Golf is a sport with an illustrious pedigree. From the "home of golf," the Royal and Ancient St. Andrews, it has migrated its Scottish homeland to the globe's most fashionable corners. Defined by a distinctive and quirky dress code, golf is as much about good-natured wagering that accompanies each round. For this very reason, it attracts socialites, captains of industry, and prominent celebrities looking to relax in sylvan surroundings. Access to clubs is highly coveted for the prestige it grants- as well as the sporting pleasures. But readers can bypass the pesky membership committees as they embark on an illustrated tour of the world's finest courses and clubhouses- not to mention glimpses of the stylish players who consider the fairways "a home away from home."

By Christian Chensvold