Sure, the Book of Kells is great and everyone loves the Cliffs of Moher, but when are we headed to the pub?
That seems to be the main issue for four out of five tourists who come to Ireland, as figures released in a new report show that the majority of those who come to these shores cite their desire to have a good aul pint in the local as one of the main reasons for their trip.
Given that whenever we go on holiday our main export appears to be Irish theme pubs, these figures are perhaps less surprising, but many have complained that the stereotype of the Irish drinking culture is one that is negative to us.
Paul Carty, however, the managing director of the Guinness Store House, told The Independent that we should play it up instead, focusing on the cultural element, and more on the fact that we have 'the craic' over here: "it’s around conversation, fun, music and all of that. It’s quite unique to Ireland, and something we should dial up and not play down".
Conveniently enough, the report which highlighted these figures was entitled 'The Contribution of the Drinks Industry to Tourism'. Still, it is important to remember that the next time your long-lost cousin comes for a visit, just take them to the pub, that's all they're here for really.
Via The Independent
