By Geoff Percival,Stephen Aherne

Copyright ittn

Six German journalists, writing for various print and online media outlets with a combined reach of around 3 million readers, have been exploring Derry-Londonderry, as guests of Tourism Ireland and Tourism NI.

The group’s itinerary was designed to shine a spotlight on the city’s rich culture and heritage and included the Peacemakers Museum, a foodie tour with Derry By Fork and a visit to the Walled City Brewery. Beyond the city, the group also visited Glenshane Country Farm, GORTA – Swatragh’s Famine Story, Seamus Heaney HomePlace and enjoyed a guided tour on Carntogher Mountain. Downhill Beach, Mussenden Temple, the Giant’s Causeway and a Spirit of The Bann Food Experience also featured on their busy programme.

Tourism Ireland has a strong focus on driving more business to the island of Ireland’s regions and activity includes its ‘twinning’ initiative – with each overseas market paired with a specific part of the island, to accelerate the organisation’s focus on regional growth of tourism revenue. Germany is twinned with Derry-Londonderry.

Nadine Lehmann, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Germany, said: “We are delighted to welcome this group of influential German journalists to Derry-Londonderry, giving them the opportunity to discover the rich cultural heritage in the city and surrounding area and to experience first-hand the exceptional quality of our tourism offering.

“From immersive visitor attractions to our warm hospitality, this part of Northern Ireland has so much to offer. We’re confident that the stories these journalists share on their return will inspire readers across Germany to choose Derry-Londonderry for their next holiday.”