They were here as guests of Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland and Etihad Airways.
The travel agents – who all won a place on the fact-finding trip to Northern Ireland at the annual Magellan Travel Awards – are here to experience some of the many attractions and experiences on offer for Australian visitors, so that when they return home, they will be better informed to advise their clients when planning and booking their holidays to Northern Ireland.
The trip was also a good opportunity to highlight ease of access to the island of Ireland from Australia – with Etihad Airways, via Abu Dhabi.
Following an itinerary designed by Tourism NI, the group enjoyed a trip along the Causeway Coastal Route, stopping off at various Game of Thrones locations en route, such as Ballygally, Carnlough, Cushendun and Ballintoy. The agents also spent time at the Giant’s Causeway and in Belfast, where they visited the Ulster Museum and Titanic Belfast.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland to this group of top Australian travel agents,” said Sofia Hansson, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Australia.
“There is really no substitute for being able to come here and experience what Northern Ireland has to offer at first-hand. Our aim is that when these travel agents return home, they will be really enthusiastic about the destination, helping to secure a greater share of their business for Northern Ireland.”
