A new study of the habits of European golfers reveals that Spain continues to be the top tourist destination for travelers from the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Scandinavia. More than 28% of those surveyed played golf in our country during the last 12 months.
These findings are part of a new document entitled “European Spotlight on Golf Tourism to Spain” which was commissioned by Reed Travel Exhibitions, organizers of IGTM (to be held November 11-14, 2013 on the Costa Daurada), and prepared by SPORTS MARKETING SURVEYS INC.
Of the 28.5% of golfers who traveled to Spain to play golf, 12.7% visited the Costa del Sol, 3.9% went to the Costa Brava, 3.2% went to the Canary Islands and 8.7% went to other areas.
The study also revealed the popularity of other destinations; 17% visited Portugal, 16.1% traveled to Great Britain and Ireland, 7.5% booked trips to Turkey, 7.1% went to France and 6.9% crossed the pond to the United States.
Among the most noteworthy data from this study are the following:
– The average duration of a golf trip to Spain is seven nights.
– Tourists traveling to Spain tend to stay in four- and five-star establishments.
– Golf tourists spend between 170 € (British golfers) and 230 € (Scandinavians) per day.
– Golfers usually go out to play five or six rounds during each golf trip.
– Over the course of a week’s vacation, golfers play four different Spanish courses.
The study also reveals that the nationality of the golfer influences the region they choose; the British and Scandinavians prefer the Costa del Sol, the French tend to opt for the Costa Brava and the Germans travel to all regions, including the Canary Islands.
“This latest study demonstrates that Spain continues to lead the European golf tourism industry and illustrates why thousands of golfers continue to prefer its regions,” explains Peter Grimster, IGTM show director. “Among the key factors that put Spain ahead of its rivals are the standard and diversity of its golf courses, the high quality of its accommodation and the good weather all year round.”
The reputation as a golf destination of the Costa Daurada, which is hosting this year’s IGTM 2013, is growing rapidly. Three years ago, international golfers booked less than 2% of the rounds played on the Costa Daurada and that percentage has risen to 30% and continues to grow.
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