A recent article in the Irish Times states Irish Minister for Tourism Mary Hanafin said she was confident tourism would return to growth next year after new figures showed the number of visitors to Ireland was down 15.7 per cent in the first nine months of the year. The good news is that 852,600 UK residents still find Ireland an attractive place to visit. (CSO Nov 2010). So here's a little article if you're popping across to see us form the UK.
Ireland has many tourist attractions which can be enjoyed for free, meaning it is possible to take an affordable trip, especially if you act quickly when cheap flights come on sale.
Firstly, it should be noted that using the bus or train to travel to tourist attractions is by far the most prudent method of getting about. Car rental is an additional cost and fuel prices only add to the amount of money you are forced to spend. Ireland does enjoy an extensive public transport network so consider using it, particularly if you can book in advance or get day saver tickets.
Irish trains tend to be more limiting than buses as they will sometimes only drop you in the centre of towns and cities. This means that you may need to rely upon other forms of transport in order to get out into the countryside. Trains are usually more expensive but they are more comfortable and quicker than buses.
Our lush countryside is one of the major attractions in Ireland, so travelling by bus is advisable, particularly if you want to get out and about. The bus network is reliable and extensive, whilst you will also get to see more of the beautiful scenery above the hedge rows.
Many of the free attractions in Ireland are natural wonders. If it's scenic coastlines you're after, how about the Cliffs of Moher in Co Clare, or the equally beautiful Slieve League in Co Donegal, which are the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The drop to the Atlantic Ocean is a sheer 2,000 feet and it's a splendid sight. The cliffs are remote, meaning you will hike through some of the most unspoilt and dramatic countryside in Ireland. This only adds to the drama of the stunning view once you reach the cliffs.
From the top of the Slieve League, you can go whalewatching - don't forget your binoculars, as you are 2,000 feet away!! In fact, many species of marine mammals can be viewed from Ireland's coastline, including dolphins, whales, orcas, seals and basking sharks, so taking the kids to the coast can make for an enjoyable morning.
Remember that with a little bit of research and you'll be able to find cheap accommodation wherever you stay in Ireland, with some of the best cheap hotels offering promotions all year round.
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