AN influx of Irish visitors is expected in the North-East following a marketing campaign.
Newcastle Gateshead Initiative has been promoting the area to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Flybe and easyJet airlines have also been running free flight offers to encourage Irish tourists.
Newcastle Gateshead Initiative chief executive Neil Rami, said: "Irish people are now visiting NewcastleGateshead in large numbers because it is so easy to get here.
"But they are also coming because they love the vibrancy of the city, its culture, distinctive carnival atmosphere and the warm welcome."
Newcastle and Gateshead was voted England's best short break destination by 24,000 Guardian and Observer readers.
Visitors figures have increased by about half a million between 2001 and 2002.
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