From Ireland to the Riviera: Reflections on a Month of Connection
In the span of three weeks, I traded the dramatic cliffs of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way for the glittering coastline of the French Riviera…two completely different worlds, yet both reminders of why I love what I do. October was a whirlwind of discovery, connection, and inspiration, as I took part in the IAGTO Ireland Golf Convention and then headed to IGTM Cannes, one of the golf travel industry’s premier events.
Exploring Ireland’s Northwest
The IAGTO Ireland Golf Convention took us deep into Ireland’s northwest region – an area that’s pure magic for golfers and travelers alike. Our journey began in Sligo, then wove its way along the coast through Donegal, Ballyliffin, Portrush, and beyond. Each day brought new scenery, new courses, and new perspectives on what makes Ireland such a timeless golf destination.
There’s a saying among those who’ve been before: You can travel to Ireland several times and never play the same great courses twice. It’s true. You can, but why would you want to, when there are so many to discover? Each course tells its own story, shaped by wind, tide, and terrain.
A fun bit of trivia: Ballyliffin Golf Club holds the title of the northernmost golf club in Ireland. Standing there, surrounded by rugged coastline and crisp Atlantic air, it’s easy to see why so many golfers fall in love with this part of the country.
From Sligo to Portrush, and even a stop at the iconic Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, the region offered a mix of beauty, challenge, and warm Irish hospitality. The best way to experience golf here, especially in the Northwest, is to base yourself in one central location as the courses are spread out, but the drives are scenic, and each day feels like an adventure.
After the convention, I took some personal time to explore further south, spending a few days in Cork visiting Fota Island Resort and The Kingsley Hotel, and exploring the colorful harbor town of Kinsale. I also spent time in Dublin, where I ventured out to Newgrange and Knowth in the Boyne Valley; ancient sites that add another layer of Ireland’s magic beyond the greens.
From the Fairways to the French Riviera
Not long after leaving Ireland, I was in Cannes for IGTM 2025, reconnecting with colleagues and meeting with golf courses, resorts, and hoteliers from across Europe and beyond. I had productive meetings with partners from Portugal, Spain, Greece, Italy, Morocco, Egypt, Thailand, and Japan, and left inspired by how global the golf travel community truly is.
While I go to these events for business, it’s also about relationships. Catching up in person after years of emails and Zoom calls brings a different kind of energy, the kind that leads to meaningful collaboration and unforgettable client experiences.
Cannes itself is a wonderful host city, with its vibrant dining scene and Riviera charm. I enjoyed several networking lunches and dinners throughout the week, including a lovely reception by Play Golf in France at the Gray d’Albion Hotel.
One highlight was hearing about the transformation of the Vilamoura area in Portugal’s Algarve, it’s evolving beautifully, and I can’t wait to return soon. The message I shared in many of my meetings is simple: book early. Top courses in Ireland, Scotland, and Portugal fill up quickly, especially for prime tee times. Planning well in advance means you’ll get the best access and smoothest experience.
The Bigger Picture
Whether I’m standing on a windswept Irish green or chatting with hoteliers along the Riviera, the message is always the same, golf is never played the same way twice. Every course, destination, and journey has its own rhythm, shaped by place, people, and passion.
At Ingenious Travel, I bring these firsthand experiences to every trip I design, combining trusted partnerships with on-the-ground insights to ensure that every itinerary is as seamless as it is memorable.
October reminded me that travel, at its best, connects us to landscapes, to cultures, and to one another. I’m looking forward to turning these experiences into unforgettable journeys for my travelers in the months ahead.