Over 60 pc of people in Ireland recommend taking a domestic holiday, with the country’s landscapes and local culture ranking as the top reasons to stay within the country
Rural tourism in Ireland is set to receive a boost, as short-term rental giant Airbnb, has announced the launch of the Rural Tourism Fund. The company is committing EUR 100,000 in grants to support innovative tourism projects in rural communities, aiming to enhance local experiences, support small businesses, and promote lesser-explored regions of Ireland.
In a press statement Airbnb says that this initiative aims to bolster tourism in areas that rely heavily on local visitors, providing essential financial support for local businesses and families.
It adds that the fund will offer grants ranging from EUR 1,000 to EUR 10,000 for local organisations and community groups looking to launch or expand tourism initiatives.
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The statement adds that the projects can range from local festivals to upgrading community facilities, all designed to enhance rural tourism and attract visitors to lesser-known regions.
Recent research by Airbnb reveals that, despite 74 pc of Irish people travelling abroad at least once a year, 48 pc express a desire to explore more of their own country. However, while many Irish people travel abroad, they often overlook domestic destinations. For instance, 82 p have never visited Leitrim, and 76 pc have never been to Westmeath.
It adds that despite these statistics, 60 pc of people in Ireland recommend taking a domestic holiday, with the country’s landscapes and local culture ranking as the top reasons to stay within the country.
According to Airbnb the rural tourism fund comes at a time when 71 pc of Airbnb bookings in Ireland are made in rural areas, showing the growing importance of these regions to the country’s tourism industry.
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It adds that through this initiative, Airbnb hopes to inspire more Irish people to take domestic holidays, while simultaneously supporting rural communities that benefit from tourism revenue.
Derek Nolan,
It further adds that the funding will help local projects aimed at fostering experience for both locals and visitors alike.
“We are fortunate to have some of the world’s most stunning places right here in Ireland, and it’s exciting to see nearly half of Irish people eager to explore more of our own country. Airbnb plays a key role in spreading tourism across Ireland, and the Rural Tourism Fund will boost and preserve the best of rural Ireland, allowing more people to experience our culture and beauty while benefiting local communities economically,” says Derek Nolan, Head of Public Policy for Ireland, Airbnb.
“It is brilliant that there is a growing desire for Irish people to explore more on our own shores. I have welcomed guests from America and all over Europe that are eager to experience the scenery and lively festivals local to us, and I would love to see more Irish families coming to embrace the beautiful countryside in their own backyard. With Airbnb boosting local tourism offerings through the new Rural Tourism Fund, I hope surrounding communities will be able to share even more in the benefits of welcoming visitors from Ireland and beyond,” says Shelagh Nangle, Host, Westmeath.
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