The self-​proclaimed golf travel guru sees some burgeoning trends in golfing vacations. He has this to say about emerging destinations: "For those seeking new golf travel frontiers, countries increasingly bullish on golf as a lure for tourists include South Africa, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Korea, Vietnam, Mauritius, St. Kitts/​Nevis and Malaysia."

Here are more golf travel trends the Golf Travel Guru forecasts for 2018:

Extended Golf Travel Vacations

"Referred to as 'sojourns' for the baby-​boomer generation, these involve two or three-​month stays in golf-​rich areas," Ed Schmidt writes. "Typically, these golf travelers rent vacation apartments short-​term or utilize services such as Airbnb. Popular locations include Portugal, Spain, Italy, France and Ireland. These longer vacations aren't just for retired boomers, either. Many boomers work as consultants or freelancers and all they need is a reliable wi-​fi connection and they can travel and play golf for weeks at a time."

Second homes or time shares might be appealing for this set of "sojourners." The new AudienceSCAN survey showed 10% of Golfers intend to purchase investment properties during the next 12 months, and another 9% will invest in time shares/​vacation clubs.

Over-​The-​Top Greens Fees at Iconic Golf Courses

"You're going to need the few extra dollars from the robust economy because more and more of the world's most famous courses are charging past $400 for a round of golf during their high season. If you want to play golf's high-​profile layouts, be prepared to shell out some serious coin."

Viva Italia

"Italy has increased its tee time bookings by 40% in the past three years. The momentum is expected to continue as Italy will host the Ryder Cup for the first time in 2022. Italy has 142 18-​hole golf courses and several exceptional golf resorts."

The new AudienceSCAN study found 16.5% of Golfers plan to take out-​of-​town trips to professional sporting events during the coming 12 months.

Exciting New Courses to Play

"Several impressive golf courses debuted in 2017. For those seeking new golfing frontiers, the menu is enticing. Heading the list are: Hogs Head Golf Club in Waterville, Ireland, Streamsong Black in Bowling Green, Florida, Sand Valley Golf Resort in Rome Wisconsin, Norman Signature Course in Nayarit, Mexico, Panorama Golf Resort near Praque, Czech Republic and Danzante Bay Golf Club in Mexico."

AudienceSCAN data is available as part of a subscription to AdMall for Agencies, or with the SalesFuel API. Media companies can access AudienceSCAN data through the AudienceSCAN Reports in AdMall.