Ireland and Ireland`s national airline, Aer Lingus are rolling out the Welcome Mat for American travelers this spring and summer by extending “1,000 Welcomes”.
Ireland, renowned for its hospitality, now wants American visitors to know they are more welcome than ever. “1,000 Welcomes” combines hundreds of special discounts and offers from travel companies across Ireland exclusively for American travelers flying on Aer Lingus this spring and summer. Offers from complimentary car hire upgrades to free extended stays at hotels to free spa treatments and much more are all included in this nationwide program in Ireland.

Aer Lingus will also launch its “Welcome Fare” campaign as part of this program. The fares start at $149* for spring travel and only $199* for summer travel. In addition, in true welcoming style, Aer Lingus has eliminated a number of historical restrictions, including the need to stay a Saturday night, the requirement to stay a minimum number of days, and change fees (Fares can be changed once prior to and while in Ireland at no charge. See below for details).

The program will start with a launch via a U.S. advertising campaign on Sunday, April 6, will include the distribution of a special “1,000 Welcomes Passport” and “savings guides” downloadable on this site. There are over 400 partners in the program, including hotels, b&b`s, car rental agencies; museums; parks; attractions; golf clubs; spas, restaurants and retailers throughout Ireland`s eight regions.

Jack Foley, Executive Vice President for Aer Lingus said, “I`m delighted to see the entire Irish travel industry come together to offer the American public such a true Irish Welcome. We are excited to be a part of “1,000 Welcomes” by offering special fares with more flexible travel restrictions.”
The program offers customers a special “1,000 Welcomes Passport” via the internet at www.aerlingus.com. The passport, when shown to any of over 400 sites in Ireland will permit the traveler to take advantage of the applicable discount or offer. The passport can be used at the participating sites through the end of August. Included in the program are golf clubs, tourist attractions, parks, restaurants, retailers and much more. For a complete list, click on the “1,000 welcomes” logo on the homepage of this site.

Jim McGuigan, Tourism Ireland`s Executive Vice President, North America said, “We are aware of the high interest in Ireland as a vacation destination and this program will stimulate travel to the Emerald Isle. Now, American travelers to any part of Ireland will be able to get great value on everything from airfares to pub meals and many things in between, as well as enjoying the warm Irish welcome always extended to our visitors from the United States.”

Aer Lingus is offering special spring and summer airfares from each of its five U.S. gateways. The pricing represents a savings of 35% over 2002 rates. Fares are available on this website. For those who prefer to book via telephone, they may call their travel agent or 1-800-IRISH AIR for an additional $10 each way.
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