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Kimye and Khaleesi, the perfect blend for Irish tourism

It seems the world can’t get enough of Ireland after Kim Kardashian, Kanye and Game of Thrones put the country’s rolling green hills back on the travel bucket list.

It seems the world can’t get enough of Ireland after Kim Kardashian, Kanye and Game of Thrones put the country’s rolling green hills back on the travel bucket list.

Tourism in Ireland had already experienced a healthy boost after HBO decided to film their hit series, Game of Thrones among the republic’s lavish scenery. G.O.T fans, willing to travel to Ireland, felt they had a chance to connect with the characters fighting for the Iron Throne.

Now, after Hollywood newlyweds Kim Kardashian and Kanye West chose Ireland for their honeymoon, the republic has become somewhat of hot spot tourist destination.

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Ireland’s Tourism Minister, Paschal Donohoe has stated that visitors to Ireland from Great Britain have increased by 11.3 per cent, with an extra 178,200 visitors on last year. However, it isn’t just the Brits who have gotten a taste for all things Irish.

According to research, conducted The Economic and Social Research Institute in Dublin, Ireland is set to welcome 8.5 million overseas visitors in 2014, an eight per cent increase over 2013.

Nonetheless, much like the clans of G.O.T, travellers are divided and choose to spend their time in either the “Hollywood” or “Westeros” camps. Travellers wishing to step into the shoes of Kimye are more likely to head to County Limerick and County Laois where the couple spent a few days in luxury confines after their wedding. Those wanting to relive their favourite G.O.T moments favour Northern Ireland.

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Pictured: The cast of HBO series, Game of Thrones.

Regardless of the divide, Ireland’s travel sector was quick to pick up on the trend. Travel companies in Ireland and the US are offering G.O.T tours from Dublin and Belfast. While there isn’t a Kimye tour yet on the cards, the influx of interest is certainly a welcome treat to
the country.

Is Ireland on your bucket list?