Greater Miami & Miami Beach CVB hosted a Christmas lunch for members of the travel industry at Bang Restaurant in Dublin. There were two reasons to celebrate – direct flights from Dublin to Miami with Aer Lingus have returned and Ivan Beacom celebrated turning another year older.
Aer Lingus Goes MIA
Aer Lingus has restarted its direct route from Dublin to Miami after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus. The airline is the only carrier offering direct flights between Ireland and Miami. The route officially relaunched on 21 October and is part of Aer Lingus’ winter schedule operating three times weekly.
“Miami Florida is an ideal destination for every type of traveller whether it be the cruising fanatics, sun seekers, party goers or the keen shoppers, there are endless possibilities. As the only carrier to operate direct flights to Miami from Ireland, we can also cater to the UK and European markets given the seamless connections we offer travellers transiting via Dublin. Restarting our Miami service is a further proof point of our ambition to continue to grow our North American network.” said Susanne Carberry, Aer Lingus Chief Customer Officer.
Aer Lingus highlighted that customers flying to North America with Aer Lingus will enjoy complimentary meals and drinks, endless hours of in-flight entertainment, and US Customs and Border pre-clearance at Dublin and Shannon airports. For more on Aer Lingus’ recently released Summer 2023 schedule including 15 transatlantic routes, check out https://ittn.ie/news/aer-lingus-summer-schedule-released/.
Aer Lingus’ Jenny Rafter Thanks Guests
Jenny Rafter explained the importance of the route in terms of travellers visiting Miami itself as well as for the “cruise & stay” market given its gateway positioning for the Caribbean. She added, “we thank you for all about business and our partnership and we have some fantastic new routes coming online but today is all about Miami and Sunshine State”.
Seb Sarrasin Shares Miami’s Virtues
Seb Sarrasin, Account Director of Greater Miami & Miami Beach CVB, “Thank you very much to all for being here. I’ve been bugging Jenny and Ivan for the last two years. When are you coming back? Or are you coming back? I’m sorry about that. They are back and we are so, so pleased, you have no idea. We really do value the Irish business.
He expanded, explaining how the “UK & Ireland are our biggest source market after the Americas. Miami has had a fantastic couple of years. I know that not many destinations can say the same. Miami’s been on steroids for the last couple of years, but more hotels, more bars, more restaurants, and more rooftop terraces.
He added “We do need your support… We need the UK, we need Ireland, so please do keep supporting us!”
Not Just South Beach!
Seb shared “Think about Miami, about greater Miami and just south beach. It’s there though it’s very much the Temple Bar of Miami. It’s a great destination. It’s not for everybody.”.
It’s one of those iconic places with neon lights and art deco buildings that conjures up movie magic. I’d recommend visiting at least once but as Seb emphasises, there is so much more to Miami.
A Multitude of Neighbourhoods in Miami Ready to be Explored!
Linking it with the popular cruise & stay option, Seb expanded,
“I know that a lot of you here are selling cruises. Think Coral Gables, Coconut Grove… much closer to the port, much quieter as well and much better value”.
Given the strength of the US dollar against the Euro, value for money is even more important.
Seb delivered closing remarks “So just think about Miami as the largest city in South Florida because we are… Try to talk to your customers and make sure you understand their needs and try to allocate the right area for them. And if you are in any doubt, I’m here for you. You can contact me, or email me. And give me your phone call, and I’ll be happy to help!”
Check out Greater Miami & Miami Beach CVB’s website for a rundown of each area – https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/neighborhoods with a few highlights below:
Coral Gables – From historic Mediterranean Revival architecture to a thriving cultural scene, Coral Gables is truly the City Beautiful.
Coconut Grove – A historic hamlet filled with lush parks, sidewalk cafes and indie boutiques, Coconut Grove is a favorite bayfront destination.
Wynwood – Non-stop energy and in-the-moment style are the hallmarks of Wynwood, Miami’s creative and cultural hub. This was a favourite of mine, a cool neighbourhood with street art, boutiques, outdoor museums, craft breweries and a real creative vibe.
Lastly, happy birthday to Mr Ivan Beacon from the ITTN team – hope the celebrations on the milestone stretch into the new year!
