BRAZIL IS DECLARED GOLF DESTINATION OF THE YEAR.
The International Association of Golf Tourism Operators (IAGTO) awarded Brazil during the IAGTO Awards 2010, on November 19, during the closure session of the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) - main world golf tourism fair. The award was elected by 100 journalists from 25 countries, specialized in the segment. Brazil competed with other 20 countries, among which Germany, Costa Rica, India and Switzerland. The election is organized by the International Golf Travel Writers Association (IGTWA). Among other criteria, the award considers the quality of installations, structure, region attractions, climate and hospitality, additionally to cost, as well.
The IAGTO Awards 2010 has strengthened the position of Brazil as one of the main world destinations for golfing. According to the Brazilian Golf Confederation (CBG) currently Brazil houses 20 courses in its tourism destinations, spread over the Northeast, South and Southeast regions. More than 30 new courses, notably linked to resorts in the Northeast region, are planned.
"The election of Brazil as a revelation destination, according to golf expert journalists, is a recognition of the work developed in the last few years, the professionalization of this niche, constructing of new international standard courses and the promotion of Brazilian destinations among tour operators and the specialized media”, the president of Embratur, Jeanine Pires, stated.
The Ministry of Tourism, through the Brazilian Tourist Board (Embratur) and in partnership with professionals of the sector, has promoted Brazil as international destination for golfing. The goal is to make Brazil a global reference to golf tourism – a sport modality that will be part of the Olympic Program from the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games onwards.
(Source: information provided by ASCOM – Embratur and the Brazilian Golf Confederation – CBG)