Economic Benefits Of Visiting Ireland
Putting aside the soothing beauty of Ireland, there are a lot of economic benefits that should be taken into account. Foreign visitors come to the Emerald Isle for a variety of reasons, from the supposedly spectacular landscapes, the charming locals, the unique heritage and from the values of the Irish people. More than that, Ireland is one of the countries in Europe that offer the most beneficial conditions for foreign investment and has the ability to operate as a business hub for corporate travelers.
Tourism is consistently on the rise in the country, seeing a 5.3% growth in 2018 alone, according to the European Travel Commission, and Ireland is now the second favorite spot for international travelers on the continent. Moreover, according to a World Economic Forum analysis, Ireland has one of the best business environments in Europe. All of this adds up to a lot of economic prowess that makes visiting Ireland a pretty good idea:
- Professional opportunities for business people.
- A good infrastructure that facilitates travel and business engagements.
- Access to highly-qualified personnel.
- Financing facilities from the Irish government.
- Incentives such as extended tax holidays and access to venture capital.
- The possibility of finding ideal partners for joint ventures.
- The world’s second-fastest internet speed, after Singapore.
Industrial specialists consider Ireland to be an ideal place for starting or expanding a business due to its low corporate tax rates and its strong governmental support in encouraging foreign investment. According to the Irish government website, Invest Ireland, foreign investment into the country increased by 10% year-on-year.
What’s more, the country’s international reputation is on the rise. For instance, the 2017 Global Peace Index ranks Ireland first as the safest country in the world. This is very good news, particularly since the Irish capital is almost always included among the top destinations in the world for economy and growth.
The Tourist Hotspots
Tourists flock to Ireland for its small towns, unspoiled beaches, rugged scenery, and friendly locals. The Irish countryside is a treasured repository of stories, legends, and friendly locals. Dublin, the capital, is a pleasant city full of culture – museums, theatres, galleries, and pubs. Dublin is home to Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and St. Stephen’s Green. The seaport city of Cork is known for its two cathedrals, an ornate city hall, and the Church of Saint Anne. Galway is a buzzing town that has numerous pubs, churches, and shopping spots. The Cliffs of Mohr are breathtaking, the Aran Islands are a delight, and the backstreets of Dublin have their own charm.
There are almost too many places to explore in Ireland and it is a delight to travelers who wish to explore its beauty. Dublin is full of culture and art, and even the seemingly plain streets of Cork and Limerick ooze a rustic charm that one cannot ignore. While cities are great tourist hotspots, those who really want to experience the true colors of Ireland should also check out the small villages – the truly spectacular beauty of the country lies in places like the Burren, Connemara, Dingle, and the Giant’s Causeway.
Ireland’s Gastronomic Offerings
Food is a big part of any cultural exploration, as it allows one to gain insight into the local cuisine. Ireland, in particular, has some of the most fascinating dishes one might find. For starters, there are the classics – “Irish Stew”, “Cottage Pie”, and potatoes in all its varieties (mashed, boiled, fried, etc.). Irish food is also rich in fish – salmon, oysters, mackerel, etc. – and different types of cheese.
In addition, Ireland also has some interesting dishes with its own unique flavors. Irish Bacon and Watercress Pie, Irish Stew with Guinness, Dry Cured Smoked Bacon, and traditional Irish Black and White Pudding are some of the most popular ones. As for the drinks, Guinness and Irish whiskey are staples in many restaurants and pubs.
Irish Culture And Music
Culture and music go hand-in-hand in Ireland, and many come to get a taste of both. Musical traditions are still very much alive in the country, with dancing and singing clubs a common sight. Traditional Irish music is often played on flutes, penny whistles, or the bodhrán; it is lively and energetic and often accompanies dance performances. Celtic music is also popular, and many bands release an eclectic mix of Celtic and traditional Irish music.
Several music festivals take place throughout the year such as the Galway Arts Festival, the Cork Folk Festival, the Dublin Tradfest, and Trad-Fest, amongst many others. These fun festivals are filled with dances, parades, and other activities. Music is also part of many Irish towns, with regular jam sessions held in pubs and restaurants.
Ireland’s Heritage And Arts Scene
Ireland boasts a rich history and culture that dates back centuries. In the Middle Ages, it was a powerful kingdom and had a highly developed political system. This period was marked by the emergence of great literary works such as legendary tales and sagas.
Today, Ireland is home to numerous cultural heritage sites and museums that keep its history alive. These include the Irish National Heritage Park, the Little Museum of Dublin, Dublin Castle, and the National Botanic Gardens. Dublin also has one of the finest art galleries in the world – the National Gallery of Ireland.
Events In Ireland
A great way to explore the culture of Ireland is to attend one of the country’s many events. These range from traditional music and dance festivals, to literary festivals, and tech conferences. Dublin is the ideal place to attend such events, as it is the country’s main hub for the arts.
Some of the renowned festivals include the Dublin Theatre Festival, the Dublin Writers’ Festival, the Dublin Tech Summit, and the Dublin Horse Show. All in all, these events offer a unique cultural experience and serve as a great way to meet locals and exchange ideas.
Overall Conclusion About Ireland
To sum up, Ireland is ultimately the perfect destination for those wanting to explore a unique culture and visit stunning natural attractions. Aside from the breathtaking landscapes, the county is filled with friendly locals, great food, and a lively music and arts scene. Even more, there are several economic benefits of visiting Ireland that makes it a great choice for businesspeople.
All in all, Ireland is the ideal place for those who wish to experience a different way of life and enjoy the best of both worlds – a modern, vibrant culture, and a spectacular natural landscape.
