Ten million Indian viewers to see the best side of Galway

A major Indian travel TV channel, travelxp HD, visited Galway and Ireland last week, as guests of Tourism Ireland. They were here to record some of the unique experiences that their viewers can enjoy on holiday in this part of Ireland.

The travel programme, which will air in the autumn, will be seen by more than 10 million viewers across India who have a passion for travel and adventure.

The crew captured footage at Dunguaire Castle, the Galway Market, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, Roundstone village and Ballyconneely peninsula.

They filmed horse-riding on Omey strand in Cleggan; and also visited Kylemore Abbey, Killary Harbour, Delphi Lodge and Tullycross village.

During their time in Galway, the crew dined at Mitchell’s Seafood Restaurant and stayed at the Zetland House Hotel and the Quay House in Clifden.

Jim Paul, Tourism Ireland’s head of Australia and developing markets, said: “We are delighted that travelxp HD agreed to come and film in Galway and Ireland, showcasing some of the unique experiences Indian holidaymakers can enjoy here.

“Travel programmes such as this are an excellent way for Tourism Ireland to get positive exposure for Galway in India. This programme will be seen by more than ten million potential Indian holidaymakers – encouraging them to come and experience Ireland for themselves.

“India is an important emerging market and one that Tourism Ireland is committed to growing over the coming years. With a rapidly-growing middle class and rising disposable incomes, the number of Indian people travelling overseas has grown by about +12% over the past six years; and forecasts for the coming years suggest an even greater rise.

“While visitor numbers from India are small, when compared to our more established tourism markets, it is important to remember that visitors from India spend more and stay longer than the average visitor.”

Tourism Ireland aims to capitalise on the fact that India is now one of the fastest-growing tourist-generating countries in the world and grow the number of Indian tourists to the island of Ireland from the current estimated 21,000 per year. India is expected to reach 50 million outbound travellers by 2020.