Emerald isle's shiny allure

"We realize they have specific dietary needs and usually prefer Chinese food while traveling, and we are very willing to meeting these requirements," Gibbons says.

Ireland has a significant Chinese population and a wide variety of Chinese restaurants, which are popular with both residents and Chinese visitors, he adds.

Chinese marketing materials, websites and staff that speak the language are all available to serve the needs of Chinese visitors.

Moreover, Tourism Ireland has advised hotels and B&Bs targeting Chinese visitors to offer free Wi-Fi, green tea, toiletries and slippers in the room, Gibbons says.

A brochure with information on Unique Irish Shopping brands has recently been launched and will also be available in Chinese. Information on how to do tax refunds will also be offered to help Chinese visitors who love to shop.

Tourism Ireland is currently working on China Ready training programs and several local providers have already completed similar training programs, learning about Chinese language, culture, cuisine and preferences, according to Gibbons.

There are currently no direct flights between the Chinese mainland and Ireland, or between Hong Kong and Ireland, though negotiations are well under way with a major carrier for such a connection, Gibbons says.

Air China, China Eastern, China Southern Airlines, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic all fly direct from China to the UK, where Chinese can make easy connections to Ireland. Many airlines have connecting flights to the country through European hubs such as KLM through Amsterdam, Air France through Paris and Lufthansa through Frankfurt.

Etihad Airways operates from Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Hong Kong to Dublin, via Abu Dhabi. Emirates connect China and Dublin with Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Zhengzhou in Henan province and Hong Kong, via Dubai.