Tee Times Golf Agency at the 15th IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention

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Tee Times Golf Agency is set to take part in the 15th IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention (NAC), held at the Mountain Grand Lodge & Spa in Boyne Falls, Northern Michigan, from June 17-19, 2024. This prestigious event brings together key players in the golf tourism industry, including golf resorts, clubs, hotels, tourist boards, and other suppliers from the USA, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond.

The NAC is renowned for its highly structured format, where suppliers and buyers engage in pre-scheduled meetings over two days, fostering meaningful business relationships and networking opportunities. This year’s convention starts with a golf tournament across two of Northern Michigan’s premier courses, followed by a series of social functions, including a Welcome Reception and Farewell Evening function. Delegates will also enjoy buffet lunches and evening drinks at the IAGTO Bar, ensuring ample informal networking and discussion opportunities.

Northern Michigan, known for its exceptional golf offerings, particularly with Boyne Golf’s ten courses and two resorts, provides an ideal backdrop for the event. The timing in June is perfect for experiencing the region’s golf courses at their peak condition.

Tee Times Golf Agency, a proud IAGTO member since its founding in 1997, has consistently driven forward the golf tourism industry with a special focus on Portugal and Spain. Our participation in the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering growth and innovation in golf tourism, instilling confidence in our partners and clients.

As one of Europe’s leading golf travel agencies, our team specialises in offering top-tier golf and tourism packages, providing exceptional vacation experiences in Portugal and Spain. Our curated packages cater to golf enthusiasts seeking the best courses and luxurious accommodations, ensuring memorable and seamless holidays. The agency’s deep industry knowledge and extensive network enable us to deliver personalised services that meet the highest quality and customer satisfaction standards.

IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention program

Attendees began arriving on Wednesday, June 12 and participated in Fam Tours programs until June 15. The event schedule includes a Dinner for Buyers’ Golf Day participants at Grand Traverse Resort on June 15, followed by the Buyers’ Golf Day and NAC Tournament player check-in on June 16.

The first official day, June 17, starts with breakfast at Everett’s Restaurant, followed by the NAC Golf Tournament with a shotgun start at Bay Harbor and The Highlands. The day concludes with a Welcome Reception on the lawns of Mountain Grand Lodge. Convention Day 1 on June 18 will be held at the Civic Center Foyer, where activities resume through June 20. The complete program is available here.

We are poised to take full advantage of the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention, continuing to shape the future of golf tourism through strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives. Our commitment to excellence and passion for golf tourism ensure that we remain at the forefront of the industry, providing unparalleled experiences for golf travellers worldwide.

Porto Santo Golfe: a tribute to natural beauty and sporting excellence

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Nestled in the heart of the enchanting island of Porto Santo, part of the Madeira archipelago, lies a golfer's paradise – the Porto Santo Golfe.

Nestled in the heart of the enchanting island of Porto Santo, part of the Madeira archipelago, lies a golfer’s paradise – the Porto Santo Golfe. This premier golfing destination stretches across the island, offering breathtaking views from the dune-rolling beach to the dramatic basalt cliffs, creating a perfect blend of natural beauty and a challenging game.

Designed by the legendary Spanish golfer Severiano Ballesteros, who passed away on May 7, 2011, after a valiant fight against cancer, Porto Santo Golfe is a testament to his genius and passion for the sport. Ballesteros, a revered figure in the golfing world, meticulously crafted this course to harmonize with the island’s natural landscape, ensuring minimal environmental impact while providing a world-class golfing experience.

Porto Santo Golfe magic

Opened in October 2004, the Porto Santo Golfe quickly garnered acclaim, culminating in its selection as the 2009 Madeira Islands Open host venue. The course spans an impressive 6,434 meters and comprises 18 holes, offering golfers a serene yet challenging environment. The unique layout features two distinct zones: the South and North.

The South Course, designed in the American tradition, is spotted with tranquil lakes and demands a long, precise game. It provides golfers with intricate challenges, making it a favourite among those who enjoy a strategic approach to the sport. In contrast, the North Course runs along spectacular cliff tops, offering a test of skill and awe-inspiring views of the wild coastline and the turquoise waters below.

In addition to the main courses, Porto Santo Golfe boasts a nine-hole pitch-and-putt course of par three holes, ideal for honing precision shots and short-game techniques. A state-of-the-art driving range further complements the training facilities, catering to beginners and seasoned professionals looking to refine their skills.

The Porto Santo Golfe clubhouse is a modern masterpiece, seamlessly blending into the surrounding landscape. Constructed with dry-stone walling and natural wood and furnished with stylish wicker furniture, the clubhouse offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Golfers can relax and enjoy the amenities, which include a bar restaurant, a pro shop, and well-equipped locker rooms.

At Tee Times Golf Agency, we have incredible packages and offers for those looking for their best Portugal golf holidays. And undoubtedly, Porto Santo Golfe is one of our finest ones.

The Madeira Archipelago

Porto Santo is the second inhabited island in the Madeira archipelago, located in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 500 kilometres from the African coast and 1,000 kilometres from Europe. Discovered in 1418 by Portuguese navigators, this island paradise is renowned for its hospitality, mild climate year-round, and stunning landscapes.

The island’s main attraction is its 9-kilometre-long beach of fine golden sand bathed by turquoise waters. This beach offers picturesque beauty and boasts therapeutic properties due to its unique calcium carbonate composition in calcite, making it a perfect destination for health and wellness.

Beyond the beach, Porto Santo’s charm extends to its historical and cultural sites, such as the Casa Museu, the former Christopher Columbus residence in Vila Baleira. The island’s unspoiled landscapes are ideal for exploring on foot or by bicycle, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in its natural splendour.

The safety, friendliness, and natural beauty of Porto Santo make it a privileged spot among similar destinations. For golfers, Porto Santo stands out as a crown jewel, offering an unparalleled experience that combines the artistry of Severiano Ballesteros’s design with the island’s breathtaking environment. Whether you are a professional golfer or a passionate amateur, a visit to Porto Santo Golfe promises a memorable and rewarding experience.

Palmares Ocean Living & Golf: a perfect blend of nature and luxury

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Palmares Ocean Living & Golf, located in the stunning Algarve region of Portugal, is a testament to visionary development, combining natural beauty with luxurious living. The history of Palmares is rich and varied, beginning in 1975 when a Portuguese family first established a golf course on the site. Over the years, the resort has evolved significantly. In 2001, Sonae, a major Portuguese company, acquired Palmares, and in 2003, it was purchased by Onyria Golf Resorts. The turning point came in 2017 when Kronos Homes and an international investment fund took over, marking the beginning of Palmares’ transformation into a premier resort. By the end of 2023, Arrow Global took the helm, further solidifying its status as a luxury destination.

Palmares Ocean: harmony between golf and nature

Palmares Ocean is uniquely positioned within a large natural amphitheatre, offering spectacular sea views from every resort corner. The development has been meticulously planned to ensure a low construction density, preserving the natural landscape and enhancing the harmony between the golf course and the ocean. The architecture is state-of-the-art, with strict construction parameters to protect sea views, allowing each villa or apartment to benefit from the stunning scenery. The resort includes a luxury beach, golf, and tourism area, featuring a 5-star boutique hotel, ensuring a comprehensive luxury living experience.

A golfer’s paradise

The Palmares Golf course is a masterpiece designed by the renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. It features three 9-hole courses that can be played in any sequence, providing a diverse golfing experience each time. With its parkland character, The Alvor course offers mature trees and beautiful views of the Monchique hills. The Lagos course features two lakes and transitions into expansive dune lands, while The Praia course offers a seaside landscape with dunes and a strong uphill par-5 closing hole. Opened in 2011, the course has matured beautifully, offering challenges and pleasures for international tournament players and casual golfers.

Al Sud Restaurant: a gastronomic delight

Nestled within the resort’s Clubhouse, Al Sud Restaurant is a fine dining establishment that has earned a Michelin star in 2023. The restaurant, helmed by the talented chef Louis Anjos, offers a gastronomic journey with stunning views over the Bay of Lagos and the Alvor Estuary. The elegant setting and innovative cuisine make Al Sud a destination in itself, where quality ingredients and creative dishes combine to provide an unforgettable dining experience.

Tee Times Golf Agency: your gateway to Algarve golf

For golf enthusiasts looking to explore the Algarve region, Tee Times Golf Agency offers comprehensive golf packages with access to the best courses in the area, including Palmares Golf. We provide tailored packages that cater to various needs, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable golfing holiday. Our expertise and local knowledge make us the perfect partner for planning a golf getaway in the stunning Algarve for those looking for the best Portugal golf holidays.

In summary, Palmares Ocean Living & Golf is a unique blend of natural beauty, luxurious living, and world-class golfing, offering a holistic and enriching experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether enjoying a round of golf on the stunning courses, indulging in a gourmet meal at Al Sud, or exploring the Algarve through Tee Times Golf Agency, Palmares promises a memorable and captivating experience.

Photos by: Palmares Ocean Living & Golf.