Picture Special: Local experts get to ‘Know Donegal’ with Fáilte Ireland

Fáilte Ireland is this week holding workshops on its new KNOW DONEGAL Local Experts Programme initiative for over 111 attendees who are involved in the tourism sector and the local community, who welcome and engage with visitors to Donegal.

The programme kicked-off on Tuesday, 26^th June with a number of interactive workshops on what to see and do in Donegal at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Letterkenny with additional workshops on Wednesday, 27^th June.

Attendees gained a wealth of knowledge and tips for sharing with visitors so they have a positive experience of the county: from knowing where Donegal’s great walking routes are, to planning free family days out, to recommending restaurants with the best Donegal food.

At the core of this programme is a network of local people who came together to share local knowledge to help visitors make the most of their visit to Donegal. The programme will also feature a number of annual events, social media initiatives, a Visitor Attractions pass and the future development of a tourism business network.

Explaining the programme, Amanda Boyle, Visitor Engagement, with Fáilte Ireland said that those attending came from a diverse range of tourism businesses who all wanted to provide visitors with the best experience of Donegal, its attractions and people:

“Donegal’s historical buildings and towns, its stunning landscapes and world class festivals are brought to life every day by the front line employees and volunteers. Visitors not only seek out local people and their advice, they trust it. This programme aims to build on the good work already happening on the ground and inspire all front line employees and volunteers to turn every visitor interaction into a truly informative and positive experience.”

Irene Sweeney of Castle Grove Country House, Letterkenny, said that they were delighted to attend the Programme workshop as it provided an opportunity for tourism businesses from all over the county to meet and share positive experiences.

“This is a fantastic event with a large number of tourism businesses attending over the two days to hear from Fáilte Ireland and each other on how we can further ensure that visitors to the our towns and county are provided with a first-class and positive tourism experience when they visit. The numbers attending are testament to the importance of tourism to Donegal and the determination of local people to make sure that the vital economic contribution that visitors bring to our local economy continues to have a positive impact.”

Those seeking more information on the Programme can email: localexperts@failteireland.ie.

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