Ireland is 'the friendliest country in the world'

Those who consider a warm welcome and a reluctant goodbye as important elements of their holiday might be interested to learn the results of a new poll.

Irish people have been voted as the friendliest in the world by the survey, suggesting that travellers looking for a good craic could do far worse than head to the Emerald Isle.

The honour was bestowed upon the Irish by travel guide publisher Lonely Planet, which questioned travellers in order to compile its Bluelist 2008.

According to the Bluelist, the troubles which Ireland has survived in previous centuries has not dented the nation's spirit.

"Centuries of turmoil, conquest and famine - and subsequent immigration - have certainly taken their toll on the Irish," said the guide.

"It's left them with a deliciously dark sense of humour."

The Irish were also described as being particularly welcoming to strangers - a trait that is sure to entice further those planning a trip to the country.

Other nations picked out by Lonely Planet for their friendliness to visitors included Vietnam, Turkey and Samoa.

One event at which visitors are sure to receive a raucous welcome from their hosts is the Great Irish Beer Festival, taking place on October 20th, according to Discover Ireland.