TRANSATLANTIC TOURISM:IRISH VISITS TO the United States fell by almost 20 per cent in the first five months of the year. The figure dropped by 18 per cent, or about 50,000 people, compared with the same period for 2008.
The US Department of Commerce projects that the overall number of Irish visitors for the year will decline by about 13 per cent, with about 464,000 Irish people visiting the US in 2009, compared with about 525,000 last year.
It believes the 2008 figure will only again be achieved in 2013, with a small decline next year and an increase in 2011. Ireland still ranks 15th in terms of the number of visitors who travel to the US.
Overall, the US tourism market saw a 10 per cent decline, with 20 per cent fewer visits by British tourists. Spending by all international tourists in the US dropped by about 12 per cent.
Stephen J Anderson of the US embassy in Dublin said Irish travel had grown more than 130 per cent since 2000. “For year’s end and into 2010 prospects look more promising, as people look to the United States for better value. Now US travel offers greater value for money – air fares and hotel rates are the lowest in years.”
Early this year the US introduced a regulation that requires Irish travellers to obtain online authorisation before they leave Ireland. US immigration authorities say almost all applicants receive clearance.