I think that visitors should thank their lucky stars they get to play these world class courses for what is often a reasonable green fee compared to what folks have to go through and pay in the US. In any case, it is very rare that visitors have any business playing medal tees (let alone championship tees) - certainly at the championship courses or even the second tier championship courses. I guarantee you that if the back tees on the tourista trail were opened up to all, play would be slowed down. I know I don't want guys stepping back at Burnham - much of the time even in comps. If I were in charge of a club like this I may make an exception for players who asked permission in advance, have a proven handicap of scratch, are willing to play as a 2 ball and not during a time when members could remotely be inconvenienced just in case the visitors have vanity caps (all together too common). This may sound harsh, but if folks are honest with themselves, these rules really do them a favour.
Ciao
I would have to agree for the most part.
I have had many enjoyable rounds overseas from the yellow tees (and have been invited to play the whites and even the backs on several occasions)
If unescorted by a member, I tend to politely decline as I do not like to draw attention from members that might cause grief for the host pro or secretary.
I don't think the "back tees" should be available-and certainly no new ones built.
However, it would seem to me with many clubs operating under a business model of visitor revenue being a significant part of revenues, it would seem that visitors should be allowed to at least play from the same tees that members are playing on that particular day.(assuming they have the appropriate documented handicaps)
If this requires more tee rotation from the club to avoid wear (i.e. rotating portions of the yellow tees into play to preserve turf) so be it.