Travel bible unmoved by ‘new Ireland’
That’s the verdict of the latest edition of the backpackers’ bible Lonely Planet, which goes on sale today.
According to the newest installment of the popular guidebook, traditional Ireland is quickly disappearing.
“Contemporary Ireland is not altogether different from any other European country, and you have to travel further to the margins of the country – the islands and the isolated rural communities – to find an older version of society,” states the guide.
The Lonely Planet has a somewhat mixed opinion of this new face of modern Ireland.
“There’s the New Ireland, a land of motorways and multiculturalism, planned and developed in between double decaf lattes and time out at the latest spa for a thermal mud treatment.
“Ireland’s other personality, however, is a little more traditional and, if the regular polls of departing tourists are to be believed, still holds the key to Ireland’s draw as a tourist destination.”
As well as highlighting the major cities, the guide also highlights some up-and-coming attractions worthy of more tourist attention.
“The overwhelming popularity of scenic superstars like Connemara and Kerry has seen the emergence of quieter idylls as the preferred destination of the discerning traveller, who has discovered the beauty of the lakes of Roscommon and the villages of Waterford, of rarely visited counties like Westmeath.
“These are the areas where you can come into contact with a more genuine Ireland, the kind removed from the slick machinery of the tourist trail.”
However, the guide doesn’t spare a number of towns and attractions criticising the “inexplicably popular” Blarney Castle as well as Navan, Slane and Kells, which the book says are “blighted with soulless housing estates”.
Meanwhile, Tourism Ireland is launching a search for people to star in a series of short online movies to help promote the island of Ireland overseas and attract more visitors in 2010 and beyond.
Last year, Tourism Ireland carried out a nationwide search for people whose love for their favourite part of the island could help sell the destination to potential visitors across the world.
Initial casting will take place at the end of January, with filming during February and March.
For a chance to take part, email ireland@anotheravenue.com including your full name, contact details, a recent photograph and a short paragraph on the locality you wish to share with the world.
Alternatively, please freephone 1800 848 909 and leave your name and contact details.
