Publisher's Synopsis
Tourism Outlook: Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ra! In 2004, figures for American travelers to Ireland headed skyward. More than 820,000 visitors headed to the Emerald Isle, an 8 percent increase over 2003. Total North American figures (including Canada) pushed beyond 980,000, and Bord Failte (the Irish Tourist Board) is confident that the 1,000,000 barrier will be broken in 2005. Green Skies: Surging tourist figures have been helped by things "in the Aer." The national carrier, Air Lingus, revamped in 2004 to become a low-cost, mass-carrier (nearly halfing its ticket prices in the process). In addition, American Airlines has announced it will be now connect Boston to Shannon and Chicago to Dublin, while Continental has recently announced the first flights between Newark and Belfast (Northern Ireland). Thanks to these airlines, tourism figures will stay on the up and up. Strong Sales History: Fodor's Ireland is ranked among the Gold Guides top fifteen bestsellers. The 2005 edition has already sold 15,000 copies since it went on sale in December 2004. Fodor's Kisses the Blarney Stone: Befitting one of Europe's most colorful countries, Fodor's Ireland got a major overhaul in terms of warm and witty writing---the book now has a voice that is personable, companionable, and fun. Be it an enticing as-god-made-green-clover countryside description, a deliscrumptious restaurant review, or a ultradetailed hotel write-up (like the one on Castle Leslie, where Sir Paul mooned with his fair Heather), this book is now a rollicking read. More Budget Options: To combat the strong Euro, Fodor's Ireland features more budget options. Our writers give plenty of tips on doing Dublin on the cheap. The cover will feature a sticker touting "with Best Budget Buys."
