David Wood from Tourism Ireland shares why 2024 is an ideal time to visit the island of Ireland.
There is so much for groups to experience across the island of Ireland in 2024, from the breathtaking scenery of the Wild Atlantic Way, the fascinating history of Ireland’s Ancient East and the natural splendour of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands to the vibrant culture in and around Dublin and the myriad of giant experiences on offer across Northern Ireland.
With its world class visitor attractions, internationally lauded food and drink scene, exhilarating year-round events programme, great outdoors offering and globally renowned friendly welcome, the island of Ireland has something to intrigue and delight every visiting group.
We have an exciting year ahead with 2024 marking the tenth anniversary of the Wild Atlantic Way, the longest coastal touring route in the world, stretching 2,500km along Ireland’s rugged west coast.
Recent openings along the route include the new National Surf Centre in Sligo, the International Rugby Experience in Limerick and the Arranmore and Burtonport Blueway, the first Coastal Blueway in Ireland. We are also delighted that Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 listed Donegal as the fourth best region in the world to visit.
Coach and group travel will remain a key focus for Tourism Ireland and we would like to extend a huge thank you to the coach and group travel sector for their continued support.
In Northern Ireland, Belfast 2024 will see the city highlight its cultural credentials with a programme of exciting events and a visit to the new Derry Girls exhibition at Derry-Londonderry’s Tower Museum is a must for any fan of the hit comedy series.
Coach and group travel will remain a key focus for Tourism Ireland and we would like to extend a huge thank you to the coach and group travel sector for their continued support. We’re very much looking forward to working with you to promote holidays to the island of Ireland for 2024 and beyond.
We have an exciting year ahead with 2024 marking the tenth anniversary of the Wild Atlantic Way, the longest coastal touring route in the world.
Great Britain remains an incredibly important market for tourism to the island of Ireland, delivering 42% of all overseas tourism and around 25% of all overseas tourism revenue. Britain is also our most important market in terms of visitor numbers and bed nights, and we will continue to maximise all opportunities that this strong position affords.
In addition, the continuation of the Common Travel Area (CTA) means British and Irish citizens can travel between the two islands without a passport or visa restrictions, subject to ID requirements from the travel provider. Visitors can also continue to enjoy travel between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in either direction and they can rest assured that travel will remain straightforward and hassle free.
We can’t wait to welcome you and your groups to the island of Ireland!
David Wood,
Trade, Industry and Business Tourism Manager, Tourism Ireland
For more information visit: www.trade.ireland.com.
This comment is from the 2024 edition of Who’s Who in Group Leisure. Posted to thousands of our readers it is also available online for everyone by clicking here.
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