How to start playing golf in Moldova

Golf is still new in Moldova, which makes it a good time to start. You won’t be the only beginner, the facilities are uncrowded, and you can try the game without buying anything first. Here’s how to get going.

Take a lesson first

The quickest way to start is with a lesson, so you pick up a sound grip and swing from the beginning rather than unlearning bad habits later.

Dream Valley offers structured lesson packages, all with professional coaching:

• Golf tour, 1 hour (990 MDL). A taster covering the basics, the range and the short game.
• Discover golf, 3 hours (2,500 MDL). Theory, then an hour each on the range, the short game and putting.
• First step into golf, 5 hours (4,500 MDL). Adds a coached hour playing a real hole. A golf glove is included.
• Golf academy, 10 hours (7,650 MDL). A full course, including individual corrections and time on the course.
• Group session, 1.5 hours (750 MDL per person). Good for trying it with friends or colleagues.

Prices are from the club’s website when we last checked; see the courses page for the latest.

Merops Park is a low-key alternative if you’d rather hit balls informally. It’s a small three-hole course with a range and very basic facilities.

Hire before you buy

Don’t buy clubs until you know you’ll keep playing. Dream Valley hires them out: an iron for 50 MDL, a wood or driver for 150 MDL, or a full bag for 350 MDL.

When you’re ready to buy, Dream Valley has a pro shop selling golf clubs, gloves and balls.

Practise on the range

Between lessons, the driving range is where you’ll improve. At Dream Valley the range is covered, so you can practise in any weather. A bay costs 300 MDL an hour (VIP bays 400 MDL), and a basket of 48 balls is 150 MDL. There’s also a short-game area with a practice bunker. Short shots and putting are where beginners save the most strokes.

Basic etiquette

Golf has a few unwritten rules that matter more than any dress code:

• Safety first. Never stand near someone who is swinging, and only walk forward on the range when everyone has stopped hitting.
• Shout “fore” if your ball is heading towards anyone.
• Keep quiet and still while others are playing their shot.
• Keep up the pace. Be ready to play when it’s your turn.
• Look after the course. Rake bunkers after you’ve played out of them.

Your first visit

• Book ahead, especially for lessons and at weekends.
• Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, and flat shoes.
• Bring water, and sun protection in summer.
• Arrive a little early to sort out club hire and a basket of balls.

Most of all, don’t worry about looking like a beginner. Everyone was one once, and in Moldova most golfers started only recently. When you’re ready to play more, see our guide to the nearest full-size courses.