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The overseas golf market saw a surge in activity during this winter peak season. Demand was high, and with increased airline capacity, most destinations experienced a bustling season. However, there were instances where demand concentrated in certain areas or where supply fell short, leading to noticeable temperature differences across regions.

● Couldn't sell more even if we wanted to!

Travel agencies noted a concentration of demand for overseas golf trips in traditional strongholds like Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines in Southeast Asia. Additionally, newer destinations like Bali, Laos, Cambodia, Taiwan, and Mongolia caught attention. However, there were variations in temperature across regions. While Vietnam, the Philippines, and Hainan witnessed high demand, they faced disappointment due to insufficient airline services and golf course availability. For instance, in Vietnam, while areas near Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi attracted many local residents, tourist demand dispersed to Danang, Dalat, and Nha Trang, where the limited number of golf courses posed challenges for travel agencies. Similarly, Hainan's expectations for a busy winter season post-COVID-19 were not fully met due to limited direct flights operated only by T'way Air and Air Busan.

The Philippines saw a significant increase in airline supply to Clark during the winter season, but there were complaints about supply not meeting demand adequately.

● Japan, not lagging behind in golf

Japan showed a notable rise in popularity this winter, extending into the spring months until May, surprising travel agencies. Golf package demands concentrated in cities like Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki, with some charter flights already fully booked until May. Young travelers preparing for rounds during the cherry blossom season in March and April also contributed to this trend. Furthermore, golf packages for Hokkaido, known for its cool climate even in summer, were in high demand, with bookings starting as early as late February. However, the joy for travel agencies is tinged with concern as the surge in demand for golf trips to Japan prompts many local golf courses to consider delaying tee-off times and raising prices.

● Overseas Golf Trips Like Independent Travel

There has been a clear trend of growth in independent travel style trips. Among overseas golf reservations this winter, Saipan dominated with a staggering 71% share. Analysis attributes this to benefits like generous baggage allowances of up to 46kg, late check-out options, and itineraries structured for free schedules. A travel agency representative noted a significant increase in demand for semi-package deals and two-person round packages, which allow travelers to enjoy rounds of golf and then explore freely without constraints. There's also a notable rise in demand for a la carte tee time reservations through platforms akin to independent travel platforms, where travelers book only tee times and arrange rounds themselves. According to data from overseas golf tee time reservation system provider AGL, from November last year to February this year, single tee time reservations increased by over 30% compared to the previous year, while package bookings decreased by 20-30%.

● Spring Golfing Abroad! Weekend Getaways, Short and Sweet

The disappearing boundary between peak and off-peak seasons is noteworthy. Spring and autumn have traditionally been considered off-peak seasons for the overseas golf market. However, due to high fees at domestic golf courses and rising costs of food and beverages, there's still considerable demand for overseas golf trips in the spring. Golf-focused travel agencies are eyeing China alongside Japan this spring, particularly cities like Qingdao, Hainan, and Yantai. Japan, in particular, is forecasted to maintain its popularity in spring due to the weakened yen, allowing travelers to enjoy high-quality golf courses at affordable rates. Additionally, the diverse seasonal characteristics of different regions in Japan offer unique golfing experiences. There's also an expected increase in short and budget-friendly golf trips. An AGL representative analyzed, "In spring, there's a gathering demand for weekend getaways to nearby regions with short flight and car travel times," adding, "Casual and cost-effective golf trips have increased by over 30% compared to the previous year."

Sources : Travie (https://www.travie.com/)

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