International Golf Travel Market 2015 (IGTM is a leading golf travel trade show for golf tourism suppliers, buyers and media) is set to provide a showcase for emerging golf tourism markets, as first time exhibitors are announced from Eastern Europe and Asia.
Among the first time exhibitors at IGTM 2015 is Gorki Golf Club, Russia (see picture above). Another first time exhibitor at IGTM 2015 is Vietnam, with Vinpearl Golf Club Management (see picture below). The event will will take place at the Magma Conference Centre, Tenerife, from October 5-8. More than 450 companies and 1450 golf tourism professionals will participate in the IGTM 2015.
Today, it is obvious that golf travel sales is moving online. Search engines, photo sites (Instagram, Pinterest etc.) and YouTube are the top online sources of inspiration. In search we are using destination names and travel brands to find our golf holiday destination. In YouTube we are using mainly destination names when we are checking a golf destination.
We are spending more time watching online videos than ever before, with views of travel-related content up 118% year over year (YoY, between 2013-2014). According to the data, travelers are increasingly using mobile devices to consume travel-related videos anytime and anywhere.
At the meantime, we are still watching mainly branded or professionally released videos despite of we are keen on seeing real life stories, personal travel experiences.
So, dear golf tour operators and golf clubs are you prepared for developing shareable content to generate awareness and interest?