Dan Fitzpatrick of Worldwide Golf Vacations in Reading, which sells golf packages for about 120 resorts, has seen a downturn in business this year. ‘‘It’s all based on how customers perceive the economic climate,’’ Fitzpatrick said. ‘‘People have to feel confident about making the investment in their health and well-being by taking a golf vacation.’’ Fitzpatrick also said that the resorts his company works with are less likely to discount rates than they are to add value, by offering daily breakfast or unlimited golf. But there are savings to be had, from traditional golf hotbeds such as Myrtle Beach, S.C., (pictured) to marquee resorts.

— Ron Driscoll, Globe Staff