Golf, Growth & Great Times: Swinging into New Connections at AGTC in Vietnam

We’re back from the 11th edition of the Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) in Da Nang, Vietnam, and once again, the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) did not disappoint. From April 2nd to 4th, our CEO & Founder, Carlos Ferreira, and our Director of Sales & Marketing, Jorge Diogo, represented Tee Times Golf Holidays at one of the most important gatherings in the golf tourism world.

AGTC isn’t just about business—it’s about reconnecting with old friends, meeting new partners, and sharing our love for golf with people from across the globe. With more than 450 delegates from 33 countries taking action at the 5-star Sheraton Grand Danang Resort & Convention Center, this year’s event buzzed with ideas, energy, and many exciting future opportunities.

AGTC in Vietnam: A Perfect Location

Da Nang proved to be the perfect host city. Surrounded by breathtaking golf courses—like the award-winning Ba Na Hills Golf Club and the stunning Hoiana Shores—the setting was a reminder of just how much the Asia-Pacific region has to offer. Between pre-scheduled meetings with 150+ tour operators and the AGTC Golf Tournament, there was no shortage of action, both on and off the green.

For over 30 years, we’ve been helping golfers worldwide enjoy unforgettable trips across Portugal, Spain, and beyond. At Tee Times Golf Holidays, we offer top green fees, tailor-made packages, and expert local support that make planning a golf getaway easy and enjoyable.

Events like AGTC help us keep raising the bar. They allow us to share what we do best while staying close to the people and trends shaping the future of golf tourism. Thanks to IAGTO and the incredible city of Da Nang for hosting such a memorable event. We’re already looking forward to the next one!

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.

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