From bike tours to bodhrán lessons, city glamour to rural charm, 60 overseas buyers were immersed deeply in the delights of Ireland on a series of Meet in Ireland educational trips in March and April 2019. Designed to showcase the stunning regions and landscapes of the country and all its diverse activities, the six trips comprised jam-packed itineraries that took in historic estates, spectacular coastlines, trendy restaurants, bars and a smorgasbord of cultural experiences.
The international buyers — hailing from the UK, Germany, France, the US and Canada —were left in no doubt as to Ireland’s world-class MICE credentials and came face-to-face with the famous Irish welcome at every destination they visited in Dublin City, Ireland’s Ancient East and the Wild Atlantic Way.
Dublin City
In Ireland’s historic capital, delegates dipped into Irish heritage and culture with visits to landmarks such as Croke Park Stadium, the Guinness Storehouse, the Book of Kells at Trinity College Dublin, Windmill Lane Recording Studio, and the Mansion House. Visits to distilleries like Teelings, Pearse Lyons and Dublin Liberties illustrated a quirkier kind of MICE venue and showcased the passion of Irish artisan producers. Bike tours of Dublin city centre took in the finest of four and five star hotels, perfect for hosting business tourists from around the world, while modern city restaurants provided a taste of the kind of banqueting they are well-equipped to provide.
Ireland’s Ancient East
In counties Wicklow, Kildare and Kilkenny, guests took part in hands-on interactive cookery experiences at Ballyknocken and Edward Hayden Schools of Cookery. On their itineraries were visits to the breath-taking Curragh Racecourse and Irish National Stud and the chance to tour the most beautiful parts of Wicklow, “the garden of Ireland”, in a luxury coach. Overnight stays and site inspections of five star estates like Powerscourt Hotel, the K Club Hotel, Cliff at Lyons and Carton House showed the groups the luxurious side of meetings, incentives, conference and events held in Ireland’s Ancient East.
The Wild Atlantic Way
Heading west, delegates toured quaint Killarney town, charming Cork City and lively Galway, and delved into exciting outdoor activities in rugged beauty spots like the Gap of Dunloe in Kerry — all as part of a whirlwind tour of the Wild Atlantic Way, an unforgettable coastal touring route. Delicious meals, local entertainment, inspiring tours and overnight stays introduced them to some of the fantastic accommodation and catering options available.