Leading American journalists discover our Great Outdoors

Millions of Americans to read or hear all about the island of Ireland.

Tourism Ireland invited eight American journalists to visit the island of Ireland. The group – many of whom are members of the Outdoor Writers Association of America – includes writers, digital content creators and podcasters, who have a combined audience of millions of readers and followers.

The writers’ action-packed itinerary – which has a focus on ‘green’ experiences and soft adventure – was designed by Tourism NI and Fáilte Ireland and includes a guided cycling tour of the Carlingford Greenway, a Slieve Gullion ‘Mountain, Myth and Legends’ guided walk, Todds Leap Activity Centre, a kayaking experience on Lower Lough Erne, a private tour of the Marble Arch Caves, the National Surf Centre in Sligo, as well as a treetop walk and Boda Borg activity at Lough Key Forest Park.

Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland’s Head of North America, said: “Tourism Ireland was delighted to invite this group of influential writers and content creators to visit the island of Ireland, to come and enjoy some of our superb outdoor activities and sustainable experiences. Through their articles, blogs, posts, videos and podcasts, they will encourage their readers and followers to come and experience our wonderful outdoor activities and beautiful scenery for themselves.

“The United States remains an extremely important market for tourism to the island of Ireland. In 2019, we welcomed 1.7 million American visitors, whose visits delivered €1.6 billion for the economy.”

PIC SHOWS: Seamus McGoldrick (fourth left) and Rebecca Stevens (centre) welcome Ruth Moran, Tourism Ireland (third left), and American journalists and content creators to the National Surf Centre in Strandhill.