Tourism Ireland has launched a new app for iPhones and android devices called "Gathering Gestures," which aims to boost the international visitor experience.

The app offers a wide variety of "gestures" to ensure visitors to Ireland get more from their holiday.

It has gone live - on the international app store - and is free for people around the world to download before they arrive.

More than 500 tourism organisations from around Ireland have registered their "gestures" for the new app. The Irish Hotels Federation, B&B Ireland, Heritage Ireland, the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) and Good Food Ireland are all encouraging members to take part.

Examples of the "gestures" include: a complimentary tour of Kenmare in a 1936 vintage Buick; a free seaweed bath for anyone doing a walking or cycling tour which passes through or stays in Leenane; complimentary tea or coffee and home baking on arrival at B&B Ireland homes; and a complimentary "Gathering" cocktail or mocktail at the Ice House Hotel in Ballina.

Other added value experiences are on offer like brown bread-making demonstrations, complimentary Irish coffees and special "Gathering" value menus from RAI members.

Minister Michael Ring said: "It combines the best of Ireland's traditional hospitality and generosity with the cutting edge of modern Ireland.

"I am particularly pleased to see tourism businesses of all kinds responding to this opportunity to offer a little extra something. I would urge every business in the country dealing with tourists to come on board and offer their own free gifts to show our appreciation of our overseas visitors."