German travel agents visit Athlone attractions and Kilbeggan

60 top German travel agents have been visiting Ireland this week. They were here to take part in an important tourism event called ‘Destination Forum’, organised by the German Travel Association (DRV – Deutscher ReiseVerband), which is the umbrella association of the German travel industry, with thousands of member companies.

It is supported by Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, Aer Lingus and fvw | Travel Talk, a German travel trade magazine.

DRV’s ‘Destination Forum’ is an annual workshop event which takes place in a different destination each year. Prior to the workshop, the travel agents took part in various fact-finding visits, to experience for themselves the high standard and variety of our tourism offering. One of the groups visited Kilbeggan Distillery. A second group visited Dead Centre Brewing in Athlone, took a water taxi from Athlone to Clonmacnoise with River Run and visited Celtic Roots Studio. They stayed in Glasson Lakehouse, where they also enjoyed a fun interactive golf session.

Nadine Lehmann, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Germany, said: “We are delighted that DRV has chosen to hold its Destination Forum in Ireland this week and Tourism Ireland, together with Fáilte Ireland, Aer Lingus and fvw, is really pleased to support this important event.

"The aim of the Destination Forum is to grow bookings to the host destination from members of the German Travel Association, helping us to increase German visitor numbers to Ireland in 2024 and beyond. With around 60 top German travel agents in attendance this week, it’s a really fantastic opportunity to showcase what’s on offer here – including Kilbeggan Distillery and Athlone.”