Kerry on top for short breaks

KERRY has topped the poll as the most popular holiday destination in a survey that asked people where they were planning a short break at home this year.

More than 96% of people who took part in the survey conducted by Kilkenny Tourism stated they planned to take at least one short break in Ireland this year.

Of the 440 consumers who were interviewed at the end of last year, Kerry was voted the most popular destination with respondents, while Kilkenny was cited as the second most popular short break destination among holiday makers for 2011.

Galway, Dublin and Cork were voted the next most popular Irish holiday destinations, while Northern Ireland, Donegal and Mayo also received support.

Of the 4% of consumers who stated they would not be taking a short break in Ireland this year, the majority said they could not afford to take any breaks away, in Ireland or abroad.

Less that 1% of those interviewed cited limited choice and value as the reason they would not take a break in Ireland in 2011.

Liam Anthony Griffin of Kilkenny Tourism said the findings provide a real boon to Irish tourism providers striving to survive in very challenging times.

“The fact that the overwhelming majority of respondents plan to take at least one short break at home this year is testament to the quality, choice and value now available in Ireland,” he added.