I've been four times from the USA but likely never again (to play golf). For me, the golf was reason for going, but not the only experience I enjoyed. Just going out to eat, or to a pub, in a smallish GBI town, is so different and enjoyable. Speaking with local people, e.g., a totally soused caddie in a bar in Troon, some oil rig workers on their time off in Nairn (I think that was the place), accidentally getting into a theological discussion with a farmer in a pub in Portrush, and so on. Picking up some local history and sightseeing is key. If you and your buddies don't go beyond the golf, you're missing the point, I think. Take advantage of the things you can't find at home (per the Irishman on going to Myrtle Beach, Reply # 5 above).