Tourism Ireland exhibits at ATM 2009 as plans move ahead to expand presence in region

This will be the Irish Tourist Board's third year at the show and along with the announcement earlier this year of the opening of a new regional hub for the Middle East and Asia in Abu Dhabi, underlines their commitment to the region.

Aiveen Ryan, Marketing Manager, Tourism Ireland, GCC, said:

"The Middle East is a priority market for us and ATM offers the best opportunity to promote Ireland's top travel and tourism products as well as network with old and new travel trade and media partners."

Tourism Ireland will be joined this year by six Irish industry partners at its stand EU550 located in Europe Hall, who will be actively promoting their products in Ireland and fostering business relationships in the region. They are tour operators Abbey Tours and Adams & Butler; accommodation group Countrywide Hotels Ireland Ltd; the official tourist office of Dublin, Dublin Tourism; and hotel groups Starwood Hotels promoting the Westin Hotel in Dublin and the Ritz Carlton Powerscourt in Co Wicklow.

Yvonne Donohue, Director of Sales & Marketing for the Westin Dublin, commented, "We are delighted to be attending ATM for the first time. The importance of the Middle Eastern market to Ireland has grown significantly over the last few years with airlift from the region direct to Dublin opening up the market for Middle Eastern travellers. As one of Dublin's finest hotels, The Westin Dublin has already become an extremely popular choice for guests visiting Dublin from the Middle East. We hope to use this year's ATM to further enhance our reputation and develop further contacts in this important market."

Tourism Ireland is particularly keen to encourage the travel trade to push Ireland this year as an exhilarating change from the already popular destinations.

"People are looking for new places, new experiences, and new memories," said Aiveen Ryan. And Ireland is the ideal destination to create those everlasting family holiday memories or have that next business meeting/incentive trip. The cool temperate climate, lush green landscapes, vibrant animated cities, quaint rural villages, splendid variety of accommodation options, renowned golf, and inspiring culture make a trip to Ireland an experience that everyone will want to enjoy. Add in the legendary warmth of the Irish welcome, the peace and serenity of the countryside, wholesome, locally sourced food and a real commitment to quality and service, and you have the perfect package: a delightful experience that will leave you satisfied and enriched.

And now with the current economic situation, the lower value of the Euro, and some great value for money deals, there has never been a better time to visit and experience the lure of the Emerald Isle...