Portugal Shine Bright at the 2024 World Golf Awards

The 11th annual World Golf Awards celebrated excellence in golf tourism, with Portugal earning top distinctions across multiple categories.The 11th annual World Golf Awards, held at the stunning Savoy Palace in Madeira, celebrated excellence in golf tourism, with Portugal earning top distinctions across multiple categories. As a beacon of global recognition, the ceremony brought together industry leaders and enthusiasts to honour the best in golf destinations, courses, and facilities.

Portugal: The World’s Best Golf Destination

Portugal reaffirmed its status as a premier golf destination by winning ‘World’s Best Golf Destination 2024’ and ‘Europe’s Best Golf Destination 2024’. The awards highlight was Terras da Comporta, crowned ‘World’s Best Golf Course’ and ‘Europe’s Best Golf Course’. With its impeccable design and eco-conscious approach, the course also received the title of ‘Europe’s Best Eco-Friendly Golf Facility’.

Madeira further elevated Portugal’s standing with multiple awards, including ‘World’s Best Emerging Golf Destination’. Palheiro Golf‘s ‘World’s Best Panoramic Clubhouse and Club de Golfe Santo Da Serra‘s dual titles for ‘World’s Best Par 3 Hole and ‘World’s Best Sustainable Water Capture Course System showcased Madeira’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in golf.

Those who received awards also included Quinta do Lago (World’s Best Golf Real Estate Venue 2024 and Europe’s Best Golf Venue 2024), one of Portugal’s most famous and chosen golf destinations, Ombria Golf Course (Europe’s Best New Golf Course 2024), and Palmares Ocean Living & Golf (Europe’s Best Golf Clubhouse 2024).

Spanish golf also received significant distinctions. La Hacienda Links Golf Resort won ‘World’s Best Halfway House’, emphasising its commitment to creating a seamless experience for golfers. INFINITUM Golf’s ‘Europe’s Best 9 Hole Golf Course and ‘Europe’s Best Golf Real Estate Venue highlighted its world-class facilities.

A Legacy of Excellence with Tee Times Golf Agency

For over 30 years, Tee Times Golf Agency has been at the forefront of golf tourism, offering unparalleled golf and travel packages to Portugal and Spain. Whether it’s visiting Portuguese’s lush fairways or Spaniard courses charm, Tee Times ensures golfers experience unforgettable golf holidays.

With these prestigious World Golf Awards cementing Portugal’s global appeal, there’s no better time to plan your next golf break. Trust Tee Times to craft a perfect journey through the finest golf destinations in the world.

Marina de Vilamoura: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence

Since its establishment in 1974, Marina de Vilamoura has stood as a pioneer in Portugal’s nautical scene. Located in the heart of the Algarve, it has grown to become the largest marina in the country, boasting 825 berths and earning international acclaim.

A leader in recreational yachting, Marina de Vilamoura has continuously evolved to meet market demands. Its state-of-the-art facilities accommodate vessels from 6 to 60 meters, ensuring top-tier service and hospitality for boat owners and visitors alike. The marina’s responsibility to sustainability has earned it accolades such as “International Superyacht Marina of the Year” and “International Sustainable Marina of the Year,” further solidifying its position as a world-class destination.

Over the decades, it has embraced innovation and sustainability, maintaining certifications such as ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 and achieving the prestigious Blue Flag and 5 Gold Anchors Platinum distinction from The Yacht Harbour Association.

Nova Marina Vilamoura

The Nova Marina Vilamoura marks the next chapter in this remarkable journey. Designed with a forward-thinking approach, the expansion represents a significant investment in enhancing the marina’s offerings while prioritizing sustainability. This modern development includes new berths, innovative amenities, and an array of supporting infrastructure, such as luxury hotels, dining establishments, and entertainment venues. Nova Marina positions Vilamoura as a premier hub for nautical tourism and lifestyle in the Algarve.

For golf fans, the Marina de Vilamoura adds immense value to Tee Times Golf Agency‘s packages. It is located amidst some of the finest golf courses in the Algarve and serves as a gateway to unforgettable Portugal golf holidays. Visitors can enjoy the perfect blend of leisure, luxury, and sport, with easy access to renowned designs like Vilamoura’s Old Course, Dom Pedro Laguna, and Victoria.

As the Marina de Vilamoura celebrates its 50th anniversary, it continues to exemplify excellence in service, innovation, and sustainability. Tee Times proudly includes this iconic marina in its golf holiday packages, inviting travellers to experience the best of the Algarve’s golf and nautical heritage. Here’s to 50 years of success and many more to come!

Photos by: Marina de Vilamoura.

Mark Your Calendars: IAGTO Reveals 2025 Event Lineup Across Three Continents

IAGTO has unveiled its schedule for global golf tourism conventions in 2025, featuring events in Vietnam, Spain, and the United States.The International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) has unveiled its schedule for global golf tourism conventions in 2025, featuring events in Vietnam, Spain, and the United States. These conventions aim to connect golf tour operators, resorts, courses, and tourism boards, fostering collaboration and growth within the industry.

Tee Times Golf Agency participated in the 2024 IAGTO European Convention (IEC) and the North America Golf Tourism Convention (NAC), reinforcing our position as a leader in the golf tourism industry. In addition to our dynamic participation in the Malaga and Michigan events, we showcased our complete golf holiday packages and our ability to connect with key players in the market.

The 11th Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) will take place in Danang, Vietnam, from April 2 to 4, 2025. AGTC is a key platform for professionals focusing on the Asian golf market, offering networking opportunities and insights into regional trends. Danang, renowned for its picturesque coastline and world-class golf courses, provides an ideal backdrop for this gathering.

Following AGTC, the 3rd IAGTO European Convention (IEC) will be held in Gran Canaria, Spain, from May 19-21, 2025. IEC concentrates on European and African golf destinations, bringing together industry stakeholders to discuss market developments and establish partnerships. Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes and esteemed golf facilities make it a fitting venue for this convention.

Concluding the series, the 16th North America Golf Tourism Convention (NAC) is scheduled for June 17-19, 2025, in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. NAC emphasises golf tourism within the Americas, providing a platform for suppliers and buyers to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborations. Birmingham, celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, offers a compelling setting for this event.

Peter Walton, Chief Executive of IAGTO, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to delivering productive and enjoyable conventions catering to golf destinations and outbound markets. He emphasised that each event is tailored to the specific needs of its region, attracting golf tour operators who specialise in those destinations. Walton also noted that appointments at these conventions are scheduled based on mutual agreement, ensuring valuable interactions between buyers and suppliers.

Registration for these conventions has been open to IAGTO members, with over 600 delegates signed up across all three events. This enthusiastic response underscores the industry’s eagerness to engage in these global gatherings. IAGTO continues to play a pivotal role in connecting golf tourism professionals, fostering growth, and promoting collaboration within the industry.

For more information on IAGTO’s upcoming conventions and membership details, interested parties can visit the organisation’s official website.

Tee Times IAGTO commitment

Through events like the IAGTO conventions, Tee Times Golf Agency continues to demonstrate our commitment to growth, innovation, and unparalleled customer service in the golf tourism sector.

Established in 1993, Tee Times has been synonymous with excellence in golf tourism, offering tailored packages that cater to every golfer’s dream. Whether you’re seeking the lush fairways of Portugal or the sun-kissed greens of Spain, Tee Times provides meticulously crafted experiences. Our services include seamless bookings for tee times, luxury accommodations, and exclusive access to some of Europe’s most prestigious golf courses designed to create unforgettable golf holidays.