Two Kerry based tourism companies - including one from Killarney - travelled to London this week to negotiate business for 2022 at the world’s largest travel fair.

TRADE FAIR: Christopher Brooke Vice-Chairman of Tourism Ireland Lisa O’Sullivan The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre and Tourism Minister Catherine Martin at World Travel Market in London.

Tangney’s of Killarney and The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre attended the World Travel Market (WTM) in London alongside Tourism Ireland and 40 Irish tourism businesses this week.

WTM typically heralds the beginning of Ireland’s promotional drive overseas for the year ahead. As we restart travel from overseas, Ireland’s presence at World Travel Market is more important than ever this year. Every destination across the globe has experienced the impact of COVID-19 and is now seeking its share of the recovery. Tourism Ireland’s aim, therefore, is to stand out from the crowd and to capture the attention of the global media and travel professionals in attendance.

This year, WTM is a hybrid event – the live event took place over three days this from November 1-3, and the virtual meetings took place from November 8 and 9. In all, some 77 tourism companies from Ireland will engage in important meetings with international tour operators – to negotiate and exchange vital contracts for 2022.

“As we restart tourism from overseas, we are delighted to attend World Travel Market, the world’s largest travel fair," Niall Gibbons, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland, said. 

"The representation of Irish companies at WTM is extremely welcome – and essential in the highly competitive international marketplace. Every destination across the globe has experienced the impact of COVID-19 and is now seeking its share of the recovery. Tourism Ireland’s aim, therefore, is to stand out from the crowd and to capture the attention of the global media and travel professionals in attendance."

The ‘Green Button’ campaign is now under way and will reach 46 million people across Britain, he added.

"It’s a really extensive, multi-channel campaign which is highlighting Ireland as a fantastic destination for a short break or holiday. Our message – and that of the entire Irish tourism industry – is very simple: we cannot wait to roll out the green carpet and welcome back visitors from Great Britain and elsewhere around the world. Together with our industry partners, we will undertake our most extensive marketing campaign ever in 2022.”