Travel to Ireland

Ireland is a small, modern, trade-dependent economy with growth averaging a robust 8% in 1995-2002. The global slowdown, especially in the information technology sector, pressed growth down to 2.1% in 2003. Agriculture, once the most important sector, is now dwarfed by industry, which accounts for 46% of GDP and about 80% of exports and employs 28% of the labor force. Although exports remain the primary engine for Ireland's growth, the economy has also benefited from a rise in consumer spending, construction, and business investment. In 2003, Ireland has about 1.26 million Internet users.

Ireland joined in launching the euro currency system in January 1999 along with 10 other EU nations.

Ireland, the Emerald Isle, attracts worldwide tourists by its charming scenery and Irish friendliness. Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, is one of the world top travel destinations with many luxury hotels with excellent services. Dublin Castle, Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral and historic Phoenix Park are some of the tourist attractions of this beautiful and friendly city.

The Portmarnock Hotel is a vintage blend of old and new. Created from the former home of the famous Jameson Whiskey Family, this elegant hotel is set in splendid surroundings overlooking the Islands Of Lambay and Ireland's Eye. Here, you can hear the waves crashing on the nearby beach as a chorus of seabirds makes their presence felt. The Portmarnock Golf Links, designed by the Masters Champion Bernhard Langer, has everything a golfer could wish for. Upon completing his work, Langer commented: "There are very few locations in Europe that could have allowed me the opportunity to design such a classic championship links. I hope all who play it discover its magic and challenging beauty."