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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Lifestyle
Sarah Barrett

Aer Lingus launches return of popular Dublin to Connecticut route

Aerlingus have announced the relaunch of its direct service from Dublin to Connecticut in the USA.

Connecticut is halfway between Boston and New York and the non-stop flight will take travellers from Dublin to Hartford, Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport.

The first people came to the area that’s now Connecticut more than 10,000 years ago.

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Several thousand years later, Native American tribes including the Mohegan, Pequot, and Niantic lived in the region.

Connecticut earned its nickname "the Constitution State" because it’s home to what some consider the United States’ first written constitution: the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut, adopted in 1639.

To mark the return of the route, the Connecticut Office of Tourism, a division of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, celebrated the occasion on Wednesday, March 22, with an event at Dublin’s Epic The Irish Emigration Museum.

CTVisit Aer Lingus Event (Zapwater Communications)

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed music from DJ Marty Guilfoyle while being immersed in the diverse and inclusive experience Connecticut has to offer

Representatives from the U.S. Embassy in Ireland, Visit USA, Aer Lingus, Connecticut Airport Authority, Connecticut Tourism Council and Bradley International Airport were in attendance with Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont kicking off the relaunch with a video welcoming guests to visit the state.

There were speeches from Connecticut Office of Tourism Director Noelle P. Stevenson, Board Chair of the Connecticut Airport Authority and Tourism Council member Tony Sheridan and Aer Lingus Head of Global Leisure Sales Jenny Rafter.

CTVisit Aer Lingus Event (Zapwater Communications)

Speaking on the return of the service, Director for the Connecticut Office of Tourism, Noelle P. Stevenson said: .“It was an honour to welcome Ireland’s travel industry to explore Connecticut,”.

“We brought Connecticut to Ireland through an immersive 24 digital gigantic screen experience. This exclusive event provided the opportunity to showcase the destination in a very live format.

“The relaunch of this flight opens the door to international travellers – from 22 cities in 7 countries – to experience an energy in Connecticut that’s like nowhere else.

The relaunch of Aer Lingus’ nonstop flight from Dublin Ireland to Hartford, Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport was marked on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 with an event at Dublin’s Epic The Irish Emigration Museum. (Zapwater Communications)

“Located in the heart of New England, Connecticut is a world-class destination with a vibrant arts & culture scene, acclaimed music & theatre, award-winning culinary, fashion, city and country life, and a playground for abundant outdoor adventure. There is an undeniable vibe and diversity in Connecticut and that was very much felt through this evening’s event.”

What is there to do and see in Connecticut?

From trail to coast, Fairfield County brings all the chill vibes you need. Hike with llamas, sip wine, see art, cruise The Sound, pamper yourself, and stroll walkable main streets.

Rowanwood Farm

Begin your trip with something truly unique – llama hiking! Pair up with one of these gentle creatures for a peaceful stroll through nature.

After, find even more relaxation at Newtown Salt Spa where you'll chill in a room filled with calming and healing Himalayan salt.

Aquila’s Nest Vineyards

Stop by Aquila’s Nest Vineyards, an innovative, experience-focused winery, tasting room and event venue on a 40-acre estate.

Hang in a 75-seat wine bar and tasting room with a baby grand piano, and an outdoor seating terrace overlooking the vineyards. In some seasons, you can even rent private pergolas and fire pits.

The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

Next, explore The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, one of the few non-collecting contemporary art museums in the United States, playing an important role in the exhibition of cutting-edge art.

While in the area, check out the Ridgefield Cultural District for live theatres, museums, award-winning restaurants, art galleries, shops, a park with an accessible playground, formal gardens, and free concerts. Then stay over at The West Lane Inn.

Spa at Delamar Greenwich Harbor

The next day, pamper yourself at Spa at Delamar Greenwich Harbor. Enjoy a wide array of custom treatments including nail services, waxing, facials, massage, and body treatments by Biologique Recherche and Valmont.

SoundWaters

Then sail Long Island Sound aboard the 80′ schooner, SoundWaters for a two-hour sunset or afternoon sail. And after all that time on the sea, check into The Stamford Hotel or The Llyod.

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

Come nose-to-nose with sharks, seals, river otters, sea turtles, jellies, and other amazing animals at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk — plus enjoy public cruises, hands-on touch tanks, and 4D theater. After, sit down at farm-chic restaurant, The Tavern at GrayBarns.

Downtown Westport

Browse downtown Westport for high-end boutiques and cosmetics, name brand stores, and restaurants – all with a waterfront backdrop. While in the area, don’t miss a trip to The Collective West, owned by celebrity designer Christian Siriano.

You can find out more at https://www.ctvisit.com/getaways/arts-eats-and-ease-coast and Aerlingus

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