27 September 2024
Ireland is host destination for annual travel trade ‘race’ event
Ireland has been chosen as this year’s host destination for the Air Canada-United Airlines Race. Thirty (30) top-performing travel agents from Canada and the US have been taking part in the annual race – that pits the travel agents against each other every year, as they run around to complete a series of challenges that immerses them in hidden gems and not-to-be-missed photo spots. They’re here as guests of Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism NI.
The visiting travel advisors have also been taking part in a workshop, connecting with around 60 tourism companies from across the island of Ireland. The workshop is followed by various familiarisation trips, allowing them to experience at first-hand what our island has to offer, including great food and drink experiences, spectacular landscapes, rich heritage and superb visitor attractions.
Sandra Moffatt, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Canada, said: “We are delighted that Ireland was selected as the host destination for this year’s Air Canada-United Airlines Race. The aim is to grow bookings from the United States and Canada to the host destination. With 30 top-performing travel advisors from both countries in attendance this week, it’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase our warm hospitality, world-class visitor attractions and spectacular scenery.
“As an island destination, we know that direct, convenient and competitive air services are critical to achieving growth in inbound tourism and both Air Canada and United Airlines are key partners for Tourism Ireland.”
In Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, the travel advisors will enjoy a cruise on the Shannon, explore Athlone Castle, join a guided archaeological tour at Rathcroghan Visitor Centre and visit The Shed Distillery. The travel agents exploring Ireland’s Ancient East will visit Powerscourt Estate and enjoy a cookery experience at Ballyknocken Cookery School, followed by a guided boat tour of Kilkenny.
The Northern Ireland itinerary will include J&J McConnell’s Distillery and Visitor Experience, the Giant’s Causeway, Broughgammon Farm and NearyNógs Stoneground Chocolate. The Wild Atlantic Way itinerary includes Kylemore Abbey, a sheepdog demonstration at Caherconnell Stone Fort and a visit to the Cliffs of Moher.
Canadian and US travel agents at Arigna Mining Experience in Roscommon, with Donna Looby, Tourism Ireland (front, left); and guide Maurice Cullen (front, right).
Notes to Editors:
- Tourism Ireland is the organisation responsible for promoting the island of Ireland overseas as a leading holiday destination.
- Tourism Ireland’s international website is www.ireland.com, with 21 market sites available in 18 different countries, as well as one international site, in seven language versions around the world.