Every year since 1934, a ritual of spring takes place in Augusta, Georgia at the Augusta National Golf Club when the world’s best golfers vie for the coveted Green Jacket in the most celebrated of all golf tournaments, the Masters.

The Augusta National Golf Club is home to one of the most exclusive golf courses in the world. In addition to hosting the top players in the PGA on one of the most challenging courses in the US, it is a botanical beauty. The flowers and plants of the meticulously landscaped grounds are in full blooming splendor in early April and each hole is named after a tree or shrub that is nearby.

Another factor that makes this an elite tournament is that while tickets for the Masters are not uber-expensive, they are difficult to get. Tickets for tournament play days are only sold to patrons, but that membership list is closed. The patrons list does periodically accept waitlists though. Even tickets for practice rounds require making application over a year in advance to go into a pool for a random drawing. Accommodations in hotels and the rental of private homes during the Masters are equally scarce, so advance reservations are a must. The good news is that Covington Travel has the connections to still obtain both tickets and accommodations for the 2011 Masters April 4 – 10! (Note: accurate at time of publication; no guarantees at this late date!)

If you do go to the renowned tournament, there is a very strict code of conduct and admission badges will be confiscated from violators. Cell phones and all other electronic devices are not allowed, but you can check them at the main gate. Cameras are allowed on practice days, but not during competitive play. You cannot carry any purses, backpacks or folding chairs and alcohol, banners and weapons of any kind (even with a permit) are not allowed on the golf course grounds. Security doesn’t fool around, so be sure to play by the rules!

For golf lovers, attending the Masters Tournament is the pinnacle of spectator golf. If you want to attend this singular event, please contact Covington Travel.