The western region director of B&B Ireland has welcomed the positive response to the new star ratings system for the bed and breakfast sector, adding that customers can now choose the standard they require. Carmel Murray of Ocean Villa B&B, Kingstown, Clifden in Co Galway, was speaking in Dublin at the annual conference of B&B Ireland, the body which represents the sector nationally.
“Bed and breakfast accommodation provided throughout Ireland plays a hugely important role in our tourism industry attracting overseas visitors who want to sample this true Irish experience,” Ms Murray said. “B&Bs offer visitors an authentic stay in the heart of the community, some great local knowledge and a personalised service.”
Visitors can now choose the quality of accommodation they want in a B&B holiday. The new Fáilte Ireland ratings scheme was launched earlier this year and already some 450 B&Bs have received three to five star ratings. Entries for 2011 are expected to rise significantly, according to B&B Ireland chairperson Margaret Cahill.
“We have embraced the technology needed to offer the sort of online service consumers and tour operators need, and our bookings on www.bandbireland.com have remained relatively steady despite the challenge of the global recession,” Ms Cahill said. “We have also responded to consumer demands through another innovation within our sector, in that individual homes can offer holiday breaks tailored to a special interest such as walking, angling, golf, farm stays, etc. This will further enhance the uniqueness of the B&B offer and highlight the excellent range of natural and world class products throughout Ireland.”
