Visitors from the US are helping to boost visitor numbers in Ireland.

The mid-west region of the country saw a 23 per cent growth in visitor numbers last year, with over two million Irish and international visitors arriving, according to Shannon Development, the region’s tourism body.

US vacationers love the local color and hospitality that they find in western Ireland and go home with many tales of days and nights enjoyed in the “emerald isle”, which will delight local tourism bosses.

The heritage and tourism director of Shannon Development, John King, said: “The target for visitor number growth for Ireland this year is six per cent.

“We want to achieve this also for the Shannon region, and this is reflected in our marketing strategy.”

Developments with tourists in mind that have opened this year include a mountain bike trail in the Ballyhoura Mountains, as well as hundreds of miles of new walking, activity and cycling paths in the region’s many counties.

When planning a vacation make sure you always have a full travel insurance policy for peace of mind.

Contributed by J.Coggans