China travel group names Ireland as ‘best destination’

China’s largest online travel agent has named Ireland as its ‘best potential destination’ this year.

The fifth annual Ctrip ‘Best Tourism Destination’ awards ceremony took place last weekend in Shanghai, with Ireland picked ahead of Turkey, Sweden, South Africa, Dubai, Kenya and Queensland in the category.

As Ctrip offers travel services to more than 90 million members, it is a significant win in a growing market for Irish tourism.

The award was presented to Tourism Ireland at a ceremony in Shanghai and Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said it was an indicator that many more Chinese holiday-makers will choose to visit Ireland.

“We are absolutely delighted that Ireland has been singled out for this award – which is certainly a positive indication of the increasing awareness of Ireland among Chinese travellers,” he said.

“We believe that this market represents a significant opportunity for Irish tourism and we are committed to growing visitor numbers from China — from 17,000 visitors in 2012 to 50,000 per year, over the coming five years.

“I am confident that this award will ... help to attract more Chinese visitors in 2014 and beyond.”

Last year was a record year for visitor numbers from Ireland’s long-haul markets, while outbound travel from China has grown hugely.

Tourism Ireland plans to capitalise on the favourable view of Ireland in China by running a busy programme of activity in the run-up to St Patrick’s Day. This will include the ‘greening’ of the Oriental Pearl Radio and TV Tower in Shanghai and the Pudong Shangri-La Hotel old and new towers, also in Shanghai, on 17 March.

A special Ireland Family Day in Huaihai Park, Shanghai, will be held on March 15 and will showcase Irish food, while Altan will play a concert in Beijing on March 16. Meanwhile, a crew from CCTV (China Central Television) will travel to Ireland to film the various St Patrick’s Day activities here.