The IAGTO European Convention (IEC), a continental meeting organized by the international association of golf operators, was held on Monday. More than 800 professionals of the golf segment and about 300 buyers have gathered in Malaga for this European convention. Turismo Costa del Sol was one of the two main sponsors, together with Turismo de Andalucía, and had the opportunity to meet with 35 tour operators and specialized golf media during the two days of meetings.
In addition, Turismo Costa del Sol has participated in a press conference at the official presentation of the IAGTO European Convention, in which he took the opportunity to announce a new edition of the Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España, which will take place on the course of the Real Club de Golf Las Brisas. This highly anticipated event marks a milestone in the world of golf, consolidating the role of the Costa del Sol as a leading destination in this sport.
The Costa del Sol stands as a benchmark in the world of golf, with more than 70 courses that make it the continental European destination with the highest concentration of golf courses. The province of Malaga leads this offer, representing 6.7% of the total number of members and over 18,000 players. With 67% of the total number of golf courses in Andalusia, distributed in 16 municipalities, the “Costa del Golf” demonstrates its importance in sustainable tourism.
During the press conference, reference was made to the contribution of golf to the sustainability of the destination and to the management of seasonality, as it attracts visitors during the low season months. In addition, the demand profile of the golfer is medium-high level, with a higher expenditure than the average visitor, which benefits the destination economically.
The data speaks for itself: golfers give an average rating of 9.24 out of 10 and 98.7% recommend the Costa del Golf destination. The promotion of women’s golf stands out as particularly interesting, as female golfers tend to spend more and enjoy a wider complementary offer.
The coverage planned for the Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España 2023 will reach more than 60 countries and 300 million homes, offering a unique opportunity to showcase the high-level offer and equipment of the Costa del Golf on the international stage. This event reaffirms Turismo Costa del Sol’s commitment to golf as a tourism product, with a personalized offer that promotes visitor loyalty.
Golf continues to be a segment with great potential for growth and benefits for the Costa del Sol, consolidating its position as a leading destination in this sport. Esperanza Gonzalez, CEO of Costa del Sol Tourism has commented outside the event that “the province of Malaga is proud of its high quality infrastructure, its natural environment and professional level are decisive ingredients to host renowned events such as the Women’s Open Golf and help us establish ourselves as a top golf destination worldwide”.
During the presentation, IAGTO also announced that this European golf convention will be held every two years in the region of Andalusia.
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