Galway City

Galway City, the capital of Connaught, is the third largest city in the Republic of Ireland after Dublin and Cork. The city has experienced very rapid growth in recent years.

Most industry and manufactories in Galway, like the rest of Ireland, are hi-tech basis (e.g. ICT, medical equipment, electronics, chemicals, etc.) due to the Celtic Tiger economic boom. Tourism is also of major importance to the city, which had over 2.1 million visitors in 2000, and generated revenue of over €400 million.

Galway is nicknamed Ireland's Cultural Heart (Croí Cultúrtha na hÉireann) and is renowned for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals, celebrations and events.

One such event is the Volvo Ocean Race. Galway is one of the stopovers, hosting sailing teams from all over the world including team Green Dragon, a joint Irish/China team.