A warm welcome to the Irish

The past couple of years have been difficult for our golf tourism industry – not helped this year by forecasts of a universal economic recession and a weakening pound which is obviously giving some Brits food for thought. But the Irish, having had the good sense to adopt the euro when they joined the E.U., are now finding that travelling to Spain for their golf breaks offers great value for money in every aspect. Accommodation, car hire, golf and dining out all offer great value when compared to prices in Ireland. Add to the mix the low cost of direct flights and of course, the benign winter weather and the Costa del Golf becomes an attractive home from home for Irish golfers at a time when many Britains are struggling to make ends meet.

I meet plenty of Irishmen at the regular Golf Leisure Breaks stableford competitions and many have become good friends, in spite of some of my handicap adjustments! Our traditional St. Patrick’s Day competition next year (March 17th.) will incorporate the innovative “Ireland -v- The Rest of the World” match. Ireland currently lead the series 2:0.

As the summer season gradually draws to a close, the news for those intending to visit us during the next few months is good. Few clubs have significantly increased their greenfees, notwithstanding the rising cost of oil, etc. and some have actually reduced their rates. There are also some generous special offers, especially during the period from mid-November through to the middle of February 2009. For more information, call Julie or Leila on 952 582 943.

A NOTE FOR YOUR DIARY
Earlier this year, Golf Leisure Breaks organised the second weekend trip to the Antequera Golf Hotel. The trip was such a success, that a third trip is being arranged for the 14th-16th November. Golf Leisure Breaks have negotiated a wonderful package with the Antequera Hotel, comprising the following:
Pick-up by coach along the Costa del Sol from 5:30 pm on the Friday evening, arriving at the hotel in time for dinner, when pairings will be made for golf on Saturday morning. After breakfast, golfers are taken to the Antequera Golf Club by coach, returning to the hotel for dinner after a brief siesta. The process is repeated on Sunday morning, when the hotel provides a packed lunch. The return trip to the Costa del Sol should be at about 5:00 pm.

All this for only 174 euros, which includes greenfees, shared buggy and based on two sharing a double room. Non-golfers are welcome and the hotel offers wonderful spa facilities and the town of Antequera has plenty to offer. Places are limited and the trip is sure to be very popular, so book now to be sure of your place. Call Julie or Leila on 952 582 943.

Tags: Costa del Golf, golf tourism, Golfers