An Emmy-winning US travel show has recently been filming in County Donegal, bringing the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this Irish region to millions of American viewers. The popular PBS series, Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi, is currently in production for its seventh season, and Donegal has been chosen as one of the key locations for the new episodes.
Mickela Mallozzi, the show’s producer and host, is known for her unique approach to travel television. She explores various destinations around the world, focusing on the local cultural and dance traditions. This distinctive angle has garnered the show a dedicated following, with over 2 million viewers tuning in for each episode.
In Donegal, Mickela and her crew have been busy capturing the essence of the region. They filmed in the picturesque village of Ardara and the serene Maghery Strand. The team also enjoyed a traditional music session at The Glen Tavern – Dinny’s, sampled award-winning seafood chowder at Nancy’s Barn in Ballyliffin, and cycled around Malin Head using electric bikes from GrassRoutes Electric Bike Adventures. Their accommodation for this leg of the journey was Teac Jack in Glassagh.
Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland’s Head of North America, expressed her excitement about the show’s presence in Donegal. “We are thrilled that Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi is filming in the North West this week. It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase our beautiful scenery, rich music, and dance traditions to a vast audience across the US. The publicity value of a TV programme like this is immense – it’s an excellent way to highlight Ireland and inspire American holidaymakers to visit and experience the destination for themselves.”
The filming in Donegal is part of a broader effort to capture the cultural richness of Ireland. The crew is also working on episodes in Northern Ireland, featuring locations such as The Ebrington Hotel with chef Noel McMeel, the Giant’s Causeway, the new McConnell’s Distillery and Visitor Experience in Crumlin Road Gaol, and the Oh Yeah Music Centre.
The new season of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi will consist of three 30-minute episodes dedicated to Ireland, set to air on PBS next spring. This exposure is expected to significantly boost interest in Ireland as a travel destination among American audiences.
Mickela Mallozzi’s journey through Donegal and other parts of Ireland is not just about showcasing the scenic beauty but also about delving into the heart of Irish culture. Her interactions with local musicians, chefs, and artisans provide viewers with an authentic taste of what makes Ireland unique.
The impact of such a high-profile travel show cannot be overstated. It serves as a powerful promotional tool for Tourism Ireland, helping to attract visitors from the US and beyond. The show’s focus on cultural and dance traditions aligns perfectly with Ireland’s tourism strategy, which aims to highlight the country’s rich heritage and vibrant contemporary culture.
As the crew wraps up their filming in Donegal, the anticipation for the new season of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi continues to build. Viewers can look forward to an immersive experience that brings the magic of Ireland into their living rooms, inspiring many to plan their own adventures to this enchanting part of the world.
The collaboration between the show and Tourism Ireland underscores the importance of media in promoting travel destinations. By featuring Donegal and other Irish locations, Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi is helping to put Ireland on the map for millions of potential visitors.
In conclusion, the filming of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi in Donegal is a significant event for both the show and the region. It offers a unique opportunity to showcase the beauty and cultural richness of Donegal to a wide audience, potentially boosting tourism and bringing more visitors to experience the magic of Ireland firsthand.
