Ireland has been named 'Best Potential Destination' for 2014 at an awards ceremony in China. Ireland took the top spot for the destination offering the most potential for Chinese travellers.
We beat strong competition in the same category from Turkey, Sweden, South Africa, Dubai, Kenya and Queensland. The awards are organised by the largest online travel agent in China, 'Ctrip'.
Over the past two months almost three million Ctrip members took part in the online survey, nominating their favourite travel destinations.
The award was presented to Tourism Ireland at a ceremony in Shanghai.
Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said "We are absolutely delighted that Ireland has been singled out for this award – which is certainly a positive indication of the increasing awareness of Ireland among Chinese travellers".
"We believe that this market represents a significant opportunity for Irish tourism and we are committed to growing visitor numbers from China - from approximately 17,000 visitors in 2012 to 50,000 per year, over the coming five years" he added.
The award was presented to Tourism Ireland at a ceremony in Shanghai.
Outbound travel from China has grown over recent years, with the number of international trips growing significantly and forecasts for the next decade suggesting an even greater rise.
Tourism Ireland has offices in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and Chengdu and is also undertaking a programme of promotions in China.
Meanwhile the tourism body says it has a particularly busy programme of activity there in the run-up to St. Patrick’s Day. This will culminate in the 'greening' of the Oriental Pearl Radio and TV Tower in Shanghai on March 17th.
