May was the fifth consecutive month Las Vegas has seen a year-over-year decline in tourism traffic, with visitor volume down 6.5%, per the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. While Las Vegas’ tourism decline is led by a slip in domestic travel, which is typically behind roughly 88% of total visitation,  the city has also seen fewer international travelers (down 1% year to date), especially from Canada (down 15% year to date).

Unusual Terms in Golf

A Barkie: Hitting a tree and still making a par.

A Ted Kennedy: A golf shot that’s hit way to the left.

A Rush Limbaugh: A golf shot that’s hit way to the right.

A Platypus: Hitting a ball out of bounds and still making par (a highly unusual accomplishment).

A New Chapter

In 1996, Tiger Woods turned professional. This December, he turns 50, making him eligible to compete on the Champions Tour.

Women in Golf

Did you know? Thirty-five percent of today’s junior golfers are girls, compared to under fifteen percent 25 years ago.

Couples In Demand

I saw an interview on CNBC last week with a CEO that owns a staffing agency that specializes in placing couples in hospitality positions. The CEO explained that by hiring both the husband and wife…turnover is reduced…and you are able to fill two positions instead of one. Makes sense. While the macro economic conditions remain an turbulence, it’s clear staffing is still a hot button issue for resorts and private clubs.

Influence of Social Media

A National Golf Foundation survey reveals one-third of golfers chose their last golf destination based on recommendations from someone they know. Word of mouth isn’t just important for golf travel businesses – it’s absolutely critical. Thus, validating the importance of social media.