Tourism Northern Ireland’s Post

The Golf Tourism Market in Europe is experiencing significant growth, underpinned by a rich tradition of golf and an increase in golfing infrastructure. The market is forecasted to grow from US$ 3,333.7 million in 2023 to around US$ 6,865.0 million by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5%. This growth is attributed to various factors, including the increase in young golfers and the emphasis on enhancing golf infrastructure. Spain, the United Kingdom, and Germany are pivotal in this market, with Spain leading due to its extensive golf courses that cater to all levels of players, offering more affordable green fees compared to other European nations. The United Kingdom's variety of golf courses and rich cultural and scenic offerings continue to support its strong market presence. Meanwhile, Germany's accessible location and scenic beauty, combined with well-developed tourism infrastructure, make it an attractive destination for golf tourists. The demographics reveal that the age group of 46 to 55 years is a significant consumer in the European golf tourism market, likely due to financial stability, experience, and interest in golf. Corporate groups also represent a major segment, utilizing golf tourism for team-building activities and contributing significantly to market growth. The European golf tourism sector's expansion is driven by strategic marketing efforts, development of unique golf courses, and integration of golf with cultural and wellness experiences. Despite challenges like the elite nature of golf and seasonal variations, the industry's evolution is marked by innovative packages and sustainable practices In summary, the European Golf Tourism Market is on a robust growth trajectory, benefiting from a combination of rich golfing heritage, diverse offerings, and strategic market initiatives that cater to a wide range of golf enthusiasts.

Golf's built-in outdoor social distancing helped fuel a boom in participation in 2021 that continues today. In fact, experts are saying that golf tourism is expected to continue to grow for years, both in well-known golf locations such as Scotland and new courses in the Middle East and Asia.

🏌️♂️🇵🇹 Portugal: A Rising Star in the World of Golf 🌟 Golf enthusiasts, it's time to turn our gaze towards Portugal, a country that's rapidly becoming a premier destination for the sport. With its rich history, where legends like Henry Cotton have left their mark, Portugal offers an unparalleled golfing experience that combines the charm of its cultural heritage with the innovation of modern course design. In the 1960s, Cotton introduced Penina, the Algarve's first golf course, setting the stage for what would become one of Europe's most sought-after golfing destinations. Fast forward to today, and the narrative of golf in Portugal has evolved significantly. It's no longer just about the Algarve; areas like Comporta and the Lisbon region are making waves with their unique courses that blend natural beauty with challenging play. David McLay Kidd, the architect behind the famous Bandon Dunes, has brought his expertise to Comporta, offering the Dunas Course at Terras da Comporta. This course exemplifies modern golfing destinations with its minimalist design, broad fairways, and stunning landscapes. Meanwhile, the Lisbon area has matured into a golfing haven with notable courses like Oitavos Dunes and West Cliffs, which offer breathtaking ocean views and a touch of links-style play. What sets Portugal apart is not just the quality of its courses but also the value it offers. With an average of 25,739 rounds per course annually and fees that are a fraction of what one might pay elsewhere, Portugal stands out as a destination that marries quality with accessibility. For American golfers looking for a new destination or anyone seeking to experience golf in a country that offers warm weather, welcoming locals, and a rich cultural backdrop, Portugal is a compelling choice. Imagine teeing off in a place where the sea whispers to you from the cliffs and history greets you at every corner. That's the magic of golfing in Portugal. So, whether you're planning your next golf trip or simply dreaming of new adventures, consider Portugal. It's a country where every swing tells a story, and every course offers a new discovery. Let's explore the beauty and challenge of Portuguese golf together. 🏌️♀️🌊 #GolfTourismPortugal #GolfingDestination #LuxuryGolf #GolfLifestyle #DiscoverPortugal #TravelPortugal #GolfInPortugal #GolfTravel #PortugueseGolfCourses #GolfDestinations #Portugal https://lnkd.in/daygX9TH

Golf growing just not at public and private courses but as a form of golf tourism!!

Carrying your own golf clubs on your travels? Here's why renting might be the hole-in-one solution you didn't know you needed: 1. Farewell Exorbitant Airline Fees: Say goodbye to airlines charging a fortune for oversized luggage. With costs often ranging from £50 to £150 per trip, renting golf clubs can save frequent travellers a significant sum. 2. Avoid the Risk of Damage: Your precious golf clubs, even with the best packaging, stand a risk of damage during transit. Mishandling by baggage services could lead to expensive repairs or replacements, and nobody wants to play with damaged equipment. 3. Say Goodbye to Bulky Baggage: Dodging through airport crowds while dragging a bulky golf bag isn't anyone's idea of fun. It necessitates extra check-in time, baggage claim waits, and the physical strain can certainly dampen your travel spirit. 4. Quality and Convenience: Services like ClubsToHire provide access to the latest club models that are meticulously maintained. Not only does this guarantee a high-quality game, but it also eliminates the inconvenience of transporting your own clubs. 5. Freedom and Flexibility: Rental services at popular golf destinations offer the liberty of selecting clubs that complement the specific course you’re playing. This hassle-free solution improves the overall golfing experience, allowing you to travel light while enjoying your favourite sport. Rethinking your travel strategy? Consider renting golf clubs on your next trip and experience a smooth, enhanced, and hassle-free golfing adventure. ⛳ Does the convenience of renting outweigh the comfort of your own clubs? #GolfTravel #ClubRentals

The Algarve shines once again as a golf destination, with golf operators across the globe selecting the Vilamoura resort as their favourite for “outstanding customer service”. ___ #algarvenews #essentialalgarve #algarveportugal #portugal #visitalgarve #visitportugal #algarvegolf #golflovers #golfers #golftravel #portugalgolf #golfresorts #luxurytravel #travel (Co-financiamento: Cresc Algarve 2020, Portugal 2020 e União Europeia através do Fundo Europeu de Desenvolvimento Regional)

Few Canadian #tourism brands — let alone golf brands — have been as successful as Cabot. Its newest property, Cabot Citrus Farms, punctuates its stature by transforming a once-renowned club into a luxury resort destination with spectacular golf experiences. Check my feature article on Vacay.ca that explains why golfers will be drawn to Cabot's first U.S. location, which is an hour's drive north of Tampa. https://lnkd.in/eduJAti5

Just in: Asia Specials: The Bay of Lights: Home to Cambodia’s Premiere USGA-Certified Waterfront Golf Course by Greg Norman: SIHANOUKVILLE, CAMBODIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 January 2024 – In a move set to redefine golfing in Southeast Asia, the Bay of Lights development announces the Bay 19 Golf Course commencement. This $41 million investment, part of a $16 billion township project, opens a new chapter in Cambodian golf and marks a bold statement in luxury sports and leisure. Bay 19 Golf Official Ground Breaking The project’s significance is highlighted by the attendance of high-profile government officials at its groundbreaking ceremony. The Guests of Honor included His Excellency Governor Kuoch Chamroeun of the Sihanoukville Provincial Office and representative from the Ministry of Tourism, His Excellency Seng Meng Hong, alongside special guests His Excellency Senior Minister Ly Thuch and His Excellency Ambassador Santo Darmosumarto of the Republic of Indonesia, signaling strong governmental support and international interest. Golfing Experience by the Sea Bay 19 Golf Course, from Cambodia’s traditional inland links, emerges as a destination. As the first USGA-certified seaside course in the country, it offers a blend of scenic beauty and championship standards. This coastal adventure goes beyond a typical round of golf, immersing players in an environment, setting Bay 19 apart in the world of golf. More Than Just Golf: A Coastal Destination Envisioned as a golfing paradise, Bay 19 incorporates a driving range within an exclusive resort complex. This haven will feature four four-star hotels, three five to six-star resorts, and four scenic walkways, all designed to provide a coastal experience directly connected to the golf course. This makes Bay 19 not just a destination for golfers but a retreat for all visitors. Timeline and Future Prospects The initial phase, featuring the driving range, is set to open by Q3 2025, with the full 18-hole course golfers by 2027. The entire development is on track for completion by 2029, Bay 19 becomes a for golfing and leisure in the Indochina region. A Call to Golf Enthusiasts and Investors Bay 19 Golf represents an opportunity for regional golf enthusiasts and potential investors. Its coastal golfing experience, combined with amenities and strong governmental endorsement, positions Bay 19 as a destination for investment and leisure. This development is not just a game-changer for Cambodia but a beacon of golfing excellence in Southeast Asia. Hashtag: #CanopySandsDevelopment The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. via The Bay of Lights: Home to Cambodia’s Premiere USGA-Certified Waterfront Golf Course by Greg Norman

Buyers of golf resort real estate are younger and acting more decisively, according to new research. They are also prepared to pay on average 19% more to live inside a golf resort than outside, and a further average premium of 16.5% to have a view of the course. These are the findings of the latest study conducted by European Tour Destinations, a network of world-class golf venues, and explained in a new multimedia feature: A Changing Landscape: Golf Real Estate in 2024. Sandra Ruttle, European Tour Destinations’ real estate consultant, said: “We felt it was the right time to conduct this new study to understand the market post-pandemic. “Having undertaken similar research in 2018, it made sense to update our earlier findings and get a clearer picture of the current golf property market, premiums, buyer profiles and any new sector trends.” The report, based on the completed sales of 138 plots, villas, townhouses and apartments during 2023, gives a clear picture of the market and highlights the shifts in consumer behaviour. It also reveals the sales and marketing tools driving success for venues in the network. “It’s heartening that real estate within European Tour Destinations resorts still commands higher prices than equivalent homes outside the venues,” continued Ruttle. “This demonstrates our venues’ determination to stay ahead of the curve and deliver services and value that outstrip the local competition. “Other insights from this research include the average age of buyers, which is now in the early fifties, down from around retirement age – something that can be attributed to rising wealth in younger people and the trend for working from home. “And they are making decisions quicker. In the past, it would take typically three to four visits before buying; now it’s one or two visits for the vast majority of sales, with an average buying period of 12 weeks from initial contact to purchase completion.” A Changing Landscape: Golf Real Estate in 2024 also shares insights from Camiral Golf & Wellness in Catalonia, Pirin Golf & Country Club, Bulgaria, Estonian Golf & Country Club and Quinta do Lago in Portugal.

The Advantages of Having Your Golf Tour Professionally Arranged Embarking on a golf tour is a dream come true for many golfers. The opportunity to play on renowned courses, experience breathtaking landscapes & immerse yourself in the sport you love is truly an unforgettable experience. However, planning a golf tour can be a time-consuming & intricate task, involving countless details & arrangements. This is where the value of having someone arrange all the logistics for you becomes evident. We possess extensive knowledge of the Victorian golfing landscape. We have a deep understanding of renowned courses, hidden gems & the best times to visit. Our expertise allows us to craft a customized itinerary tailored to your preferences, ensuring that you make the most of your golfing adventure. By relying on our local knowledge, you can discover courses you might never have found on your own & enjoy an unparalleled golfing experience. Planning a golf tour requires meticulous attention to detail, from selecting the right courses, accommodation, arranging transportation & managing tee times. This process can be time-consuming & stressful, particularly for those who have limited experience in organizing such trips. By entrusting the planning to us, you can save valuable time & eliminate the stress associated with coordinating all aspects of your journey. We have established relationships with various courses, clubs & accommodations, providing opportunities that may not be available to individual golfers. From securing coveted tee times at prestigious courses to lessons with renowned golf instructors, we can unlock doors that would otherwise remain closed. Every golfer has unique preferences & expectations when it comes to their golf tour. We understand this & strive to create a experience that aligns with your specific desires. Whether you prefer a golf-focused itinerary, or a mix of golf & leisure activities, we work closely with you to curate a tour that meets your needs. Our attention to detail ensures that every aspect of your journey, from accommodations to dining options, is aligned with your preferences. During your golf tour, unexpected situations may arise, such as weather disruptions or last-minute changes in plans. Having one of our tour organizers by your side provides you with a valuable support system. We are handle unforeseen circumstances swiftly & efficiently, minimizing any disruptions to your experience & ensuring peace of mind. Embarking on a golf tour is a remarkable experience that allows golfers to indulge in their passion in breathtaking locations. By entrusting the arrangements to professionals, you can elevate your journey to new heights. With our expertise, local knowledge & ability to handle all the logistics, you can focus on what matters most – playing your best golf & creating lasting memories. So, consider the advantages of having us arrange all the details for you & make your next golf tour an unforgettable one.