stroll down perfectly manicured fairways in ideal golf weather was certainly motivating.

Mid-March saw snow squalls morph into unseasonably warm weather, and the burning desire to get out and play is there. Courses have opened up and an April Masters with patrons – in stark contrast to a November Masters with no patrons – undoubtedly multiplied our passion exponentially.

In coming weeks, we’ll focus more in-depth on specific courses and destinations that could satisfy your thirst for golf travel. In the meantime, let’s welcome spring, embrace the vaccines, and hope that travel continues to be safe and practical, more friendly so you can start planning that next golf visit.

There is been plenty of lost time to make up for.

Kevin Patterson is a lifelong Massachusetts resident who has worked in golf most of his professional life. He’s Vice-President and CEO of The Duhamel Group and has coordinated tournaments and golf trips to many of the world’s premier destinations – yes, even to these heralded spots he writes about.