Ireland is showing the highest rise in overnight stays to Germany within the past five years. Latest figures released by the German National Tourist Office show an increase of 7.5% for January-February 2014, compared to the same period in 2013.
Interest in the 25th anniversary of the Fall of the Berlin Wall (2014) and German Reunification (2015) www.germany.travel/en/germany-reunified/25-perspectives/perspective-20-voelklingen-ironworks.html , the increasing interest in German cities (numbers from Ireland to Berlin regularly top the visitor statistics), and the excellent value for money that Germany offers, have all kept Germany in the travel spotlight. Culture is another reason (e.g. celebrating Heinrich Böll Memorial Weekends) and this year Germany is highlighting its 38 UNESCO sites, which are also expected to attract a lot of interest from Ireland.
Klaus Lohmann, Director, GNTO UK & Ireland, said: “We are delighted to see an increase in visitors from Ireland. In addition to the long-standing cultural connections between Ireland and Germany, visitors are attracted by the excellent value for money in Germany and the enormous diversity of things to see and do, whatever your interest. Increased direct flight routes are also an important factor.”
The GNTO also recently launched its new ‘Barrier Free’ accessible travel website and multi-media campaign, established solely to offer ideas, inspiration and help for anyone looking for a holiday who may need special assistance. “We hope this additional accessible travel campaign will truly help to demonstrate the diversity and freedom of travel in Germany,” Klaus added.
