THE Republic is now by far the North's biggest source of tourists Lord Rathcavan, chairman of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB), said yesterday. The number of visitors from the Republic reached 470,000 in 1995, an increase of 20 per cent. For the first time, the North's visitor total topped the 1.5 million mark.
Growth is set to continue, Lord Rathcavan said. Bookings made through the board's office since January 1st have increased by 35 per cent over the previous year.
Lord Rathcavan also revealed details of a survey carried out last summer which revealed "extremely positive post ceasefire satisfaction".
The survey showed that 92 per cent of visitors interviewed said they would return to Northern Ireland on holiday. Over a third of visitors from the Republic said they would return to Northern Ireland within one year. Prior to the ceasefire, said Lord Rathcavan, surveys showed that 70 per cent of residents of the Republic had never stayed overnight in the North.
The survey recommended the provision of additional hostel, B&B and budget hotel beds. It also recommended that food should be provided that is aimed at visitors as well as the local market. Also suggested were Sunday opening, more foreign language services and action on litter and public toilets.
A US airline, World Airways, will provide a direct Los Angeles Belfast service this year, according to Lord Rathcavan.