Lake Como, Italy: Preparations are under way for this year’s International Golf Travel Market (IGTM), which will be held in Italy for the first time.
Organised by Reed Travel Exhibitions, the premier global event for golf tourism suppliers, buyers and media will take place from October 27-30 at the Villa Erba Exhibition and Conference Centre, on the banks of Lake Como.
A strong representation from the host destination is assured with more than 70 Italian resorts, clubs and golf suppliers expected to exhibit, as well as a larger presence from resorts and courses in neighbouring countries, such as Switzerland, France, Austria and Slovenia.
The 17th edition of IGTM will also be the first time that England’s clubs will come together in a united English pavilion and exhibit under Golf Tourism England.
The event will also see continued support from last year’s host destination, Catalonia, as well as a strong representation from across Spain, including Andalucía, Valencia, Murcia and the Balearic and Canary Islands.
Morocco will increase its presence with over 24 suppliers from the country, growing its reputation as an accessible, affordable, all-year-round destination, with top quality courses and a long-standing golfing tradition which dates back almost a century, when Royal Tangiers Golf Club was formed in 1917.
After a two-year absence, the Ministry of Tourism for Indonesia and Jakarta City will return to IGTM, bolstering the show’s Far Eastern representation, which also includes a strong presence from Thailand and Vietnam.
Peter Grimster, IGTM Exhibition Manager, said: “The focus of IGTM over the years has been to provide the best possible forum for tour operators, golf tourism suppliers, venues and resorts to do business.
“It is encouraging to see, year-on-year, an increasing number of repeat exhibitors and first-time representation, as it reinforces the reputation and valour of the show.
“Bringing IGTM to Italy will not only enable the country to showcase its varied, yet relatively unknown, golf offering, but also demonstrate the strong support and drive the Italian Golf Federation, Tourism Board and numerous Government bodies are committing to help develop the country’s potential as a worthy European golf destination.”
Reed is an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.