According to a recent report by travel consultants RDC Aviation, 160,000 fewer travellers came through Dublin Airport in December 2009 compared to the same period last year. The total drop in overseas visits in the first 10 months of the year was more than 800,000 – down from 6.8 million to six million. As passenger numbers fall, Ireland must fight to keep the tourism industry afloat.
Like many businesses, the Irish tourism industry is now dependent on domestic support. While most people are happy to support Irish produce, few are willing to forego their foreign holiday for a more familiar sojourn in the Emerald Isles. Realistically, Irish consumers can expect to pay the same if not more to holiday at home as they would if they travelled abroad. So, if they won’t make obvious savings, what’s the incentive for people to stay local?
The problems facing the tourism industry reflect Ireland’s difficult economic situation. We are desperate for the economy to start moving, yet we aren’t giving it the push it needs. People are afraid to spend. If they are going to spend, they at least want assurance that they are receiving value for money. As we face another tough financial year, will you be looking to support the Irish economy regardless of the cost or will you be looking to save as much money as possible despite the consequences?
Tags: holiday ideas, Savings, travel
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