World / Europe / Ireland

World famous friendliness and a relaxed outlook on life are two things that people often remember about visits to Ireland. Tourism here tends to focus on cosy pubs and bars, where you can't fail to get to know the locals whilst drinking a few pints and singing a few songs. Irish business, however, is no laid-back affair. Ireland's fiercely independent and creative streak has helped create one of the most dynamic modern economies in Europe.

If you're planning holidays in Ireland it will be the fresh air, green countryside, unspoilt coast and lively cities that attract you. But if you're coming for business, you'll find booming cities like Dublin and Cork are now a match for any in Europe with sophisticated hotels, conference centres and transport facilities. From the mountains of Galway and inspiring coast of Kerry to the lush green valleys and grand country estates of the east, Ireland has a habit of making visitors feel welcome. Whether you spend your days seeing business contacts or seeing sights, you'll find warm people, always ready for a chat with a stranger. In the age of U2, stand-up comedians and world-famous race-horses, this is still a land of ancient castles and abbeys, rugged hills and green pastures watered by the famously erratic climate. And when it comes to green attractions, Ireland's golf courses are among the finest in the world. Even business visitors have been known to visit them - for useful networking duties, of course.