Augusta, Georgia (The Masters) travel advice needed

[mkymsehi]

Aloha WISHers,

I'm looking for information on what cities are near Augusta, Georgia, that have reasonably priced hotels. I'm looking for a area within an hour's drive to Augusta National golf course.

I will be attending the Masters tournament on Wednesday, April 8, 2009. I will be there for the practice round and Par 3 contest.

I will fly into/out of Atlanta-Hartsfield, and drive to Augusta area.

Please let me know where you would recommend staying.

Mahalo!

[clarabelle]

I live in Augusta -have you started looking for hotels yet?
There are plenty of hotels here. Were you trying to get a little further out to make it cheaper?

[mkymsehi]

I live in Augusta -have you started looking for hotels yet?
There are plenty of hotels here. Were you trying to get a little further out to make it cheaper?

Hi Clarabelle,

Yes, cheaper is better for me. Right now I'm traveling solo, but a buddy may meet me there. We'll split the cost of the room, but looking in the $100-150 per night range.

I did a few searches on the internet. I think a hour or less travel distance will be good.

Really, all I need is a bed, shower, and bathroom. I don't need the 3 to 5 star hotels. Just something cheap, but not a dump! LOL.

I only have a Wednesday practice round ticket (once I send in my payment). I may try to find someone leaving the course on Tuesday or Thursday afternoon, and "rent" their ticket for the rest of the day. I've read where you can get it for $10-20. Any idea if this is true?

So do you go to the Masters each year? Or do you flee town?

Thanks for your response, and any advice you can provide me.

[clarabelle]

Thursday the actual tournament will have started and there is no way you will get a badge without paying BIG money.
Tuesday you may be able to get hooked up.

We haven't been in a long time -but we used to go to practice rounds occasionally. My husband has been to the actual tournament -but I have only been to par 3 and practice rounds. It is fun to see even if you are not a fan. The course is beautiful and it is nice to people watch.

I will go look in the phone book at hotels and get back with you.
Aiken SC and Thomson GA may be your best bet.

[clarabelle]

I am PMing you some hotel names to research

[mkymsehi]

I am PMing you some hotel names to research

Thanks Clarabelle,

I got your list, and will be checking them out. I really appreciate your help!

[mkymsehi]

Clarabelle,

What do you think about Sandersville. I found a Holiday Inn Express for about $85 a night. I realize it's about 60 miles away, but that's okay with me.

Everything else is $200+ a night! Yikes.

[clarabelle]

I have never been to Sandersville. Since it is not on the interstate it will not be very convenient. Did you try Washington GA?
I am trying to think of other towns along I-20

[clarabelle]

Actually looking at the Map I don't think Washington is much more convenient than Sandersville.

Madison or Greensboro might be worth looking into. They are more than an hour -but it would be all interstate.
Sandersville looks like a cute town -maybe it will be fun!

[mkymsehi]

Actually looking at the Map I don't think Washington is much more convenient than Sandersville.

Madison or Greensboro might be worth looking into. They are more than an hour -but it would be all interstate.
Sandersville looks like a cute town -maybe it will be fun!

Clarabelle,

I scored a great government rate at the Candlewood Suites, right there in Augusta, around the corner from Augusta National on Claussen Road. I think they missed blocking out discount rates, oh well, their mistake. Shhhhh (it was $80.00 a night).

Thanks for your help!

[clarabelle]

Good Job!
If you need restaurant tips -let me know!!