Promoting tourism: A fine balance

Wexford’s 800-year-old Hook Lighthouse won a “highly commended” accolade at the World Tourism Awards in London yesterday. Described as a “world class” attraction, was the only Irish attraction shortlisted.

Today, some 70 Irish businesses will be represented at the world’s biggest travel fair in London. The revenue generated will be a vital factor in sustaining Ireland’s tourism sector, very often in areas with few if any alternative enterprises. These efforts are to be encouraged even if it is appropriate to sound a note of caution.

We are all familiar with the sinking feeling that comes when we realise a holiday destination is not what was imagined — or sold. Disappointment follows when a town, a city, or a destination presented as idyllic turns out to be a shabby, over-crowded tourist mill.

Because Ireland has never relied on mass tourism we have managed, more or less, to safeguard the charms that make this country an attractive destination. We may need to work harder to preserve that finely-balanced status.