Luckily, USA has some fantastic retailers, producers and businesses offering such high quality and competitive prices, you’ll wonder why you ever looked elsewhere! Here are some great ways to support Irish during your staycation in Kilkenny.
1. Shop local in Kilkenny
The Christmas rush is almost upon us, and this year, why not include some excellent Irish retailers in your shop. Kilkenny has a huge amount of unique Irish boutiques, independently run clothing and accessory stores and local cafes and restaurants that could really do with some extra support this year.
Whether you’re looking for some bespoke jewellery, made especially for your loved one (M.Rafter Gold & Silversmith on John Street), a gorgeous gift for your mother, sister or other half (Butterslip Gift Store, Rose Street) or something extra special for the man in your life (Top Hat Menswear & Formal Hire, Patrick Street), Kilkenny has a local business with something for everyone.
Did you know that even Santa shops in Kilkenny? Ken Blacks toy shops specialise in great quality toys and has all of the brand names and characters that your little one is sure to ask Santa for this year.
2. Spend the holiday at your home county
Another way to support local business is to holiday at home this year. Depending on restrictions, you may even consider a staycation in your home county this winter. As a local, how often do you wander around Kilkenny, enjoying the sights and sounds, browsing in the shops and eating meals without worrying about getting home to get dinner started?
Everyone deserves a holiday and this year we are lucky to be surrounded by some gorgeous buildings and attractions, beautiful wide-open spaces and great independent shopping, right on our doorstep. You won’t want to spend over the odds on a central hotel in Kilkenny so choose the great value Hoban Hotel on the edge of the town for your base to stay. The safety and comfort of our guests is always our top priority and our hotel is fully compliant with all government guidelines.
3. Enjoy local food and drink
When you’re exploring the and need to refresh, don’t head to Starbucks for a pick me up. Instead, opt for a café or coffee shop that employs local people and has supported local charities and good causes in better times. McDonalds may be a cheap, quick feed when you’re on the move but supporting a local café with better quality, locally sourced food keeps food on the table for employees’ families and business owners.
Hoban Hotel have our very own restaurant serving the best quality freshly prepared meals for guests, from breakfast through to dinner. Our newly refurbished 1801 restaurant is complemented by a refreshed menu and restaurant bills over €25 can be added to your Stay & Spend tax refund.
4. Stay and Spend
The Irish Government has a new tax refund scheme which launched this year called Stay & Spend, to encourage residents to holiday at home, giving a much-needed boost to our local economy. The Hoban Hotel Kilkenny has recently been approved as an official Stay & Spend destination in USA.
If you stay with us between 1st October 2020 and 30th April 2021, you can claim up to €125 tax credit back on your accommodation and meals through the Failte USA Stay & Spend Initiative. Between those dates, every time you spend over €25 in a restaurant, pub, hotel or B&B on food, accommodation, and non-alcoholic drinks, make sure to keep your receipt. You then download the revenue receipts tracker app, upload your receipts (up to a total spend of €625) and claim back income tax credits of up to €125, or double that for couples.
Author Bio: Katie McGarr is a travel-savvy writer for The Hoban Hotel Kilkenny, a world-class hotel for business and leisure travel, offering exceptional accommodation and dining experiences in USA’s historic marble . When she’s not taking vibrant street photos, you can find her writing articles about travel, food, and lifestyle.