World-Class Incentive Tourism Product

Northern Ireland’s appeal as a top destination for incentive visitors was boosted at a recent showcase event held at the British Ambassador’s residence in Dublin.

Designed to promote Northern Ireland as a world-class destination for corporate clients, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s Business Tourism event was attended by seventeen destination management companies who are responsible for bringing incentive tourists into Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Addressing guests, Tourism Minister for Northern Ireland Arlene Foster said: “In recent times Northern Ireland has become an attractive destination for international incentive visitors. The next three years represent an important time for tourism in Northern Ireland with developments such as the opening of the Titanic signature building in Belfast and the completion of the new Causeway visitor centre. Despite the current economic conditions, we are continuing to invest in our tourism infrastructure, focusing on continually improving our visitor experience and demonstrating that we are very much open for business as a world-class business tourism destination.”

The evening centered around a spectacular six course dining experience based around the six counties of Northern Ireland. Liz Moore, Head Chef and Principal Tutor at Belle Isle Cookery School, County Fermanagh designed and prepared the menu. Liz addressed the dining room after service and spoke passionately about the food and beverage producers who partnered with NITB for the event. A generous selection of top class Northern Ireland produce was sponsored by artisan producers. Having previously cooked for Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, Liz Moore is no stranger to catering for high profile diners who expect only the best. It was therefore no surprise that the guests who attended the evening were very impressed.

Ronan Flood, Advantage ICO, Dublin, commented “…it really was a spectacular evening and if that is the standard of hospitality that can be expected then we will hopefully be doing more business in Northern Ireland soon.”

This showcase event is part of an NITB Business Tourism Unit led initiative aimed at facilitating partnership opportunities between incentive tourism product providers in Northern Ireland and destination management companies in the Republic of Ireland.