International Golf Travel Market (IGTM), the world’s premier global event for golf tourism suppliers, buyers and media from the Americas to Japan and China, was the venue for 10,000 pre-scheduled meetings during three days in Valencia, Spain, 15-18 November 2010
More than 1,400 delegates from 67 countries, including the strongest ever showing of Asian destinations, resorts and golf tour operators, led by Japan and China, attended the event, which also staged the IAGTO Virgin Atlantic Awards 2011.
Mark Walsh, Group Exhibition Director of Reed Travel Exhibitions, said: “IGTM is the number one golf travel show and the best event for suppliers and buyers to meet and do business. It is also becoming increasingly important as a barometer of the golf travel industry’s performance – and the verdict this year is that despite the general economic situation, the market is lifting.
“Five continents were represented this year with increased participation from Asia, including Japan, China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam, among other countries. Due to the number of nations represented it was a great opportunity to see the diversity of products across the world.”
Mark Walsh added: “As our host venue, Valencia fulfilled all our expectations with marvelous infrastructure, and warm and generous hospitality. The feedback I have received underlines the view that Valencia has very much impressed the international golf tourism industry.”
IGTM was also the venue for the 11th annual IAGTO Virgin Atlantic Awards which were awarded at a gala dinner last night.
The winners of each category are as follows:
Undiscovered Golf Destination of the Year
Prince Edward Island, Canada
Golf Destination of the Year
Africa, Indian Ocean & Gulf States – South Africa
Asia & Australasia – Australia
Europe – North West Ireland
Latin America & The Caribbean – Argentina
North America – Scottsdale, Arizona
Golf Resort of the Year
Europe – Celtic Manor Resort, Wales, UK
North America – LaQuinta Resort & Club, California
Rest of World – Punta Cana Resort & Club, Higüey, Dominican Republic
IAGTO Virgin Atlantic Honorary Award
Colin Montgomerie
Next year’s IGTM will take place in Belek, Antalya region, Turkey, and at the Antalya Expo Centre, 14-17 November 2011.
IGTM www.igtm.co.uk