Tee Times highlights Portugal and Spain in the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention

Carlos Ferreira, CEO and founder of Tee Times Golf Agency, and Jorge Diogo, Director of Sales and Marketing, recently represented the agency at the 15th IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention (NAC) held from June 17-19, 2024, at the Mountain Grand Lodge & Spa in Boyne Falls, Northern Michigan. This prestigious event is a pivotal gathering for the golf tourism industry, bringing together prominent golf resorts, clubs, hotels, tourist boards, and other suppliers from the USA, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond.

The IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention is known for its highly structured format, facilitating pre-scheduled meetings between suppliers and buyers over two days. This setup fosters meaningful business relationships and networking opportunities. The convention started with a golf tournament at two of Northern Michigan’s premier courses, followed by social functions, including a Welcome Reception and a Farewell Evening function. Delegates enjoyed buffet lunches and evening meetings, ensuring ample informal networking and discussion opportunities.

IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention opportunities

Carlos Ferreira and Jorge Diogo seized the opportunity to connect with top tour operators. They successfully showcased the exceptional experiences that Tee Times Golf Agency offers in Portugal, Spain, and other destinations. They effectively highlighted the luxurious golf holidays available through the agency, emphasising their wide range of golf packages, top-class courses, and comprehensive facilities. As an IAGTO member, Tee Times ensures a seamless booking experience and unparalleled golf trips, a testament to our proven track record.

 

Our agency specialises in providing tailored golf holiday packages that cater to every golf enthusiast, from solo players to professional groups. Whether it’s the sun-soaked courses of the Algarve and Costa del Sol, the vibrant streets of Lisbon and Madrid, or the serene landscapes of the Canary Islands, Tee Times ensures a golf trip that exceeds expectations.

During fantastic days, we made valuable business connections at the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention, enjoyed the camaraderie, and shared our experiences with colleagues and friends. We had the opportunity to play golf, participate in the convention’s dinners and activities, and strengthen existing partnerships. This personal touch underscores Tee Times Golf Agency’s commitment to delivering exceptional golf tourism experiences and the warm, welcoming nature of the industry. Congratulations to the organizers. Thank you very much for receiving us and making us feel at home. See you next year!

Amendoeira Golf Resort: a premier destination in the Algarve

Amendoeira Golf Resort, a unique gem nestled in the heart of the Algarve, spans 270 hectares of lush natural beauty. This one-of-a-kind destination offers an array of amenities, including several swimming pools, two award-winning 18-hole golf courses, and Portugal’s only illuminated 9-hole golf course. Sports enthusiasts will be thrilled by the two synthetic turf 5-a-side football pitches, a FIFA-sized football pitch, six Savannah tennis courts, a fully equipped gym with modern Technogym machines, a jogging track, and a children’s playground.

The Clubhouse, a beacon of luxury and comfort, is the resort’s social hub, featuring a restaurant where guests indulge in delicious meals, snacks, and drinks. Additionally, the pro shop provides everything golfers need to enhance their game. Whether staying in an opulent apartment with access to multiple pools or a lavish villa with a private pool, visitors are guaranteed a comfortable and luxurious experience. The resort’s proximity to the beach, just a 10-minute drive away, further enhances its appeal as a perfect holiday destination or permanent residence.

Undoubtedly, Amendoeira Golf Resort stands as one of the most exclusive destinations, offering the best options for those seeking unparalleled Portugal golf breaks in the Algarve with Tee Times Golf Agency.

Faldo Course at Amendoeira Golf Resort

The Faldo Course, a masterpiece by the legendary Sir Nick Faldo, is a 6578m Par 72 championship course that beckons strategic play. This course, which clinched the title of Portugal’s Best Golf Course by World Golf Awards in 2016, is renowned for its dramatic landscape. It boasts unique elements such as cacti and wild herbs, spartan Holm oaks, ancient olive trees, and desert scrub bunkers of crushed limestone, offering a modern twist on traditional golf course design.

O’Connor Jnr. Course

The O’Connor Jnr. Course, designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr., complements the Faldo Course with its lush valley setting. Water features, including lakes and watercourses, challenge golfers of all levels. The course’s mature palm trees and rich topsoil create a serene, oasis-like environment. The course’s greater distance, water hazards, and large greens provide an additional challenge, requiring golfers to carefully read the subtly contoured putting surfaces.

Academy Course

The Academy Course, the only floodlit 9-hole course in Portugal, is ideal for beginners and those wishing to improve their short game. Built to the same high standards as the Faldo and O’Connor Jnr. courses, it features three teeing options for varied play. The 7th hole, with two teeing options over water, is a highlight. This course is a family favourite and must-play alongside its more challenging counterparts.

The Amendoeira Golf Academy

The Amendoeira Golf Academy takes pride in its tailored training programs for men, women, and juniors of all skill levels. With a maximum 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio, the academy ensures each student receives personalized instruction, utilizing high-tech tools like Trackman for swing analysis. The holistic approach includes mental efficiency, equipment evaluation, nutrition, and fitness. Each lesson concludes with a personalized CD/DVD comparing the original and improved swings, making every student feel valued and catered to.

Amendoeira Golf Resort is a sanctuary for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing an unmatched experience in the stunning Algarve region for unforgettable Portugal golf holidays.

Photos by: Amendoeira Golf Resort.

Real Guadalhorce Golf Club will receive strong hitters for the Spain LDET Championship

The Real Guadalhorce Golf Club is set to host the Spain Long Drive European Tour (LDET) Championship on September 20th and 21st, marking the second time the tour will visit this prestigious venue. Nestled in Málaga, just 15 minutes from the international airport and 10 minutes from the historic city centre, Real Guadalhorce provides an idyllic setting for this thrilling competition. With its tranquil environment and top-tier facilities, the club is primed to offer participants an unparalleled experience.

“We are very proud to welcome the tournament in September,” said Ignacio Sánchez, Director of Real Guadalhorce Golf Club. “Our location in Málaga, near the international airport, offers the perfect blend of serenity and accessibility. Our team eagerly anticipates the event and looks forward to making the players feel at home.”

The Spain LDET Championship, a tournament known for its fierce competition, is all set to return to Real Guadalhorce. The last time it was held here in 2017 witnessed a nail-biting final where European Champion Matt Nicolle emerged victorious over Steve Curtis. This year’s tournament promises to be equally intense, with top contenders like Nicolle, Teemu Pitkanen, Robin Horvath, and Bry Roberts. The 2017 LDET Champion, Nicolle, returns with a strong track record, including three tour victories. Pitkanen, known for his record-breaking 440-yard drive, and Horvath, who holds the European distance record of 443 yards, will also compete for the title.

About Real Guadalhorce Golf Club

Real Guadalhorce Golf Club, a masterpiece designed by Kosti Kuronen and later enhanced by Ryder Cup winner Miguel Ángel Jiménez, features a challenging 18-hole course. The front nine, designed in an English “parkland” style, offers gentle hills and wide fairways, while the back nine incorporates raised greens and water hazards, increasing the challenge. The entire course, stretching 6194 meters, is enveloped by Mediterranean vegetation, enhancing its beauty and complexity.

The tournament, supported by the Tourism of Málaga and the Málaga Sports and Events Department, highlights Real Guadalhorce’s status as a premier golfing destination. With its modern facilities catering to all family members and a rich history in the golfing world, Real Guadalhorce Golf Club is a top venue for the LDET Championship and a key player in Spain’s golfing landscape. For those seeking an exceptional golfing experience, the club is a must-visit destination, and it is one of the best recommendations Tee Times Golf Agency offers for those looking to enjoy their Spain golf holidays.