Fáilte Ireland’s biggest and most important travel trade show Meitheal starts today in Dublin and Sligo Food Trail are well represented by Aisling Kelly, Sligo Oyster Experience and Anthony Gray (Eala Bhán and Hooked restaurants). It’s a two day ‘speed dating’ set up with influential overseas buyers from all over the world.

Last week, in the build up to Meitheal, Sligo welcomed a visit from some of these key international buyers on a tailor-made fact finding tour. The tours are organised by Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority, in conjunction with Tourism Ireland. The group visited Sligo Oyster Experience and Irish Seaweed Kitchens on Sligo Food Trail.

Speaking about the importance of these trips, Fáilte Ireland’s Eve Costello, Manager for the Wild Atlantic Way emphasised:

“With world-class scenery, hospitality, activities, attractions, culture, heritage and food, it is little wonder that tourists from every corner of the globe set their sights on Ireland. Driving growth in the regions through tourism is a key priority for us at Fáilte Ireland and through tailored trips, we can show top international buyers Ireland’s cultural riches and tourism offerings, which they can then sell on to their customers around the world.  This will ensure Ireland and Sligo is on everybody’s map and itinerary for 2020 and beyond.”