Top global inbound tour operators explore Louth

Twenty top global inbound tour operators are exploring Ireland this week, as guests of Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland. They are here to take part in a B2B workshop in Castlebellingham, Co Louth, connecting with around 50 Irish tourism companies, to negotiate for their programmes for 2026 and beyond.

The tour operators, who are based in Britain, the United States, Asia and South America, deliver business from all over the world. They are preparing to sign contracts for 2026 and beyond, so it is seen as a key time to influence the addition of new tourism products to their programmes that have the potential to deliver more regional and longer-stay business for Ireland.

As well as attending the workshop, the tour operators also took part in a fact-finding visit, to experience for themselves the high standard and variety of our tourism offering. Their action-packed itinerary included a Viking VR Experience at The Glyde Inn, Carlingford Adventure Centre & Skypark, an experience update with On Yer Bike and Carlingford Oyster Company.

Aisling McDermott, Tourism Ireland’s Head of Global Partnerships, said: “Tourism Ireland is delighted to welcome these leading global inbound tour operators to Ireland, to experience some of our many visitor attractions and warm hospitality.

"Our aim is to inspire them to extend the Ireland content of their existing programmes and itineraries, or to include Ireland for the first time in their programmes – helping to secure a greater share of the global travel market for Ireland.”