GOLFERS prefer the flexibility of half-board hotel packages to all-inclusive deals, new research for International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) revealed.
The survey, commissioned by Reed Travel Exhibitions, organisers of IGTM (November 12-15, 2012, Algarve, Portugal), is based on responses from more than 9,500 regular golfers in Europe’s four largest golf markets – UK & Ireland (UK&I), Scandinavia, Germany and France.
The research found that half-board accommodation was the number one choice for golfers from Germany (35.5 per cent), Scandinavia (32.9 per cent) and UK&I (28.3 per cent). However, French golfers said they preferred all-inclusive deals (27.7 per cent), the second choice of golfers in the other three markets.
The research, produced by Sports Marketing Surveys Inc also highlighted other variations including : German golfers are the most likely to stay in five-star accommodation (36.5 per cent), followed by French golfers (24 per cent), British and Irish (22.8 per cent) and Scandinavians (18.4 per cent).
IGTM exhibition manager, Peter Grimster, said: “While it is interesting that we have seen a rise in all-inclusive golf packages, especially in destinations such as Belek, Turkey, half-board hotel packages remain prevalent in Europe.
“Destinations and hotels should take note of different customers’ wants and needs. While it is well documented that golf tourists spend more on average than typical leisure tourists, a variety of accommodation and price points are required depending on which regional markets a destination is targeting.”
The next edition of this global event for golf tourism suppliers, buyers and media will take place November 11-14, 2013, at one of Europe’s most vibrant new golfing destinations, LumineMediterránea Beach & Golf Community.
Located one hour south of Barcelona and just 15 minutes from Barcelona Reus airport, the Costa Daurada region will showcase its 240 kms of sandy beaches, quiet villages and stunning countryside, as well as its cultural and historic attractions, first-class culinary offering and, of course, its luxurious golf and leisure resorts.
“Spain has been a popular venue for IGTM over the years, however this will be the first time it will be held in the North Eastern region of the country,” commented Grimster.
“Over the past couple of years, Costa Daurada has embarked on a focused drive to establish Spain’s ‘Golden Coast’ as an emerging golf destination, as, we believe, it has the potential of becoming one of Europe’s premier golfing hubs.”