Tee Times Golf Agency at the 15th IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention

Tee Times Golf Agency is set to take part in the 15th IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention (NAC), held at the Mountain Grand Lodge & Spa in Boyne Falls, Northern Michigan, from June 17-19, 2024. This prestigious event brings together key players in the golf tourism industry, including golf resorts, clubs, hotels, tourist boards, and other suppliers from the USA, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond.

The NAC is renowned for its highly structured format, where suppliers and buyers engage in pre-scheduled meetings over two days, fostering meaningful business relationships and networking opportunities. This year’s convention starts with a golf tournament across two of Northern Michigan’s premier courses, followed by a series of social functions, including a Welcome Reception and Farewell Evening function. Delegates will also enjoy buffet lunches and evening drinks at the IAGTO Bar, ensuring ample informal networking and discussion opportunities.

Northern Michigan, known for its exceptional golf offerings, particularly with Boyne Golf’s ten courses and two resorts, provides an ideal backdrop for the event. The timing in June is perfect for experiencing the region’s golf courses at their peak condition.

Tee Times Golf Agency, a proud IAGTO member since its founding in 1997, has consistently driven forward the golf tourism industry with a special focus on Portugal and Spain. Our participation in the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering growth and innovation in golf tourism, instilling confidence in our partners and clients.

As one of Europe’s leading golf travel agencies, our team specialises in offering top-tier golf and tourism packages, providing exceptional vacation experiences in Portugal and Spain. Our curated packages cater to golf enthusiasts seeking the best courses and luxurious accommodations, ensuring memorable and seamless holidays. The agency’s deep industry knowledge and extensive network enable us to deliver personalised services that meet the highest quality and customer satisfaction standards.

IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention program

Attendees began arriving on Wednesday, June 12 and participated in Fam Tours programs until June 15. The event schedule includes a Dinner for Buyers’ Golf Day participants at Grand Traverse Resort on June 15, followed by the Buyers’ Golf Day and NAC Tournament player check-in on June 16.

The first official day, June 17, starts with breakfast at Everett’s Restaurant, followed by the NAC Golf Tournament with a shotgun start at Bay Harbor and The Highlands. The day concludes with a Welcome Reception on the lawns of Mountain Grand Lodge. Convention Day 1 on June 18 will be held at the Civic Center Foyer, where activities resume through June 20. The complete program is available here.

We are poised to take full advantage of the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention, continuing to shape the future of golf tourism through strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives. Our commitment to excellence and passion for golf tourism ensure that we remain at the forefront of the industry, providing unparalleled experiences for golf travellers worldwide.

IAGTO Awards 2024: recognising the best in European golf tourism

The 24th edition of the exclusive annual IAGTO Awards, focusing on the European and African sectors, was recently announced at the IAGTO European Convention (IEC) in Malaga, Spain. These prestigious distinctions, determined by the votes of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) members, honour the exceptional service provided by golf courses, resorts, inbound operators, and golf destinations over the past Year. The 2024 recipients, including Madrid, Cadiz, La Cala Resort, and Dom Pedro Vilamoura Golf, come from Spain, Morocco, Northern Ireland, Bulgaria, Portugal, Greece, and Scotland.

During the Opening Address of the IEC, Peter Walton, Chief Executive of IAGTO, proudly announced the ten winners of these highly esteemed awards. Walton stated, “Golf tour operators responsible for 90% of all international golf tourism organised travel have once again focused worldwide attention on a handful of suppliers and destinations that delivered the best possible experience to their golf travelling clients over the past 12 months.” This global recognition underscores the influence and reach of the IAGTO Awards.

Madrid, Golf Destination of the Year European (City).

The Asia Pacific Awards were revealed in March, and the awards for North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean will be announced in June.

For over three decades, Tee Times Golf Agency has been a key player in offering the best golf and tourism packages for those seeking exceptional Portugal and Spain golf holidays. As a long-standing partner of IAGTO, Tee Times has played an active role in promoting golf tourism, contributing significantly to the industry.

La Cala Resort, Golf Resort of the Year for Spain.

IAGTO Awards winners of the year

We are thrilled to acknowledge this Year’s award winners, who are among our premier golf destinations: Madrid, as European City Golf Destination of the Year, known for its world-class golf courses and vibrant city life; Cadiz, as Southern European Golf Destination of the Year, renowned for its stunning coastal views and challenging golf courses; La Cala Resort, as Golf Resort of the Year for Spain, offering a unique combination of luxury and natural beauty; and Dom Pedro Vilamoura Golf, as Golf Resort of the Year for Portugal, a golfer’s paradise with its championship courses and top-notch facilities.

Dom Pedro Vilamoura Golf, Resort of the Year for Portugal.

Cádiz, Golf Destination of the Year for Central & Southern Europe.

Tee Times Golf Agency extends its congratulations to all the winners of the IAGTO Awards 2024 and expresses its sincere gratitude for their continued collaboration. We look forward to our ongoing partnership in providing outstanding services for golf enthusiasts worldwide.

Photos by: © IAGTO – Peter Ellegard

British Golf Show: promoting Algarve’s golf attractions

From May 17 to 18, Jorge Diogo, Director of Sales and Marketing at Tee Times Golf Agency, actively participated in the British Golf Show (South 2024) in London. In collaboration with Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa, Domes Lake Algarve, Autograph Collection, and Dom Pedro Hotels & Golf Collection, Tee Times Golf Agency showcased the attractions of Vilamoura and the Algarve as premier golf and tourism destinations.

The British Golf Show, organized in collaboration with the Professional Golfers Association (PGA), is a highlight on the golfing fairs calendar. The event, with its interactive elements, such as the opportunity to test skills on the driving range and simulators, was designed to make the audience feel engaged and part of the golfing community. It featured the latest and greatest from leading golf suppliers, emphasizing equipment, technology, and travel.

British Golf Show: a truly inclusive fair

The British Golf Show, a truly inclusive event, caters to everyone, from newcomers and seasoned players to industry professionals and families looking for a fun day out. The event aimed to expand the sport’s reach and draw in a broader audience while supporting the existing golf community, making the audience feel welcome and part of the larger golfing family.

This year, the show was co-located with The Elite Events – London, a distinctive lifestyle exhibition. Visitors enjoyed access to over 150 luxury lifestyle brands and more than 30 on-site experiences, including supercar test drives, helicopter flights, beauty and wellness treatments, and more.

Tee Times Golf Agency used this platform to connect with a diverse audience, promoting Vilamoura and the Algarve’s exceptional golf courses and luxurious accommodations for those looking for Portugal golf holidays. Our presence underscored the region’s status as a top golfing destination, attracting new enthusiasts and seasoned golfers alike.

Looking ahead, the British Golf Show (North 2024) will take place from July 5 to 6, promising another exciting showcase for the golfing world.