Huge plans to attract more than two million tourists to Northern Ireland
Tourism Ireland launch bid to make it a bumper 2018
Tourism chiefs have unveiled ambitious plans to bring 2.3 million visitors to Northern Ireland in 2018.
After a record-breaking 2017, Tourism Ireland says it is setting even higher targets.
It is aiming to generate £623m from overseas visitors next year.
During 2018, the profile of major themes and attractions will continue to be raised across the world.
These include the Causeway Coastal route, Titanic Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway and various National Trust properties throughout the province.
Northern Ireland’s world-class golf courses including the Royal Portrush where the the 18th Open will take place in 2019.
Tourism Ireland also intend to build on the reputation of the Game of Thrones success and it also says it will “capitalise” on the 300th anniversary of the 1718 Ulster Scots migration to the US.
“2017 is set to be another record year for overseas tourism to Northern Ireland,” said Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland.
“Throughout the year, Tourism Ireland undertook a packed programme of promotions, to bring Northern Ireland to the attention of travellers everywhere.
“Thousands of opportunities were created for potential visitors around the world to read, hear or watch positive messages about Northern Ireland; Tourism Ireland estimates that this media exposure is worth an estimated £100 million in equivalent advertising value.
“We are heading into 2018 in a position of some strength, based on the success of 2017. Our aim is to position Northern Ireland as a year-round, ‘must visit’ destination and to ensure that the contribution of overseas tourism to the local economy continues to expand.