Confidence in the tourism industry is at its highest level in years with almost all accommodation providers expecting to increase or maintain business in 2014.
Visitor numbers grew by 7% overall last year - while the key North American market grew by 15%.
The Gathering initiative is credited with bringing in high numbers of US visitors.
"2013 was a good year," said CEO of Failte Ireland, Shaun Quinn. "The industry is very optimistic for 2014 - probably the most optimistic it has ever been for several years."