South Africa`s Cape Garden Route was named the 2006 Golf Destination of the Year for Africa and the Middle East at the International Golf Travel Market held at Marbella, Spain. The award is made annually by…
South Africa`s Cape Garden Route was named the 2006 Golf Destination of the Year for Africa and the Middle East at the International Golf Travel Market held at Marbella, Spain. The award is made annually by IAGTO, the Global Trade Organisation for the Golf Tourism Industry and is a milestone for golf tourism in the Garden Route and Western Cape province.
The Cape Garden Route walked away with the grand prize, beating top destinations like Dubai and Mauritius amongst others, after more than 200 golf tour operators in 38 countries worldwide cast their vote based on the quality of golf courses and accommodation, customer service, professional conduct of suppliers, support from the local tourism authority, value for money and accessibility of tee-off times.
The Cape Garden Route is home to the world famous Fancourt Hotel & Country Estate where the Presidents Cup was hosted in November 2003, Goose Valley, designed by the Gary Player Group, and Pezula Golf Club, situated on one of the most magnificent locations in South Africa. It also has five other 18-hole and eight 9-hole golf courses, and a driving range.
Dave Frandsen, Executive Manager Marketing of Cape Town Routes Unlimited, the official tourism destination marketing organisation for Cape Town and the Western Cape where the Garden Route is situated, says: “The scenic settings and wealth of golfing facilities available in the Garden Route and Western Cape enables the province to offer visitors an unparalleled golfing experience. This award will lend weight to our efforts to market our spectacular golf tourism experience globally.”
Frandsen notes: “Research shows that there are around 57 million golfers worldwide – one percent of the world’s population – who have access to 31 000 golf courses. This means that firstly, a huge market is available to destinations that have the right offering. It also means that golfers can afford to be selective. The Western Cape’s established golfing culture and mild, temperate climate offers a unique, year-round experience with a proven capability to confidently host major events. Add to this our renowned reputation for hospitality and service and you have the components for a truly world-class golfing destination.”
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
