Business in the Emerald Isle - A Sample Itinerary

Welcome to Ireland, where tradition, innovation and sustainability intersect. In Dublin, a dynamic tech hub, global giants and startups are advancing ESG initiatives. In between visits, explore the capital’s historic landmarks, vibrant streets and cozy cafés or lively pubs. If you’re interested in a dual-destination program, head to nearby Belfast, which blends history and innovation, with organizations championing impactful ESG practices. Discover Titanic Belfast, colorful neighborhoods and stunning landscapes while enjoying the city’s rich culture and renowned music scene.

* Please note that this is only a sample itinerary for a full-time MBA group. All of our itineraries are tailor-made and can accommodate any academic level and theme. All itineraries are subject to change.

Day 1:  Sat July 6 welcome to Ireland
arrive in Dublin
intercity transfers arrive in Dublin
Own arrangements

meet ISP representative at the airport

own arrangements
transfer to hotel, check-in
transportation transfer to hotel, check-in
bus transfer
lunch: own arrangements
meals lunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
meet in hotel lobby, depart for walking tour
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for walking tour
afternoon Vikings, risings, and high-rises - Dublin from past to present
cultural event Vikings, risings, and high-rises - Dublin from past to present

Discover 1000 years of history through taking in some of Dublin's most iconic landmarks and artefacts. With your expert guide, visit St Patrick's Cathedral, Trinity College, and its historic library with the famous Book of Kells.

walk
rest of the day at leisure
rest of the day at leisure
Day 2:  Sun July 7 day trip to Wicklow
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
meet in hotel lobby, depart for day trip
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for day trip
bus full day
morning full-day trip to Wicklow County
cultural event full-day trip to Wicklow County

Visit the famous Glendalough Monastery, famed for its beautiful and historic scenery and one of Ireland's most impressive clusters of medieval monastic monuments. Enjoy the beautiful Powerscourt Gardens and picturesque villages such as Rathdrum and Roundwood.

group lunch in Wicklow
meals group lunch in Wicklow
restaurant
free time to relax & freshen up before dinner
free time to relax & freshen up before dinner
meet in hotel lobby, depart for welcome dinner
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for welcome dinner
bus transfer
evening welcome dinner with Irish music show
meals welcome dinner with Irish music show

Enjoy a show of traditional Irish music, dance and song, alongside an excellent introduction to its famous cuisine. Stews, pies and simple fare, Irish cuisine is all about a warm welcome and a full belly. Sit back, relax and savour your first taste of Ireland.

restaurant
Day 3:  Mon July 8 the Irish advantage
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
meet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
bus full day
morning tax haven or business friendly - Ireland's corporate taxation in focus
visit tax haven or business friendly - Ireland's corporate taxation in focus Irish Industrial Development Agency (IDA)

Why did the Irish government refuse to accept an EU ruling that Apple owed €13 billion in unpaid taxes in 2016, and instead sided with Apple in appealing against it. This case is symbolic of Ireland's approach to corporate tax. Visit one of Ireland's central financial institutions to deep dive into the country's unique and sometimes controversial approach to taxation and economic development.

presentation, discussion
lunch: own arrangements
meals lunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon sticking to your roots in craft industries
experiential learning sticking to your roots in craft industries Teeling Whiskey Co.

Breweries and distilleries represent possibly Ireland's most famous areas of expertise, with Irish drinks brands recognised and exported around the world. Visit a family-run drinks producer that keeps heritage and tradition at the heart of its business to learn more about the value of sticking to your roots in business.

management presentation, discussion, tour of facilities, product tasting
rest of the day at leisure
rest of the day at leisure
Day 4:  Tue July 9 Irish stories of doing business
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
meet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
bus full day
morning a world where no good food goes to waste
visit a world where no good food goes to waste FoodCloud

Food waste has become a hot topic in recent years due to its significant environmental, social, and economic impacts. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, approximately one-third of all food produced globally is wasted annually, which amounts to 1.3 billion tons of food worth about $1 trillion. food waste is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach to address. This can include strategies such as reducing food waste at the production and retail level, improving distribution systems to ensure that excess food reaches those in need, and educating individuals and households about the importance of reducing food waste in their own lives.

management presentation, discussion, tour of facilities
FoodCloud, Unit 8 Broomhill Business Park, Broomhill Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24
lunch: own arrangements
meals lunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon from local to global - irish marketing success story
visit from local to global - irish marketing success story Droga5 Dublin

For decades, a select few creative agencies in Dublin have been a driving force in the marketing and communication industry. With a global presence and a reputation for innovative campaigns, they've consistently shaped the narrative for a diverse range of clients. Their expertise spans various sectors, from advertising and public relations to digital and social media, offering comprehensive solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. Today we'll visit one of the leading marketing agencies, renowned around Ireland and the UK for their innovative approaches and often hard-hitting marketing campaigns for huge players in the Irish business world.

management presentation, discussion
late afternoon A lovely day for a Guinness
cultural event A lovely day for a Guinness

Visit one of the top touristic attractions in Europe to learn about Guinness - discover the unique 9000 years lease, and as you walk through each floor learn about the ingredients and the chemical process which leads to the creation of the specific taste. Observe the logistics process of delivering Guinness around the world as well as a distinctive marketing strategy. Finish the experience by enjoying the "360°" view of Dublin in the Gravity Bar.

rest of the day at leisure
rest of the day at leisure
Day 5:  Wed July 10 heading north
breakfast
breakfast
meet in hotel lobby,check out, load luggage onto bus
transportation meet in hotel lobby,check out, load luggage onto bus

dress code: casual

morning Europe's tech headquarters
visit Europe's tech headquarters IBM Ireland

Why are tech firms in particular so likely to set up regional or international headquarters in Dublin? Hear from a leading global technology company about the benefits of establishing their own R&D operations in Dublin, and the cutting edge technologies that are being developed in Ireland.

presentation, discussion, tour of premises
lunch: own arrangements
meals lunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
transfer to Belfast (aprox 3 hours)
intercity transfers transfer to Belfast (aprox 3 hours)
bus
arrive at hotel, check in
transportation arrive at hotel, check in
meet in hotel lobby, depart for city tour
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for city tour
bus/cab
afternoon Belfast & Troubles tour
cultural event Belfast & Troubles tour

Travel between multiple peacelines and walls on an eye opening tour of discovery through the once no go areas and learn of Belfast's troubled past and rich shared history. Visit both Catholic and Protestant areas to get a balanced understanding of the past. You will be fully guided by a driver who worked Belfast's streets during an era known as the Troubles.

bus/cab
free to relax & explore the city
free to relax & explore the city
Day 6:  Thu July 11 the sea at the core of the city
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
meet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for visit

dress code: business casual, comfortable shoes

bus full day
morning bustling Belfast's maritime majesty
visit bustling Belfast's maritime majesty Belfast Harbour

Belfast's modern harbour dates back to 1847, but the natural harbour has been a center for trade for many centuries before then. Used by the British empire and eventually the modern United Kingdom as both a commercial and military port, Belfast was commonly understood to be one of the most important British shipping facilities across the empire. Today, we'll dive into Belfast's maritime heartbeat with an exclusive visit to Belfast Harbour. Explore the bustling hub of global trade, witnessing firsthand the intricate dance of shipping and export activities. From container terminals to expansive docks, this experience offers a close-up look at the vital role Belfast plays in international commerce. Join us for an illuminating excursion into the heart of Belfast's maritime prowess.

management presentation, discussion, tour of facilities
group lunch
meals group lunch
afternoon HD trip to  Giant's Causeway
cultural event HD trip to Giant's Causeway

Marvel at the majesty and mystery of the Giants Causeways, at the heart of one of Europe's most magnificent coastlines its unique rock formations have, for millions of years, stood as a natural rampart against the unbridled ferocity of Atlantic storms. Get intrigued and inspired by the rugged symmetry of the columns. Stroll on the Giants Causeway and experience a voyage back in time.

rest of the day at leisure
rest of the day at leisure
Day 7:  Fri July 12 green innovations of the green shores
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
meet in hotel lobby, depart for visits
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for visits
public transport/walk
morning green innovations
visit green innovations Catagen

Visit a company that is is renowned for its innovative approach to decarbonization technology. Originally established to test catalytic converters, it has evolved to develop advanced solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Discuss how cutting-edge research and sustainable practices position them as a leader in the transition to net-zero carbon emissions.

management presentation, tour of facilities
lunch: own arrangements
meals lunch: own arrangements
afternoon Titanic shipyards tour
cultural event Titanic shipyards tour

Embark on a captivating journey through Belfast's historic shipyards, where the monumental tale of the Titanic unfolds. Explore the birthplace of this iconic vessel, witnessing the craftsmanship and engineering feats that went into its creation. Immerse yourself in the stories of the shipbuilders and the passengers, gaining a poignant perspective on the tragic yet compelling history of the Titanic.

meet in hotel lobby, depart for farewell dinner
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for farewell dinner
public transport/walk
evening farewell dinner with traditional pub fare
meals farewell dinner with traditional pub fare

Time to wrap up your Irish experience with one final evening of hospitality and good cheer. Enjoy an authentic experience of local classic dishes and share your stories & reflections from the week. Sláinte!

restaurant
Day 8:  Sat July 13 depart for US
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
check out, transfer to the airport
transportation check out, transfer to the airport
bus transfer
depart for US
intercity transfers depart for US
own arrangements