Turkish Golf Federation (TGF) predicts a brighter 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Turkey's overall popularity has risen considerably over the last few years. And golf is becoming an increasingly important driver in attracting tourists, and indeed property purchasers, to Turkey - and it was crowned Best Golf Destination of the Year in Europe by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) in 2008.
Only a short flight from the UK and Situated outside the Euro-zone, astute players are now realizing that world-class golf in the Mediterranean doesn't just mean Spain and Portugal. The country's Mediterranean climate means that Turkey is forging a reputation as a popular location for those looking to take golf holidays, and the Turkish government is keen to tap into the golfing market as it understood golf tourism is a way to sustain and develop Turkish tourism.
The Turkish Golf Federation has grand plans for 100 courses countrywide in the next 15 years, up from just 17 today with the construction of international class courses well underway. Big names in the world of golf design are already active in the country, driving up the quality of design and facilities. Golf in Turkey has been centered on Istanbul and Antalya's Belek, with its 14 courses, is definitely the place to lead the country. However, Bodrum now has 3 courses open, with 4 more planned for the area. This has encouraged development to meet the demand for quality accommodation from golfers, be it for rent or purchase. In the Tulza area, for instance, the first of two classically designed 18-hole golf courses opened earlier this summer at the Vita Park Golf Club, with the second course due to open in 2009. There are a number of residential developments surrounding the courses offering affordable property to purchase.
Laurence Kaye of Alternative Travel, a specialist Turkish golf travel operator has stated that Turkey appeals to British golfers thanks to its pleasant Mediterranean climate, with ideal playing conditions throughout the year. Ahmet Agaoglu, chairman of the Turkish Golf Federation (TGF) predicted a brighter 2009, despite the global economic crisis. "I believe 100,000 to 125,000 golf tourists will visit Turkey in 2009, which means 400,000 to 450,000 rounds."
Dominic Whiting, editor of the Buying in Turkey guide, concludes, "Turkey has really made its mark as a global tourism destination in recent years and it is keen to continue in this vein, attracting even more visitors and offering world class golf courses and facilities along with exceptional value real estate is a further step in that direction."
Social BookmarkingOnly a short flight from the UK and Situated outside the Euro-zone, astute players are now realizing that world-class golf in the Mediterranean doesn't just mean Spain and Portugal. The country's Mediterranean climate means that Turkey is forging a reputation as a popular location for those looking to take golf holidays, and the Turkish government is keen to tap into the golfing market as it understood golf tourism is a way to sustain and develop Turkish tourism.
The Turkish Golf Federation has grand plans for 100 courses countrywide in the next 15 years, up from just 17 today with the construction of international class courses well underway. Big names in the world of golf design are already active in the country, driving up the quality of design and facilities. Golf in Turkey has been centered on Istanbul and Antalya's Belek, with its 14 courses, is definitely the place to lead the country. However, Bodrum now has 3 courses open, with 4 more planned for the area. This has encouraged development to meet the demand for quality accommodation from golfers, be it for rent or purchase. In the Tulza area, for instance, the first of two classically designed 18-hole golf courses opened earlier this summer at the Vita Park Golf Club, with the second course due to open in 2009. There are a number of residential developments surrounding the courses offering affordable property to purchase.
Laurence Kaye of Alternative Travel, a specialist Turkish golf travel operator has stated that Turkey appeals to British golfers thanks to its pleasant Mediterranean climate, with ideal playing conditions throughout the year. Ahmet Agaoglu, chairman of the Turkish Golf Federation (TGF) predicted a brighter 2009, despite the global economic crisis. "I believe 100,000 to 125,000 golf tourists will visit Turkey in 2009, which means 400,000 to 450,000 rounds."
Dominic Whiting, editor of the Buying in Turkey guide, concludes, "Turkey has really made its mark as a global tourism destination in recent years and it is keen to continue in this vein, attracting even more visitors and offering world class golf courses and facilities along with exceptional value real estate is a further step in that direction."
Labels: Golf-property, Tourism
