Every year golf magazines and websites come out with various lists that rank the top golf courses in the country. From year to year many of these golf courses don't change, but with so many new golf courses coming online it is only a matter of time before the big dogs of previous years fall to the younger pups. Determining what makes a golf course special can be a difficult task - everyone has their own opinion about what makes a golf course great.

Perhaps it is the region of the country the golf course is located in or perhaps the designer has a lot to do with it. Tom Fazio has more golf courses in the Top 100 lists than any other architect. Why do so many golfer consider him the ultimate golf course designer? In this series of articles we will examine some of the most famous golf courses in the world to see why golfers from all parts of the globe consider them great.

No conversation about great golf courses would be complete without talking about the Blue Course at the Doral Golf Resort and Spa. This golf course is located in Miami, Florida and annually hosts one of the most popular tournaments on the PGA Tour. Florida is home to more golf courses than any other state in America, and the Doral Resort stands out as one of the best in this state.

The Doral Resort features five championship golf courses - the Blue Monster being the most famous. Just as you drive through the gates of the property you know you are in for a treat. Coming up to the main building, guests valet their cars and their clubs are taken to the cart staging area behind the building. Players then walk through the massive lobby area and head toward the golf shop. This one of the most elegant buildings I have ever seen at a golf course.

The Blue Monster is one of those golf courses that challenges the player right from the start. This short par-5 has tree, bunkers and water and the best tee shot is to the left of the bunkers on the right-hand side of the fairway. South Florida tends to have very wet fairways so don't expect much roll on the ball here.

As golfers make their way around the golf course it becomes apparent that this is not your average golf course. There is so much water and sand players often feel they are at beach instead of a golf course. This golf course is one of the best conditioned facilities in South Florida. Although the golf course is difficult, it is also very fair. It doesn't overpower the golfer with length - it is only 7,100 yards from the back tees.

The true mantle of a good golf course is if it can be enjoyed by both high and low handicapped golfers. The Blue Monster certainly fits the bill here with its multiple sets of tees. Any golfer will be able to recreate some of the most memorable moments in golf history from the 18th hole.

The narrow landing area on this hole is bordered by trees on the right and a pond on the left where floats the famous fountain. From the back tees players will have to carry 270 yards to get over the pond on the left to leave the best angle to the green. Average golfers will want to aim to toward the right side of the fairway to avoid the water.

So many of the greatest golfers in history have been in a position to grasp victory or defeat on this famous hole. This hole alone would define any golf course as special, but realistically it is all the added touches at the Blue Monster that set this golf course apart. Starting in 2008, players will be able to take a caddy, which is included in the green fees, and be able to experience the golf course like the professionals.

If you have the inkling to play some great Florida golf, check out the Blue Monster at the Doral Resort and Spa.

The Saddlebrook Resort
The Saddlebrook Resort is located in Tampa, Florida just a short 30-minute drive from the Tampa airport. It is within driving distance of Busch Gardens, The Lowry Park Zoo, the Florida Aquarium, various beaches, and only 90 minutes from

Family Golf and Family Fun in the Florida Sun
Florida is known for two things: Disneyworld and more golf courses than any other state. Anyone who is planning a trip to golf would certainly have to consider spending some time in the Sunshine State. No matter what type of golf course you enjoy

Celebration Golf Club- Water Capital of the World
Celebration Golf Club is built among the dense forests and native wetlands of central Florida. It is highly likely that you will spot a gator as you play around this golf course. The main hazard on this golf course is water, water, water. In fact,