Belgian and Dutch Travel Professionals Discover Northern Ireland

Nine travel professionals from Belgium and the Netherlands recently explored Northern Ireland, hosted by Tourism Ireland and Tourism NI. This visit aimed to strengthen ties with key partners who play a crucial role in attracting Belgian and Dutch visitors to the region annually.

The itinerary included a range of activities showcasing the diverse attractions of Northern Ireland. In Fermanagh, the group participated in a guided walking tour of Enniskillen, engaged in hydro-biking on Lough Erne, and visited the historic Florence Court. They also trekked along the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail and enjoyed a cruise with Erne Water Taxi.

The experience continued in Belfast, where the professionals learned about the city’s rich history through DC Tours. They explored the local culinary scene with Taste and Tour, visited St George’s Market, and toured Titanic Belfast, gaining insights into the city’s heritage and attractions.

Karen van der Horst, Tourism Ireland’s Manager for Northern Europe, expressed her enthusiasm: “We’re delighted these influential Belgian and Dutch travel professionals have had the opportunity to experience for themselves a flavour of Northern Ireland’s superb tourism offering. With direct flights from Amsterdam to Belfast, the Netherlands is a key potential Mainland European market.”

She emphasized the significance of familiarizing these travel agents with Northern Ireland’s offerings, noting that this visit serves as an ideal platform to highlight accessibility for Dutch holidaymakers. By showcasing the region’s unique experiences, the aim is to secure a greater share of future travel bookings from these countries.

The initiative by Tourism Ireland and Tourism NI reflects a broader strategy to enhance Northern Ireland’s visibility in international markets, ensuring that it remains a prominent destination for European travelers.