The GCC is the fastest growing market for inbound tourism to Ireland, with a 52.78 per cent increase in Visa applications in March this year over the same month in 2009, a report said.

Tourism Ireland is promoting the Top 10 things to see and do in Ireland at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) exhibition, following the year-on-year surge in Visa applications from the region.

Simon Gregory, director of all markets for Tourism Ireland, attributes the growth to increased connectivity and growing awareness of the breadth of holidays on offer in Ireland.

“Ireland truly has something for everyone, from culture and luxury boutique hotels, to self catering and activity holidays. Through our participation at ATM we hope to make bookers and agents, as well as the public, aware of all the island of Ireland has to offer,” he said.

Tourism Ireland’s top 10 things to see and do in Ireland:

1. Dublin
Visit Dublin for its metropolitan atmosphere, easy charm and countless sights. Combine a visit to the Trinity College Library to see the Book of Kells, dating back to 800 AD, with a spot of shopping on Grafton Street and Temple Bar. Stay in five star luxury in the heart of Dublin at The Westbury, Grafton Street.

2. Golf
With 345 beautiful green golf courses to choose from, Ireland cannot be beaten for golf. The Enniscrone Golf Club off the beaten path in County Sligo is often referred to as one of Ireland's best kept secrets.

3. Galway
You will find Irish song, dance and music everywhere you turn in Galway city, and Irish is as widely spoken as English. In recent years it has also become the country’s trendy unofficial arts capital. The G Hotel, designed by the 20th century’s best loved hat designer Philip Treacy, is the ultimate in cool places to stay. Watersport enthusiasts also flock to the area for big wave surfing.

4. The Ritz Carlton Powerscourt
This tranquil country estate can trace its origins back to the 12th century. The historical building now oozes elegance and glamour, and the ESPA treatments at the spa offer luxurious indulgence.

5. Belfast
Having left its turbulent past behind, the capital of Northern Ireland is now infused with vibrancy and optimism. Combine a stay at one of the city’s boutique hotels with a tour of the Antrim coast, lined with natural wonders. Bring a picnic for the beautiful Glens of Antrim, cross the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge if you dare, and be wowed by the Giant’s Causeway, before continuing up to the walled city of Derry.

6. The Ring of Kerry
This is one of Ireland’s most scenic drives, and offers an itinerary of waterfalls, an old abbey, and picturesque villages, all within the wilderness of Kerry’s mountain range. It is a 179 km circular route, and can be started anywhere.

7. Cork
Named one of the top 10 cities in the world by Lonely Planet this year, Cork is rapidly gaining a reputation as one of Europe's hippest cities. Every corner gives way to another architectural gem and some of the best art galleries, theatres and museums in Ireland. No visit is complete without a trip to Blarney Castle, home to the famous Blarney Stone, which according to legend will give those who kiss it the gift of eloquence.

8. Cliffs of Moher
One of Ireland’s top attractions, the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare loom 214 metres over the Atlantic Ocean at its highest point. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway bay.

9. Horse riding
Activity holidays are more popular than ever and Ireland is the perfect destination for horse riding holidays, with its temperate climate and safe terrain. There are equestrian centres all over Ireland, from small family farms to five star facilities, with BHS qualified trainers. Visit the discoverireland.ie website for more information.

10. Ashford Castle
The magnificent Ashford Castle in County Mayo dates back to the 13th Century, and it’s available to rent from Adams & Butler. Straight from the pages of society magazines, this is where Pierce Brosnan got married. Renting your own private castle in Ireland is the ultimate in luxury and indulgence.-TradeArabia News Service