Algarve Tourism Association challenges golf operators to move temporarily

The Algarve Tourism Association (ATA) is inviting international golf operators to move temporarily to the Algarve.

By “immersing themselves completely” in the region, ATA believes they will have an opportunity to “explore the Algarve in detail and acquire new knowledge”, which will allow them to promote, in an “authentic way and with first-hand experience”, everything that makes the Algarve a “unique and renowned golf destination on an international level.”

The idea was inspired by British operator Your Golf Travel, which, after contacting ATA, decided to send six members of its commercial team to work from the Algarve for two months.

“Aware of the potential of this initiative, the expectation is that this example will now be followed by more operators,” says ATA, adding that it is available to provide “every kind of information and support necessary to plan these stays.”

ATA’s new pitch to golf operators is part of a series of marketing campaigns it is carrying out in partnership with 14 golf operators from the region’s main markets.

“The idea is that these professionals can live and feel the Algarve in person in an engaging and authentic way,” says ATA boss João Fernandes.

“We want them to get to know not only our golf courses, infrastructures and services associated to the sport, but have a 360-degree experience, coming into contact with local culture and experiencing everything that the destination provides to visitors,” he adds.

“This is a unique opportunity for professionals of the sector to get to know everything that the region has to offer on and off the golf courses, and which explains why the Algarve continues to be one of the most awarded and renowned golf destinations in the world. We are certain that this deeper knowledge of the region will give operators a significant difference in terms of the advice they can provide to all those who look to enjoy a golf holiday in this destination,” the tourism boss added.

Andrew Harding, co-founder of Your Golf Travel, has also praised the initiative.

“The experience of living and breathing one of our main destinations daily will certainly be a unique opportunity for our team of collaborators,” he said.

Harding added: “We are very excited to be able to participate in this challenge and hope to develop, in a significant way, our knowledge about the Algarve and improve the service we provide to our customers.”

The Algarve is home to over 40 golf courses spread across the region.

By Michael Bruxo
[email protected]