Interesting Facts About the History of Tourism in Ireland

Tourism is one of the most profitable directions for Ireland’s national economy. It is not only about tourists but about additional 200 000 working spaces. Every year the country hosts on average more than 8.0 million travelers, and that’s not a surprise because in 2011 Ireland was recognised as the best family destination by Frommer’s Guide and also one of the world’s friendliest destinations. This is especially popular with people from the United Kingdom, the USA, France and Germany. To learn the secret of popularity read the information below and get acquainted with some interesting facts that will inspire you to plan a trip. 

The first tour was launched in the 17th century

Yes, we are talking about the Grand Tour that was popular for two centuries till the 19th. It has an alike to modern travel basis which included accommodation, shopping, excursions, food and entertainment. Mostly, that educational tour was beloved by boys from the British aristocracy to help them learn architecture and arts for future political careers. In fact, many of them described their experience with the following publication. But in general, that possibility was available only to the upper classes. The Grand Tour led the first admirers of cultural heritage to Ireland and started to love antiquarianism which would establish later a new direction of science – archaeology. Nowadays you have even more opportunities to explore a culture and spend less than the traditional three years. Cars for hire provide a time-saving way of transportation, so throw away any time frames or accurate plans of where to go, and decide independently. Consider the best car hire Dublin airport to check economical variants and suitable locations to pick up right after the flight. 

The primary development of transport in Ireland started a new era of travel

The first connection except for the water appeared in the 18th century, it was the Grand Canal. Building duration took almost 50 years, from 1756 to 2805 and linked Dublin with Shannonbridge, which created new opportunities for trips. Additionally, it was also agreed to set the five hotels on the way for use along the paths. As for transport quality, this one was the best and the most expensive. 

End of the popularity of canal transport

The poor quality of contemporary roads didn’t stop the travelers from getting around and exploring popular ancient gems and fantastic nature. Nowadays, just imagine, in your hands the thing that was available only to the rich man and now it is even extended with novelties. But in the mid-19th century, it changed to the railways and facilitated transportation to the other level. Being an Antiquarian even isn’t necessary to start your own explorations and plan a getaway. Check the books of Edward Lhwyd first to get acquainted with this topic a bit and pick some spots. Hire a car and go on the journey for new impressions. 

Ireland’s nineteenth-century tourism

Ireland’s antiquarian vibe spread well and then grew into The Royal Society of Antiquaries, which was established in 1896 with the purpose to popularize exhibitions from various areas. Kilkenny was the first spot with preserved antiquity, introduced for everyone wishing to explore. Educating the preservation of these subjects had been continuing the public’s interest in culture. And then matched in maps, which became a navigator for archaeologists. In the Victorian era, tourism was more affordable for the middle classes because of improved physical mobility – railways connected more places, even the seasides and then a new leisure activity appeared. Thanks to car hire offers that save money, tourists today have greater freedom and money-saving options. 

The official establishment of tourism at the state level

The first meeting of the Irish Tourist Association was finally presided over by the Minister for Industry and Finance in the second decade of the 20th century. Tourism wasn’t a priority for the government in the postwar period. Some owners of businesses closely connected to tripping were interested in tourism promotions. Nevertheless, the organization had small funding but raised more with the government’s help. 

Conclusion

The chronology indicates that Ireland’s tourism industry has a long history, which accounts for its success. There are numerous entertainment alternatives, including family-friendly ones like Clara Lara Fun Park. Have a great time and use cars for hire!