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.

2024 IAGTO European Convention: meeting with colleagues and friends

Four remarkable days in Malaga. With the same enthusiasm our team brings to their daily work, Tee Times Golf Agency participated in the 2024 IAGTO European Convention (IEC), a testament to our unwavering commitment to the golf tourism market.

Carlos Ferreira, CEO and founder of Tee Times, and Jorge Diogo, Director of Sales and Marketing, represented the agency at the convention. Held from May 13-15 on the Costa del Sol, this event is recognized as the premier golf tourism trade meeting in Europe, attracting around 750 delegates from across the globe.

The 2024 IAGTO European Convention, held at the FYCMA Exhibition Centre, is renowned for its innovative approach to networking, offering two days of pre-scheduled 20-minute meetings. Unlike traditional forced appointments, this unique format allowed parties to connect with key stakeholders and potential partners more organically and productively, underscoring the value of the event.

IAGTO European Convention Golf Tournament

Ferreira and Diogo’s active participation extended beyond the meeting rooms, demonstrating Tee Times Golf Agency’s deep-rooted passion for golf. They not only participated in the IEC Golf Tournament, showcasing their skills, but also finished third in the contest played in Real Guadalhorce on a team with Domingo Gavira and Ignácio Sanchez, a testament to our team’s talent and dedication.

The Welcome Cocktail Receptions on May 13 and the IEC Celebration Dinner on May 14 offered additional avenues for networking in a more relaxed setting. These events, filled with engaging conversations and shared experiences, further solidified relationships with peers and potential clients, demonstrating our commitment to building strong and lasting connections in the industry.

The 2024 IAGTO European Convention in Malaga was a key event for Tee Times Golf Agency. It highlighted the company’s active engagement and influential presence in the golf tourism market, offering since 1993 incredible packages and breaks for those looking for their best Portugal and Spain golf holidays.