The Aran Islands and the Burren will feature in two separate episodes of the new season of “No Place Like Home” on RTÉ One.
The second episode, airing this Sunday, will see host Kathryn Thomas take in the sights of Inis Mór, go diving in the Atlantic Ocean and glamp overnight on the island; the piece will be accompanied by a live segment airing from the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) in Dublin.
In the third episode on September 5, Kathryn explores the Burren and greater Clare, visiting Doolin Cave and swimming at Spanish Point, while a live section will air from the Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens in Co Waterford.
Niall Tracey, Director of Marketing at Fáilte Ireland, said: “The “No Place Like Home” series proved extremely popular last year and it is fantastic to be collaborating with RTÉ once again, to encourage people to take breaks at home this autumn. The domestic market will be key over the coming months and Fáilte Ireland is continuing to drive domestic demand for the shoulder season. “No Place Like Home” will showcase destinations and tourism businesses across Ireland and remind Irish people to discover the joy of holidaying at home.”
The aim of the show is to emphasise that holidaying in Ireland is a viable option for natives, building on the success of Fáilte Ireland’s current “Keep Discovering” domestic marketing campaign.
This year, Kathryn Thomas explores the Wild Atlantic Way and special guests, including Tolü Makay and Maïa Dunphy will visit destinations from Cork City to Kilkenny, the Shannon and Dublin, with each also episode featuring live segments from locations across the island.
Last Sunday, Kathryn started her journey at the most northerly point on the island of Ireland, Malin Head, before making her way down the coast to explore the beaches of Donegal, visit the Wild Ireland Sanctuary and take her daughter Ellie across the Fairy Bridges in Bundoran.
The premiere also featured a live segment from Blacksod Lighthouse in County Mayo.
Gerry McGuinness, RTÉ Commercial Partnerships Manager commented, “It’s great to see the return of “No Place Like Home” after the success of the first series.
“This year, Kathryn Thomas will once again show RTÉ One viewers the endless opportunities to holiday at home and in particular the magical journey from Malin to Mizen Head. With the support of Discover Ireland, RTÉ will entertain viewers and entice them to visit the dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches Ireland has to offer.”
The final episode will show on September 12, showcasing destinations across West Cork as Kathryn goes kayaking in Baltimore and visits Sherkin Island, Inis Beg, Ballydehob and Mizen Head, with a live segment from Lough Key Forest Park in Roscommon.
by Conor Clohessy