There has been an uptick in outbound golf tourism demand with destinations like Vietnam, Indonesia and Sri Lanka getting popular among golfers.
Earlier it was mainly Thailand that was being promoted as a destination for golf tourism in India and preferred by golfers. However, now demand for other destinations is also growing fast. The Vietnam Tourism Forum 2022 which took place on December 14 highlighted various golf courses in the country with the objective to attract Indian golfers. Other destinations like Sri Lanka and Dubai have also highlighted their golfing products through their roadshows that took place earlier in 2022.
“Thailand has been promoting its golf tourism products in the Indian market for a long time. However, now other destinations especially short-haul markets like Vietnam, Malaysia, Dubai and Sri Lanka are also getting popular among Indian golfers. The respective tourism boards have also realized the potential in the Indian outbound golf tourism market and are marketing accordingly,” said Rajan Sehgal, president, India Golf Tourism Association (IGTA).
According to Sehgal, the fact that an average Indian golfer spends more money compared to a leisure tourist in a destination has resulted in NTOs targeting the golf tourism segment.
“If you send 20 Indian golfers to a destination, they spend more money than 40 leisure tourists. In fact, golf has now become an integral part of many Indian destination weddings and MICE activities. Event planners are creating opportunities for guests and delegates to enjoy a golfing experience,” added Sehgal.
Even long-haul markets like South Africa are keen to attract Indian golfers to their destinations.
“We have also diversified the way we sell South Africa to appeal to the core passions of Indian travellers. With highly customized and personalized itineraries, we are looking at mobilising niche communities like golfers,” said Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head – MEISEA, South African Tourism.