Mac
It is always refreshing to read you post, you add that little thing that at times is so lacking on this site That is of actually asking questions and more importantly listening to the response prior to making any further comment. You allow the conversation to develop examining all the details in the process. As I said, a breath of fresh air.
As for Tom’s comment re Scotland, I would certainly endorse it but I would suggest that if you travel over again, do not cram in too much golf, all that does is dull the memory of each and every course experience. Instead, take three weeks and allow at least one or two day between games. By all means visit courses, make notes and obtain their details, scorecards etc, plan them in or dismiss them for any future trip.
I can’t remember if you have been to Prestwick, but that’s a must and take away with you the old/new course plans, then visit Prestwick St Nicholas just up the read, this club did share Prestwick course for the first 15-20 years and have the same designer C Hunter. As M G said play Machrie and I would include Machrihanish, you loved Askernish so you may find it of interest.
Golf is a great game and it’s even more enjoyable if approached from a relaxed fresh state of mind and body. I understand time is short, travel and hotels are not cheap but if travelling with the wife and/or family then it’s a must that you ENJOY your trip, but be totally awake to appreciate it. Many cram too much into their short stay (understandable) and IMHO do not come away with a real deep feeling of satisfaction or contentment. Play the course twice in a day, experience the real nature of each course and environment, noticing the subtle changes even in the way the different AM/PM light has upon your ability to read/understand the course. Savour the moments, would you go to an expensive Restaurant but leave after only half way through, yet still paying for the whole meal. Your taste buds deserve spoiling from time to time, so does your golfing self.
Thanks for your many interesting posts.
Melvyn