According to a recent survey by KPMG, demand for golf tourism is on the decline during this time of recession.
However despite this trend new international golfing destinations are emerging.
One hundred and twenty golf tour operators from 41 countries were surveyed by KMPG Golf Advisory Practice which is based in Budapest.
38% of the Golf Tour Operators reported a decline in their business, compared with just 10% in 2008, although 54% noticed an increase in business, compared with 73% in 2008.
The main hotspots for golf tourism were Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Scotland and the United States of America
A big emerging golf market was Turkey at number seven. This is largely due to a high level of government support to help develop this market, golf courses in “clusters” and the cheaper prices there.
Major factors influencing holiday maker’s decisions when looking at a golf destination were golf course quality, price, accessibility and the number of golf courses in the area. “Golf Tradition” rated as the least important factor.
Tourist’s length of stay appears to remain the same, although the average trip budget has decreased, with golfers looking for better deals and value for money, which is not surprising in this economic climate