International tour operators explore ‘Best of the West’ of Northern Ireland

Top international tour operators have been exploring the Ulster American Folk Park as part of a fact-finding trip to Northern Ireland. The tour operators were invited here by Tourism Ireland, in conjunction with Tourism NI, to participate in the annual Meet the Buyer workshop in the Eikon Exhibition Centre in Lisburn. 

The tour operators’ ‘Embrace the Best of the West’ themed tour of Northern Ireland – which took place ahead of the workshop – also included the Marble Arch Caves, Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, Belleek Pottery, Enniskillen Castle, Erne Water Taxi and Blessingbourne Country Estate.

Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland, said: “Tourism Ireland is delighted to bring 129 top international tourism buyers from 14 markets to Northern Ireland for Meet the Buyer 2025 – including 46 buyers who are here for the first time. This is a key event in the industry calendar and a great opportunity for our local tourism partners to connect with our international tour operator partners, who bring valuable tourists to Northern Ireland and the island.

“Tourism Ireland has an extensive programme of promotions in place for 2025.  We will launch a new campaign across 13+ overseas markets, to win hearts, minds and trips, and we continue to collaborate with air and sea carriers to support demand for vital routes to Northern Ireland. Sporting moments like The Open at Royal Portrush present a key opportunity, with promotional activity well under way. Festivals across Northern Ireland create additional moments to spotlight, as we win holidays from overseas visitors to grow the benefits of tourism right throughout the year. We’re taking every opportunity to shine a spotlight on Northern Ireland, showcasing iconic reasons to travel here and expanding people’s bucket lists from best-known spots to hidden gems.”