The number of visitors to Ireland is up this year and the Irish tourism industry is reporting a "good recovery" in the figures.
The US is leading the way with a 12 percent increase in numbers, a dramatic increase from 2010. More Americans traveling and cheaper hotels and restaurants are also having a major impact.
According to data collated by Tourism Ireland, figures show a 9 percent increase in overseas visitors to the Republic and a 4 percent increase in visitors to Northern Ireland in the first quarter of the year.
There has been an increase of 7 percent in the number of visitors from the UK, 12 percent from North America, 10 percent from mainland Europe and 5 percent from elsewhere, reports the Irish Times.
Passengers to Dublin airport are up 7 percent. However, regional airports are struggling.
A recovery in visitor numbers will only occur if the UK market recovers to pre-recession levels, stated Tourism Ireland in its mid-year Situation and Outlook Analysis and Report (Soar).
Global tourism is seeing a worldwide increase, with 4 to 5 percent growth, with a 6 percent growth in Europe.
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