If you want to ask Travelin' Joe a question, e-mail him at askjoe@golf.com.

Hey Joe,
Three buddies and I have decided to go to Tampa for our annual golf trip. We've looked at World Woods, Innisbrook and TPC Tampa Bay, but it seems like there's a lot of golf in the area. What other courses would you recommend for a bunch of mid-handicappers?
Mike O' Malley
Chicago, Illinois

You won't go very wrong with those three venues, but there are some alternatives that deliver on value and playability, like Saddlebrook Resort ($100-$145; 813-973-1111, saddlebrookresort.com) and Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club ($79-$119; 352-588-9200, lakejovita.com). If you can secure your tee time at Saddlebrook 24 hours in advance, you'll pay just $100 bucks. Lake Jovita's South course sports 200 feet of elevation change, a rarity for Florida. Play after noon for slightly cheaper fees.

Dear Joe,
I'm going to Goodyear, Arizona for Spring Training. I'm looking to play nearby but pay under $100 a round. Any suggestions?
Jerry Ulman
Cleveland, Ohio

Your best bet here is Palm Valley's Palms Course (623-935-2500; palmvalleygolf.com). It's an Arthur Hills design and a good value at $84. The Lakes is a nifty par-62 Hale Irwin executive track that will run you $49-$58. It's no push-over, despite its length.

Another option is Estrella Mountain Golf Course ($32-$51; 623-932-3714, estrella-golf.com), a flat, county-owned track that offers desert-mountain vistas and a price tag that can't be beaten.

Photo: The Palms Course at Palm Valley Golf Club in Goodyear, Arizona.
Credit: Communication Links