Visitors to Ireland report increased satisfaction

Tourists' satisfaction with Ireland is increasing year on year, according to Fáilte Ireland.

Its annual Visitor Attitudes Survey shows that the top reasons for choosing an Irish trip were friendly people, beautiful scenery and because it is a safe and secure destination.

Some 63% of tourists think Ireland is very good, or good value for money, compared to 55% in the previous study.

Seat capacity on airlines flying into Ireland is this summer is projected to grow 9% on summer 2015 and, across the country, tourism businesses are reporting increased bookings.

In Dublin, most hotels are reporting growth for Q1 and extremely high occupancy levels during March as well as a significant jump in booking levels for the summer ahead.

Along the Wild Atlantic Way, businesses in every part of the region are reporting a very strong Easter particularly from the domestic market with revenue and customers in Q1 above 2015 levels.

Fáilte Ireland CEO Shaun Quinn said: “The signs look good and there is great cause for optimism within tourism this year but there are also good reasons not to be too complacent.

“The recent weakening of sterling in relation to the Euro means we have to remain vigilant with regard to competitiveness.

“Furthermore, recent incidents in Paris and Brussels have the potential for undermining travel confidence – particularly from the US.

“In Fáilte Ireland we are taking nothing for granted.

“That is why we are committed to events like tomorrow’s trade show and to working with Irish businesses to actively chase as much additional custom as we can.”