Holiday at home

We’re not proposing that you never set foot on a plane again, but why not consider what Ireland has to offer before taking the next flight overseas and clocking up your carbon emissions? Long haul flights and numerous short flights for weekend breaks account for a very large proportion of the average Irish person’s direct greenhouse gas emissions. Even if you decide to holiday in Ireland and use your car extensively, your travel emissions will be far lower than those that would be generated if you took a flight overseas.
 
With 6.6 million overseas tourists choosing to visit Ireland in 2009, our country is a hugely popular tourist destination with its varied green landscape, a rich cultural heritage, and a wide range of activities to cater for all interests.
 
Have you ever been to the Boyne Valley , home to some of the most cherished prehistoric megalithic art of Europe , or the Skellig Michael monastic complex? Both of these attractions are UNESCO world heritage sites which are internationally recognised and draw in tourists from around the world.
 
Why not join the millions of overseas tourists in appreciating Ireland ’s natural and cultural heritage - try and take at least one holiday at home yearly. You will lower your carbon footprint by avoiding air travel and at the same time support the national economy.

Check out the Discover Ireland website (www.discoverireland.ie) for holiday ideas in Ireland . The website is run by Fáilte Ireland , the national tourism development authority, and provides a wealth of information on what to do, where to go and where to stay in Ireland .

Benefits of Holidaying at Home:

• Reduced carbon footprint due to avoided air travel

• Convenience - avoid airport hassle!

• No jet lag

• Potential shorter travel journey

• Beautiful landscape, heritage and culture to explore – right on your doorstep!

Ecotourism

Ecotourism involves responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people.(The International Ecotourism Society - TIES 2005)
 
Ecotourism is a growing area and there are now many companies offering low-environmental impact holidays, accommodation, activities etc. Do a simple web search for ‘sustainable holidays’, ‘eco-tourism destinations’, or ‘green travel’ to see what’s on offer.

Cycling or walking are particularly suited to ecotourism as they produce little if any emissions and will help you to fully immerse yourself in your chosen holiday destination.