2015 is off to a really positive start, with today’s figures from the CSO (Central Statistics Office) indicating growth of +14% in overseas visitors to the Republic of Ireland for the first quarter of 2015. That means we have welcomed an additional 189,000 visitors over the same three-month period in 2014. This is good news indeed, with the increase in visitor numbers from overseas helping to boost employment and economic recovery around the country.

Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said: “Today’s figures represent a stunning start to the year. Our aim is to ensure that 2015 is the best year ever for Irish tourism and already we have seen an exceptional performance from Mainland Europe in the first quarter (+18%). It’s another record first quarter for visitor numbers from North America and our longer-haul markets of Australia and New Zealand. I also welcome the strong increase in British visitors (+14%), our largest market for overseas tourism. Today’s figures very much reflect the sentiment expressed by our tourism industry partners overseas, including tour operators and carriers, as well as tourism businesses here at home.

Promoting the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route continues to be a major focus for Tourism Ireland around the world in 2015; we are also showcasing the new Dublin Discovery Trail. This year marks 150 years since the birth of world-renowned Irish poet and Nobel laureate, WB Yeats, and Tourism Ireland is promoting Yeats 2015 – particularly to our ‘culturally curious’ audience. This year has also been designated ID2015 (the year of Irish design), a showcase of the best of Irish design.”

Ireland has a wealth of experiences to offer tourists. City sights include shopping, dining, history and culture, arts, theatre and music.  The coast offers the wonderful discoveries on the Wild Atlantic Way, Europe’s longest designated road trip, down the rugged west coast of the country. In the east, a sheltered coastline and the delights of the three ‘W’’s – Waterford, Wexford and Wicklow. The midlands stretch wide – representing agricultural richness and wonderful countryside walking for those who love a ramble, plus pretty market towns waiting to be browsed. Northern Ireland has it’s own unique personality and brings a mix of cultures and heritage together. All of these destinations are made all the better with a Good Food Ireland road trip. You can choose exactly where you want to go at the click of a mouse. Make your own magical gourmet tour, taking in the areas you want to see and enjoying a wealth of local produce as you travel. 

Explore the possibilities today by browsing the Good Food Ireland website and finding your perfect culinary holiday!