Visitors want more than natural beauty

SEÁN O’RIORDAN’S article headlined ‘Where the streets have no gain’ (Irish Examiner, August 5) painted a grim picture of the summer season in Glengarriff, and I am very sorry that such is the case.

Growing up in Beara many moons ago, I remember how popular Glengarriff was among US and British tourists. But there used to be a saying in Beara: “Sure there is only a spell in everything.”

Tourist attitudes have changed; their practices and priorities have become more diverse. No longer does the beauty of the countryside hold sway.

Tourists nowadays seem to go more for the transitory trappings of modern holidays.

I suppose a holiday infrastructure has to be created in Glengarriff, and it must incorporate transport, recreational facilities for all ages, amusements, etc. This would involve the complete redevelopment of a very beautiful spot. I wonder is that the price which has to be paid.

Jeremiah C O’Sullivan

2 Caroline Terrace

Montenotte

Cork.