I like a course that lets you play golf. By that I mean it gives you opportunities for recovery shots. It may mean that you are punching or even chipping out from under a tree, or hacking out of 3" rough, but you still have a chance to swing the club and save something from the hole. I dislike a course where every errant shot is out of play, either in water or OB. That isn't to say that a course has to be dry and open. My home course has water in play on 7 holes, but most of those do offer some sort of bailout if that shot seems to be the best option. I don't mind heavy rough or tree lined fairways, as there should be some penalty for a poor shot, but there should also be chances for recovery shots too. I agree with Nicklaus philosophy that hazards should be generally visible from the tee so that the player can make an intelligent club and shot choice. There shouldn't be any shocking surprises. I consider courses that are full of invisible hazards and blind tee shots to be tricked up and gimmicky... all that's missing is the windmill. They are the product of an unimaginative architect.... he should go back to designing putt-putt courses. I just want to be able to play golf, and not always be dropping and adding penalty strokes.