IRELAND has been added to more UK tour operators’ brochures for 2000 to reflect the growing interest in the destination.
Cresta is featuring Belfast in its Cities brochure for the first time while Bridge Travel Service has added Ireland to its Self-Drive brochure.
These developments follow the decision by Cosmos to include three coach tours from Dublin in the year 2000 Tourama brochure.
Cresta brand manager Chris Barker said: “Business to Northern Ireland is up 23% this year and there has been a lot of development in Belfast, such as new hotels, bars and nightclubs, which we think will attract more visitors next year.”
He said the city will appeal to clients who have already taken several city breaks and are looking to find the next new destination.
“I think it will especially appeal to those who have been to Dublin and want to visit another Irish city,” he added.
Cresta is featuring three Belfast city-centre hotels from £190 for two nights at the Holiday Inn Express, including flights, from January to March.
Bridge is featuring self-drive holidays in Ireland, with self-catering or hotel accommodation. It also offers suggested touring itineraries or tailor-made options.
Prices start from £97 for a one-night bed-and-breakfast break, including ferry crossings, as part of its Go As You Please self-drive programme.
Hotel accommodation is available in Dublin, Cork, Kinsale, Waterford, Wexford, Dungarvon, Kilkenny and Killarney.
Self-catering holidays start at £332 per rental property for one week including ferry crossings.
Bridge Self-Drive general manager Jackie Willcocks said: “The growth of the self-drive market has prompted us to look for alternative destinations for our customers and our research has shown that there is demand for holidays to Ireland.”