Category Archives: Ireland

Click&Go (press release 12th July 2022)

Best Autumn Deals!

Visit www.clickandgo.com today! 

Autumn holidays can offer better deals, mild weather and less crowds. Skip the busier summer holiday season and take advantage of an affordable holiday package this autumn.

3* Costa del Sol from €359 per person in October

From €359 per person for the 3* Sol Timor Apartments. Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel in October 2022.

Price includes: 

·         Return flights from Dublin to Costa del Sol

·         7 nights in the 3* Sol Timor Apartments, Torremolinos

·         On a Room-Only basis

·         Airport taxes & charges

·         Link to offer: https://www.clickandgo.com/design-your-own-holiday/customise/2022-10-23/7/2::0/RO/DUB/0/8203/2112/356?search=all/Costa_del_Sol/2022-10-23/7/2::0//DUB/0

4* The Algarve from €379 per person in September

From €379 per person for the 4* Vitor’s Plaza Aparthotel. Price is per person based on 2 adults share for travel in September 2022.

Price includes: 

·         Return flights from Dublin to The Algarve

·         7 nights in the 4* Vitor’s Plaza Aparthotel, Alvor

·         On a Self-Catering basis

·         Airport taxes & charges

·         Link to offer: https://www.clickandgo.com/design-your-own-holiday/customise/2022-09-28/7/2::0/SC/DUB/0/165/66285/383?search=all/The_Algarve/2022-09-28/7/2::0//DUB/0

4* Majorca from €399 per person in September

From €399 per person for the 4* Eix Lagotel Hotel. Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel in September 2022.

Price includes: 

·         Return flights from Dublin to Majorca

·         7 nights in the 4* Eix Lagotel Hotel, Alcudia

·         On a Bed & Breakfast basis

·         Airport taxes & charges

·         Link to offer: https://www.clickandgo.com/design-your-own-holiday/customise/2022-09-28/7/2::0/BB/DUB/0/8211/12576/407?search=all/Majorca/2022-09-28/7/2::0//DUB/0

3* Tenerife from €459 per person in October

From €459 per person for the 3* Palm Beach Tenerife Aparthotel. Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel in October 2022.

Price includes: 

·         Return flights from Dublin to Tenerife  

·         7 nights in the 3* Palm Beach Tenerife Aparthotel, Playa de las Americas 

·         On a Room Only basis

·         Airport taxes & charges 

·         Link to offer: https://www.clickandgo.com/design-your-own-holiday/customise/2022-10-17/7/2::0/RO/DUB/0/10042/2112/456?search=all/Tenerife/2022-10-17/7/2::0//DUB/0

4* Lanzarote from €599 per person in October

From €599 per person for the 4* Costa Sal Aparthotel. Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel in October 2022.

Price includes: 

·         Return flights from Dublin to Lanzarote

·         7 nights in the 4* Costa Sal Aparthotel, Puerto del Carmen

·         On a Self-Catering basis

·         Airport taxes & charges 

·         Link to offer: https://www.clickandgo.com/design-your-own-holiday/customise/2022-10-14/7/2::0/SC/DUB/0/2053/2/598?search=all/Lanzarote/2022-10-14/7/2::0//DUB/0

4* Gran Canaria from €489 per person in October

From €489 per person for the 4* FBC Fortuny Resort Apartments. Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel in October 2022.

Price includes: 

·         Return flights from Dublin to Gran Canaria

·         7 nights in the 4* FBC Fortuny Resort Apartments, Maspalomas

·         On a Self-Catering basis

·         Airport taxes & charges 

·         Link to offer: https://www.clickandgo.com/design-your-own-holiday/customise/2022-10-18/7/2::0/SC/DUB/0/8297/22364/493?search=all/Gran_Canaria/2022-10-18/7/2::0//DUB/0

ENDS

NOTE TO EDITORS:

About Click&Go
Click&Go is Ireland’s fastest growing online travel company. They are one-stop online travel shop making it quick and easy for you to book the holiday you want. Click&Go is a 5 star travel company with over 5,000 positive consumer reviews on Trustpilot. Click&Go are holiday partners with Aer Lingus. Click&Go are the home of the €1 holiday deposit – book now and pay later with Ireland’s only genuine €1 deposit for holidays!

For further information please contact: 

Kathryn Byrne, Limelight Communications, kathryn.byrne@limelight.ie, 085 233 6033 / 01 668 0600

Kathryn Byrne

Managing Director

Limelight Communications

60 Grand Canal Street Upper

Beggars Bush

Dublin 4

Ireland

T: 353 (1) 668 0600

M: 353 (85) 233 6033

E: kathryn.byrne@limelight.ie

Global Air Travel Set to Bounce Back 65% in Third Quarter 

The summer travel outlook report, produced for the World Travel Market (WTM) by ForwardKeys, reveals that in the third quarter of the year, July, August and September, global air travel is set to reach 65% of where it was before the pandemic in 2019. 

However, the revival is patchy, with some parts of the world doing much better than others and some types of travel, particularly beach holidays, being much more popular than urban city visits and sightseeing.

The region of the world that is on course to recover most strongly is Africa & the Middle East; its arrivals in Q3 are expected to reach 83% of 2019 levels. It is followed by the Americas, where summer arrivals are expected to reach 76%, and then by Europe, 71%, and Asia Pacific, just 35%.

The current preference for beach holidays is well illustrated by a comparison of the top ten beach and urban destinations in Europe, ranked by Q3 flight bookings compared to 2019. All those in the beach list, which is led by Antalya, 81% ahead, Tirana, 36% ahead and Mykonos, 29% ahead, are showing extremely healthy demand, whereas, in the urban list, only Naples is ahead. 

Furthermore, the four leading urban destinations, Naples, 5% ahead, Istanbul, flat, Athens, 5% behind, and Lisbon, 8% behind, are all also gateways to beach resorts too.

A similar trend is exhibited in the Americas, where Q3 bookings for air travel to the Caribbean, Central America and Mexico are 5% ahead of 2019 levels, whereas flight bookings to South America and to the US and Canada are, respectively, 25% and 31% behind. The destinations which are set to perform most strongly are Costa Rica, 24% ahead, Jamaica, 17% ahead and the Dominican Republic, 13% ahead.

Enthusiasm to travel again internationally is so strong that a rise in air fares has done relatively little to dampen demand. For example, the average fare from the US to Europe climbed by over 35% between January and May with no noticeable slowing in booking rates. 

And these fares were nearly 60% above the previous year. Fares for shorter haul, intraregional travel (ie: within the Americas) also increased substantially, by 47%, which is less than for long haul. However, the demand for those tickets peaked in March.

Helpfully for the travel industry and for many destinations, American travelers are planning to stay longer and spend more than they did in 2019 but not as much as they did during the pandemic. 

The average planned length of stay in Q3 is 12 days, up from 11 days in 2019. Last year, it was 16 days, but fewer people, with a more affluent profile, were traveling then. The proportion of people flying in premium cabin classes in Q3 is also set to rise, from 12% in 2019 to 15% this year. The relatively promising outlook for summer travel to Africa and the Middle East is due to a combination of factors. Several Middle Eastern airports act as hubs for travel between Asia Pacific and Europe, which has led to the Middle East benefiting from the revival of intercontinental travel, particularly driven by people returning to Asian countries to visit friends and relatives. The closure of Russian airspace has also contributed to the uplift in hub traffic. Cairo, 23% ahead, has increased connectivity to European markets. Nigeria, 14% ahead, Ghana, 8% ahead, and Ivory Coast, 1% ahead, with large diasporas in Europe and the US, are seeing expats return to visit friends and family. Tanzania, 3% ahead, Cape Verde, flat and the Seychelles, just 2% behind, are successfully attracting long haul visitors from Europe

Dublin-Seattle Route Recommencing in May 

Aer Lingus will reinstate its direct flight route from Dublin to Seattle on 26th May. The five-times a week service will fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which will unveil an expanded international arrivals facility this spring. Improvements include eight new gates, increasing passenger capacity and reducing connection time, and a new aerial walkway connecting passengers to the South Satellite terminal. From world-class museums and galleries to farm-to-fork restaurants and indie boutique shops, there’s plenty for Irish travellers to enjoy in Seattle.

Visit Santa – Silvija Travel Tips

Countdown to Christmas 2022 is on with Visit Santa.

It is time to get booking that trip of a lifetime to see Mr Claus himself in the magical world of Lapland.

A trip to Lapland is a dream for any family – both kids and adults! To give a wishlist to Santa in person is one memory they will never forget.

VisitSanta have released some amazing deals for this Christmas, ranging from one day trips to four day adventures.

Most popular are the three day trips which start from €1,119pp and give families plenty of time to do all the fun activities on offer. Those on a budget or who are tight on time can choose a one or two day trip from only €640pp. All packages includes flights, accommodation, thermal clothing and are jam-packed with exciting activities and, of course, some face time with the man himself!

VisitSanta are also giving you the chance to win this magical experience for you and your family, with Canterbury Travel! Just click here to enter and you could win a trip for two adults and two children to Lapland where you can explore Santa’s village, go snowmobiling, take a sleigh ride, and meet Santa Claus himself.

Now is the perfect time to start planning and take advantage of these early offers! So book now and avail of fantastic value on these Lapland adventures for you and your little loved ones!

Enchanting Lapland 1 Day Trip – December 2022
Take this mesmerizing day trip to the mystical resort of Enontekio where igloos, ice sculptures and of course Santa await from only €680 per adult and €640 per child.
Price includes: Return flights incl. taxes, transfers, thermal snow suits and boots, a visit to Snow Igloo, private meeting with Santa and his elves including gift, snowmobile, husky, tobogganing and sleigh rides, lunch, souvenir CD and licences.

Santa’s Sleepover – 2 Day Trip – December2022
A sensational sleepover in Santa’s hometown where you will be taken on whirlwind adventures by his reindeer and elves, and you’ll even get to meet the magical Mr. Santa Claus himself from only €1,097 per adult and €819 per child.
Price includes: Return flights ex. Dublin or Cork, meeting with Santa, free gift for children aged 2-12 years, snowmobile, husky and reindeer sleigh rides, snow and ice fun activities, gingerbread decorating, a trip to Santa’s post office and village, thermal clothing for the duration of your trip and meals.
Travel: Between 7th and 21st December 2022

Sleighbell Spectacular – 3 Day Trip – December 2022
An activity-filled break to the snowy plains of Lapland, with everything from husky and reindeer sleigh rides to lessons at Elf School and a meeting with a very merry Father Christmas from only €1,309 per adult and €1,119 per child.
Price includes: Return flights ex. Dublin, thermal snow suits, 3 nights full-board accommodation, private meeting with Santa and his elves with gift, snowmobile, husky and reindeer sleigh rides, tobogganing, all meals including a Festive Gala dinner and show, souvenir CD and licences.

Lapland Lullaby – 4 Day Trip – December 2022
An exhilarating 3 night trip to transport you to a world of magic, this package includes every festive activity you could hope for and more from only €1,575 per adult and €1,475 per child.
Price includes: Return flights ex. Dublin, thermal snow suits, 3 nights full-board accommodation, private meeting with Santa and his elves with gift, snowmobile, 90 minute husky and reindeer experiences, tobogganing, all meals including a Festive Gala dinner and show, journey to the magical post office, €25 gift allowance, souvenir CD and licences.

All offers subject to change and availability. For more information or to book visit VisitSanta.ie  or call the experts on +3531-6111048.

Museum of Style Icons in Ireland – Silvija Travel Tips

Silvija Zalepugiene visited the Museum of Style Icons located within the Newbridge Visitor Centre, in Co. Kildare, Ireland. The museum  hosts numerous collections and artefacts relating to Stars of the Silver Screen and many modern day artists – including Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Princess Grace, Princess Diana, Michael Jackson, Michael Flatley, the Beatles and many more. Now rated as one of the top 5 free tourist attractions in Ireland, the Museum regularly hosts visiting collections from around the globe and admission is free.

Reporter: Silvija Zalepugiene

#SilvijaTravelTips

Discover the West of Ireland at Hotel Westport – Silvija Travel Tips

  • Cian’s of Bridge St. Pop-Up Restaurant Experience
  • All-new Family Bush Camp Socially Distant Staycation Offering
  • Clew Bay Bike Hire Partnership for the Ultimate Fresh Air Activity

Hotel Westport, located on the stunning Westport Estate is the only place for your post-pandemic staycation this summer. With the easing of the toughest restrictions just around the corner, Hotel Westport has put together the ultimate socially distant staycation packages for those chomping at the bit to get away for their beyond summer break in style. Those coping with cabin-fever or simply ready for some new experiences – remember those – need to pack up for picturesque Westport and head for the wild and wonderful west.

Hotel Westport is a peaceful haven set on the idyllic surrounds of Westport House, and the Hotel Westport team has spent the past month preparing the highest safety standards and guidelines in anticipation of welcoming guests back to enjoy a unique staycation experience this summer. But safety aside, the team has focussed on the ultimate in innovation and collaboration to wake up your restricted senses and enjoy a ‘second-half of summer’ to remember. Adventure lovers, zen seekers and fun-loving families will all find something to fulfil their travel needs at this west coast wonder.

The picturesque estate with its 400 acres of fresh air is set in the heart of the town at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way and overlooked by Ireland’s most famous mountain, Croagh Patrick. Visitors can enjoy some quality time with loved ones at the hotel’s Family Bush Camp, a unique outdoor experience that allows families to reconnect with nature through fun bush crafting and survival activities while maintaining social distance from other guests. It’s the perfect way to kick-start your freedom with an unrivalled experience that won’t compromise on safety.

Visit the website for Bed & Breakfast informatiion and bookings can be secured at www.hotelwestport.ie

Community spirit is at the heart of Westport, as local businesses come together during these unprecedented times. The owner and head chef of Cian’s on Bridge Street, Cian Hayes, will be opening a pop-up restaurant experience in Hotel Westport this summer: Cian’s at Hotel Westport. Bringing a unique take on the menu ordinarily served at his award-winning restaurant to Hotel Westport, the pop-up will take advantage of the large space available in the hotel so guests and locals alike can enjoy a remarkable dining experience in comfortable and socially distant surrounds. Diners can expect to enjoy the best in locally sourced ingredients with bespoke dishes.  Another great collaboration is with Clew Bay Bike Hire. Guests at Hotel Westport can truly experience the wild Atlantic west by hiring bikes on site and cycling an exclusive and accessible 10km loop through the estate, the harbour, and the town. If you’re feeling ambitious, why not take on the breath-taking Great Western Greenway, a cycle you could only but dream of these past few months.

Westport House, an 18th-century manor house also on Westport Estate, is just a stone’s throw away from the hotel. Visitors can stroll through the beautiful grounds to enjoy the blooming gardens and take in the 3.5k looped Lakeland and woodland walk. The house itself is open to day-visitors to discover the fascinating stories of this privately-owned historic house while they immerse themselves in 300 years of Irish heritage in its stunning formal rooms and original antiques, architecture, and artwork.

It is pitch-perfect timing for the guest who truly wish to holiday in the great outdoors.  Why not consider a Camping or Caravan break in the onsite 3-star park on the Westport House Estate? Visit www.westporthouse.ie for more information or to make a booking.

Newly appointed Chief Executive at Westport Estate, Barry O’Connor, said; “Unity in Westport is something that’s important to all of us and local businesses are joining forces to help each other during these different times. Things have changed for Irish people so much over recent months, so at Hotel Westport we have created a unique staycation experience while ensuring the safety of our guests, to offer people a chance to make some amazing memories this summer.”

Cian Hayes, Head Chef of Cian’s said “I’m delighted to be working with the team at Hotel Westport to bring my award-winning dining experience to the hotel. This partnership is a fine example of the community spirit unique to Westport, showing that even during trying times we can come together to offer people something to enjoy. As well as local patrons, we hope to see many visitors come down to enjoy the pop-up restaurant and experience everything Westport has to offer this summer.”

Discover Westport like never before this summer. For more information or to make a booking enquiry please visit www.hotelwestport.ie

Game of Thrones fans will love this filming locations tour – Silvija travel Tips

The wild scenery of Ireland has captured the hearts of filmmakers around the world. And of course, it comes as no surprise to most Game of Thrones fans that the TV show was filmed in the beautiful County Antrim, Northern Ireland. If you are planning a trip to Ireland soon and can’t imagine anything better than a day dedicated to uncovering the magical locations of the series – Wild Rover Tours‘ Game of Thrones Tour from Dublin is a must-see experience.

Why book the Game of Thrones tour from Dublin

  • Visit locations where some of the most iconic blood-curdling Game of Thrones scenes were filmed
  • Savour the seaside town of Carnlough… or maybe better known as the dramatic city of Braavos!
  • Along the Causeway Coastal Route, stop at the Cushedun Caves, where you could swear you saw ships sailing from Westeros on the horizon.
  • With our lunch stop at the Fullerton Arms, claim your place at a very realistic Iron Throne.
  • Visit the House of Greyjoy (otherwise known as the Dunluce Castle) where you can hear the family’s affairs echoing.
  • Let your expert guide weave stories of Irish myth and truth that undoubtedly give this location its otherworldly magic.
  • Get 10% off a second Wild Rover Day Tour from Dublin when booking them at the same time.

Price: Adult €55.00 plus booking fee

Availability: 5 days a week

Pickup: 7:15am Dublin Bus Office, 59 O’Connell Street Upper, Dublin 1

Drop off: 8:10pm O’ Connell Street

Things to bring: All-weather clothing and a smile on your face

Included: GOT costumes, transport, guides and all admissions

Interested in experiencing the Game of Thrones Tour during your getaway to Ireland? Simply click here!

For further information on Wild Rover Tours’ and its services please visit www.wildrovertours.com

Source:TravelMedia.ie

A visit to Marble Arch Caves – Silvija Travel Tips

Top off your year with a visit to Marble Arch Caves The Marble Arch Caves, one of Europe’s finest show caves, has extended its opening hours in November with guided tours taking place from Wednesdays to Sundays inclusive from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm throughout the month.

The caves will then close for the winter season, and reopen in early March 2020. Set in the heart of the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark, the guided tours of the Marble Arch Caves bring visitors along a 1.5km trail through the fascinating natural underworld of rivers, winding passages, lofty chambers and an array of delicate cave formations. Marble Arch Caves staff, located in the Visitor Centre, can also provide information and advice on visiting the area, activities available locally and walking in the neighbouring area of Marlbank which has a range of walks suitable for all levels of walkers.

Tours take place at the Marble Arch Caves approximately every 30 minutes from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm Wednesday to Sunday throughout November with the Marble Arch Café open from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. 

Please note tours are weather dependent and it is advisable to contact the Marble Arch Caves on the day of your visit.
For more information on local attractions or guided cave tours check out our website at www.marblearchcaves.co.uk or telephone the Marble Arch Caves on 028 66 321815.
    
 For further information contact:  Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark 43 Legnabrocky Florencecourt County Fermanagh BT92 1EW Telephone:  0044(0) 28 66321815 

Explore where Hollywood is made – Silvija Travel Tips

The first day when arrived to IPW in Anaheim I had a sightseeing tour to Warner Bros Studio, one of the busiest working studios in Los Angeles.

 

Familiarity with the studio started in a warm atmosphere, guests were greeted in Hollywood with delicious snacks and Oscar images.

 

Tour Guides have brought us behind the scenes of a studio that has been in the world for over 95 years.

We went behind the lens and discovered the secrets of movie making magic.

 

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood brought us closer than ever to the legendary entertainment we love, where the greatest names in entertainment made history.

Experience the excitement of a Hollywood studio featuring movies and TV shows

A lot of great impressions and cinematic secrets give us a great Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Dine for free at Disney with American Holidays

1st May 2019
PRESS RELEASE

Dine for free at Disney with American Holidays

Make magical memories that last a lifetime on a family trip to Walt Disney World Resort!

Experience the glorious Toy Story Land, explore the famous Disney’s Magic Kingdom or discover Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

D

If all of the above tickles your fancy, American Holidays’ latest package is sure to be right up your street!

American Holidays packages include free Disney Dining or free breakfast when you stay at a selected Disney Value Resort, meaning you can experience the care-free family break of your dreams with the added bonus of free dining.

Check out American Holidays latest Disney World Resort offer with Free Disney Dining:

Walt Disney World Family Holiday including Park Tickets and Free Disney Dining from €1207pp

A family holiday to Walt Disney World Resort is the perfect way to spend some quality time with your loved ones. With 4 theme parks and 2 water parks, each with their own special attractions and experiences you’ll never be bored.

What’s included:

Return flights from Orlando plus 1 checked bag per person round-trip

7 nights Walt Disney World Resort Florida

Disney 7 day Ultimate Ticket with Memory Maker

Disney Magical Transfers on arrival and departure, all in resort transportation and extra magic hours in theme parks

Free Disney breakfast

Based on 2 adults & 2 children sharing

Travel date: February 2020

Ref: 51844556

T&Cs apply.
For bookings made for selected arrivals 1 January – 3 October 2020, guests staying at selected Disney Moderate, Deluxe, or Deluxe Villa Resorts get treated to FREE Disney Dining, or FREE Breakfast when you stay at a selected Disney Value Resort.

Call American Holidays on 01 673 3804 to avail of these offers or you can also drop in to our brand-new office located in 16 Exchequer Street, Dublin 2, where our expert staff will be on hand to help you create your dream holiday.

For more information visit www.americanholidays.com.

Please note hotels are correct at the time of escorted tour planning and may be subject to change prior to tour departure date due to availability.

Source:

TravelMedia.ie
Niamh Waters
Phone: 086 0492394
Email: niamh@travelmedia.ie

Michael Collins
Phone: 086 8583585
Email: michael@travelmedia.ie

Best Western Hotels & Resorts

Best Western Hotels & Resorts targets Irish Hotel Owners, Developers and Investors with new-look Brand Portfolio
Plan is for 10 hotels in Ireland in the next five years


Best Western Hotels & Resorts (BWHR) has launched an awareness building campaign to demonstrate to Irish hotel owners, developers and potential investors how much the brand has changed and emerged significantly over the past number of years.

BWHR intends to build awareness in the Irish market of this new and improved global brand and its products. The group intends to have 10 hotels in Ireland within five years and is targeting existing properties and new builds with at least 75 rooms in both the Republic and Northern Ireland.

BWHR has established a team of 23 in its Dublin-based office, working across revenue, eCommerce, sales, marketing, support and business development. A new Director of Development Vivienne Nyhan has also been appointed to work with hoteliers and potential investors.

Best Western Hotels & Resorts has a portfolio of over 4,200 branded hotels in operation with a global footprint covering over 100 countries. There are two existing BWHR hotels operating on the island of Ireland however “our objective is to motivate more Irish hotel owners and investors to take a look at the new brand image and talk to us to show what we can offer them”, says Vivienne Nyhan, International Development Director, BWHR.

There are 13 brands in the BWHR portfolio that cater for all market segments, from 3 to 5-star property types. In the UK there are 250 hotels, while BWHR is the largest hotel group in Sweden, with 156 hotels in Germany and over 2,000 hotels in the United States.

In Ireland, the group is looking to establish the Best Western Plus, Best Western Signature and Best Western Premier brands as well as new boutique brands, Sadie and Aiden, whether for hotel conversion opportunities or indeed new builds.

Source: O’Hea PR
T: 01-6608540
E: roisin@oheapr.com

Irish Tourism Comes Calling In Halifax – Unravel Travel TV

Irish Tourism is on the move. Inspired by a 16% increase in visitors in 2017, representatives from 13 partner firms hosted an evening for Halifax-based travel agents in the Great Hall of the Dalhousie University Club. The Great Hall was a fitting setting since its two-and-a-half-story-high vaulted ceiling and minstrel’s gallery has an old-world, medieval castle-like feel.

The message was Ireland is what you imagine and much more. And its growth in tourism shows how on-point it is for the prime travel motivators for all demographics.

Sandra Moffatt, director of marketing promoted the high access to the country, the volume of ready-to-sell packages and ability to customize itineraries, authentic experiences, and the wide range of local experts to enhance any experience, the food and hospitality. She also noted that Ireland isn’t a summer-, winter- or three-season destination. It’s a year-round destination. One of the presenting partners, Siobhan Byrne Learat, from Adams & Butler, told the group, “In Ireland we don’t have summer and winter clothes. We have clothes. We wear them year round.”

Moffatt also mentioned Conde Nast Traveler listed Ireland as number three in their top 10 countries to visit.

Among its attributes is golf. Ireland is home to a third of the world’s links courses. That’s an interesting selling point since Canadians have the highest golf participation rates in the world.

In July the Royal Portrush Course is hosting the 148th Open. For non-players, The Open is such a famous tournament it doesn’t need a fuller name. On the edge of the Portrush course is the ruined Dunluce Castle which has a funny story – funny in the context of Irish humour – about a storm that sent the castle’s kitchen, cooks and pots crashing into the sea.

For those with Downton Abbey-addicted clients, Ireland has 600 stately homes and castles. Many of these homes and castles accept guests. Some make their owners available for a special event or experience. Among the possibilities are having a glass of wine with the Honourable Desmond Guinness, tea with the Earl of Rosse at Birr Castle (as Lord Snowdon’s brother he is the Queen’s former brother-in-law) or sharing a whisky with the Jameson Family (of the distillery fame).

For the more adventurous there are unique experiences from cycling, climbing, traversing the Garrick-a-Rede swinging rope bridge and exploring the 40,000+ natural stone columns of the Giant’s Causeway. For man-made creations, the burial mount at New Grange predates the pyramids by 5,000 years.

The 2,500-km-long Wild Atlantic Way is the world’s longest touring route. Its success has spurred the development of the 314-km-long Causeway Coastal Route, which is rated one of the world’s best touring routes, and The Gobbins guided adventure cliff walk.

For city experiences, Titanic Belfast maintains strong interest and has been rated the world’s leading attraction. Dublin is promoting five-day St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and Waterford, which is best known for the crystal produced here, is central to Ireland’s Viking triangle. Waterford has more national monuments in a three-block area than are found in all the rest of Ireland. It also has a 42-km cycling route.

Armagh is the country’s ecclesiastical capital. With two St. Patrick’s cathedrals – one Church of Ireland (Protestant), one Roman Catholic – it is a popular destination for faith-based groups and individuals who follow a pilgrim route. St. Patrick was actually dean of the Protestant cathedral (which at the time was a Catholic church).

Amargh, which is where Gulliver’s Travels was written, is also a foodie city, a genealogical centre and home to many traditional Irish sports. Among those sports is Hurling, which is played here year round. Hurley-on-ice, which was played in Windsor, Nova Scotia in 1800, is considered the roots for hockey, so has that extra Canadian interest.

Screen tourism, driven by The Games of Thrones and Star Wars’ The Last Jedi, is drawing visitors on a type of cultural pilgrimage to locations where these productions have been filmed.

Some of the intense new travel experiences are the knitting tours. They’ve got the sheep and history and are drawing knitters from around the world who come to learn, experiment and pursue their passion.

Moffat’s colleague said they support agents and sellers with high commissions, value for money for visitors, authentic experiences, local experts, easy customization of packages and itineraries, a history of hospitality, and a real year-round destination. In addition to newsletters, e-zines, promotional literature, market advice, fam trips, workshops, trade shows, Irish Tourism will provide content for sellers’ social media accounts, as well as material targeted to client interest.

Another message was variation of price points. Ireland can provide luxurious five-star experiences in castle resorts, but for the price-sensitive also provide family-friendly-priced experiences.

The evening began with a reception-trade show, speed-dating-type-rotating table presentations, dinner and Irish music. Amongst themselves, the 70 Halifax-based agents considered it one of the better organized evenings they are invited to.

Participating Irish and Canada-based partners were B&B Ireland, The Griffin Group (small, Irish-owned hotel group), Visit Armagh, Waterford Treasures, Giant’s Causeway World Heritage Site, Galway 2020 (when they are the European Capital of Culture), Adams & Butler, Moloney & Kelly, The Irish Tourism Group, Royal Irish Tours, Globus Family of Brands, CIE Tours and Collette Vacations.

Source: travelindustrytoday.com