Latest news with #IdeasEngine
Irish Independent
3 days ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Innovative digital travel tool to boost Sligo tourism
This new digital tool is powered by local data and expertise along with a sprinkling of AI, and allows users to generate personalised travel itineraries for visiting Sligo. It is the first tool of its kind to be introduced anywhere in Ireland, and it marks a bold step forward in how destinations can inspire and guide potential visitors. It sits on the main website and does not require any app download. The Ideas Engine uses a rich local dataset and smart AI technology to recommend experiences, attractions, and events based on each user's unique interests. Whether the user is a young family, a solo adventurer, a couple on a wellness break, a group or a music lover planning a trip around a festival — the platform responds in real time with a curated journey tailored to them. For the travel trade, this tool enables instant itinerary generation tailored to client profiles, event-inclusive travel planning thanks to live festival integration, wider regional representation, showcasing all parts of County Sligo and an inspiration-based sales resource for tour operators and travel advisors The Ideas Engine is also a helpful tool for locals who host friends or family, helping them suggest activities and events happening during their guests' stay — from surfing or playing golf, to walks and hikes and artisan food trails. For businesses like hotels it acts as visitor servicing tool and helps to save time at reception along with helping to inspire visitors on websites and social media. Outgoing Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr Declan Bree has welcomed its introduction and said: 'This is a transformative moment for Sligo and for tourism promotion in Ireland. The Ideas Engine reimagines how we connect with visitors — and it sets a new standard. We're proud to lead the way, thanks to the vision of our tourism team and the innovation of ATU students who helped bring it to life.' Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, Sligo is already known for its natural beauty and cultural vibrancy — and now it has the digital tools to match. The Ideas Engine is live now and available to the public and trade alike via The new initiative is already attracting a lot attention and was discussed at the National Outdoor Recreation Conference in Limerick last week.
RTÉ News
4 days ago
- Business
- RTÉ News
Innovative AI-powered tourism tool launched in Co Sligo
A new AI-powered itinerary planner for visitors to Yeats County, which marks a new approach in destination marketing in the northwest, has been launched by Sligo County Council. The 'Ideas Engine', believed to be one the first platforms of its kind by a local authority, generates a personalised itinerary when users submit information about their requirements and travel dates. It was developed in partnership with the Department of Marketing, Tourism and Sport at ATU Sligo. ATU undergraduate students helped to research, audit, organise and cross check tourism related businesses and experiences in Co Sligo. Sligo County Council Cathaoirleach Declan Bree said the Ideas Engine is a "fantastic innovation" helping to promote the county. He said it will help both locals and visitors to enjoy the county's offering and added that businesses and experiences will "benefit from extra attention and footfall". The platform powered by local data and AI technology (andcan be accessed on incorporates festivals and events as well as attractions, activities and hospitality offerings. Sligo County Council Tourism Officer Aidan McCormack said the ATU students contributed significantly to the platform's marketing and the ongoing improvements. "The staff of ATU provided incredible support, particularly Dr Mary McGuckin and helped provide the undergraduate students with experience of a real-world project," he said. Mr McCormack said the new platform has been embraced by hotels, attractions and experiences, who help to promote it across "booking confirmation emails, on their websites and in person including at hotel reception desks and TVs in hotel rooms". The platform covers a plethora of amenities including Sligo Folk Park, the National Surf Centre, the National Mountain Bike Centre, Sligo Food Trail and Lissadell House. Mr McCormack said it allows the local authority to platform tourist offerings in an equitable and balanced way while giving people the information they require in one place. He said it is as valuable for local people as it is for visitors, "particularly those who have friends or family visiting or parents entertaining kids during the summer holidays."
